Ariel Alvaro Holan (born 28 March 1975) is an Argentine professional football manager and former player. He is best known for managing several top‑division clubs in Argentina and Chile, most notably River Plate and Independiente.
Early life and playing career
Holan was born in Buenos Aires Province, Argentina. He played as a forward, beginning his senior career with Club Atlético Banfield in the early 1990s. His playing career was brief and he retired without notable achievements at the professional level.
Coaching career
Early roles
After retiring as a player, Holan pursued a coaching path, initially serving as an assistant manager at Banfield (2007–2011) under Ricardo Caruso Lombardi. He later worked in the technical staff of various Argentine clubs, developing a reputation for incorporating scientific and analytical methods into training.
Independiente (first spell, 2014–2015)
Holan was appointed head coach of Club Atlético Independiente in July 2014. He guided the team to promotion from the Primera B Nacional to the Argentine Primera División in the 2014 season, securing the club’s immediate return to the top flight after a brief relegation.
Chile: O'Higgins and Universidad Católica (2015–2017)
Holan moved to Chile in 2015, taking charge of O'Higgins F.C. for the 2015–2016 season. He subsequently became manager of Universidad Católica, where he won the 2016 Chilean Primera División title.
Independiente (second spell, 2017–2018)
Returning to Independiente in 2017, Holan led the team to a commendable performance in the 2017 Copa Sudamericana, reaching the knockout stage. He left the club in early 2018.
River Plate (2019–2021)
In February 2019, Holan was appointed head coach of Club Atlético River Plate. Under his leadership, River won the 2019 Copa Argentina and the 2020 Supercopa Argentina. The team also reached the final of the 2019 Copa Libertadores, finishing as runners‑up. Holan resigned in March 2021 after a series of mixed domestic results.
Universidad de Chile (2022)
Holan signed with Universidad de Chile in January 2022. He departed the club in August 2022 following a period of unsatisfactory results.
Coaching style and reputation
Holan is recognized for his emphasis on tactical flexibility, rigorous physical preparation, and the integration of data analysis and sports science into team preparation. His approach has often been described as innovative within South American football circles.
Personal life
Holan holds a degree in Physical Education and has completed multiple coaching certifications, including the Argentine Football Association’s highest coaching licence.
References
- Argentine Football Association (AFA) records.
- Club Atlético River Plate official communications.
- Universidad Católica (Chile) historical archives.
- Press releases from Club Atlético Independiente.
Note: Information reflects publicly available and verifiable sources up to 2023.
