QUITO, Ecuador -- Marcelo Gallardo, one of the most decorated coaches in Argentine league history, has agreed to manage Ecuador ahead of the 2030 World Cup. The Ecuadorian Football Federation announced late Sunday that the 50-year-old Gallardo, nicknamed "Muñeco," will replace compatriot Gabriel Beccacece, who led "La Tri" to the Round of 32 at the last World Cup.

Gallardo takes the job after stepping down from a second stint with Argentina's River Plate in February, where he won seven domestic titles -- including the 2021 league championship -- plus two Copa Libertadores trophies and a Copa Sudamericana.

"We have a generation that competes at the highest level," federation president Francisco Egas said. "We have talent, structure, and ambition, and we believe this national team is ready to take the next step."

Gallardo could debut Sept. 24 against South Korea on an Asian tour. Beyond qualifying for the 2030 World Cup -- with opening matches in Uruguay, Argentina, and Paraguay -- another challenge awaits in the 2028 Copa América.