The ongoing sports crisis at River Plate, marked by 12 losses in the last 20 matches and the resignation of coach Marcelo Gallardo, is sparking a multitude of reactions from fans and commentators alike. While some have directed their frustration towards the players or the departed coach, others have controversially linked the team's woes to the recently unveiled statue of Gallardo, created by artist Mercedes Savall. This statue, inaugurated on May 27, 2023, coincided with a time when River Plate was performing well under coach Martín Demichelis, raising eyebrows when its artistic details sparked both laughter and scandal among the fans.

Mercedes Savall, a fervent supporter of River Plate and the statue's creator, has been vocal in defending her work against accusations that it is 'mufa' (a Spanish colloquial term implying bad luck). In her passionate remarks, she expressed deep emotional ties to the project, highlighting the time, health, and resources she dedicated to bringing the statue to life. The unveiling of the statue became a memorable event, attended by Gallardo himself, yet the discussion has since turned sour as critics have sought to find a scapegoat for the team's recent underperformance, ironically attributing it to her artistic creation.

Amidst this furor, Savall's sentiments reflect the profound disappointment felt by many fans regarding Gallardo's departure and the team's struggles. Her emotional state, described as 'sad and angry,' underscores the impact that the ongoing crisis has not only on players and management but also on dedicated supporters who have invested emotionally and personally in the team's narrative. The story of Savall and the statue serves as a poignant reminder of the intertwined relationship between art, sports, and fan sentiment, particularly in turbulent times for River Plate.