Ecuador eyes Luis Zubeldía as its next coach for the 2030 World Cup qualifying campaign
Ecuador, known as La Tricolor, is awaiting confirmation that Luis Zubeldía, current Fluminense manager, will become its new head coach. The Ecuadorian Football Federation (FEF) has reportedly advanced talks to have the Argentine take charge before his contract ends in December 2026. Currently, Ecuador sits 3rd in the World Cup standings with 4 points after 1 win, 1 draw and 1 loss.
Who is Luis Zubeldía?
Luis Zubeldía was born on January 13, 1981 in Santa Rosa, Argentina. After retiring as a player at 23 due to a knee injury, he became one of the youngest coaches in Argentina’s top flight, taking over Lanús at 27. His stint at Barcelona SC in 2011 left a competitive squad that won the title months later, and his time at Liga de Quito featured an unforgettable 2015 campaign and a Copa Sudamericana triumph in 2023. In 2024 he assumed the reins at Fluminense, where he remains active.
Why does the FEF want him now?
Zubeldía’s knowledge of Ecuadorian football runs deep: he has coached both Barcelona SC and Liga de Quito, leaving significant marks at each club. He also served as assistant to Carlos Gruezo, giving him direct insight into local talent. The federation seeks an offensive, proactive style, and Zubeldía promises a leading‑edge team. Yet his contract with Fluminense until December 2026 poses a hurdle the FEF aims to clear quickly so the coach can start before the next qualifying window.
What challenges does Ecuador face?
The national side entered its latest qualifier with a 2‑0 loss to Mexico (2026‑07‑01) and a recent form of 1 win, 2 draws and 2 losses (LLWDD, the last two matches were defeats). Ecuador needs to reverse that trend and close the 2‑point gap with group leaders Germany. Zubeldía must adapt his philosophy to a squad that has shown defensive fragility (2 goals scored, 2 conceded, goal difference 0) and motivate players to improve consistency in upcoming games.
What’s the next step?
If the FEF can free Zubeldía before the end of August, the Argentine coach will begin work with La Tricolor and ready the team for decisive fixtures. The expectation is that his club experience in Ecuador and offensive vision will spark an immediate uplift, helping Ecuador get back on a winning path and move closer to qualifying for the 2026 World Cup and, ultimately, the 2030 edition.
