SANTIAGO, March 20 (Xinhua) -- Former Real Madrid and Argentina international midfielder Fernando Gago has been appointed manager of Universidad de Chile for the rest of the 2026 season, the Santiago club said on Friday.

The 39-year-old replaces compatriot Francisco Meneghini, who was sacked earlier this month amid a poor run of results.

"Following a thorough evaluation, our board unanimously approved his appointment as the new head coach of La U, trusting in his abilities and leadership to guide the sporting project and achieve the season's objectives," read a statement on the club's website.

Universidad is currently eighth in Chile's top-flight standings with 10 points, five behind leader Colo-Colo.

Gago has been out of work since parting ways with Mexico's Necaxa in November.

His managerial career has also included spells at Boca Juniors, Aldosivi, Racing and Guadalajara. ■