Former Boca Juniors goalkeeper Carlos Navarro Montoya was accused on April 6 by the owners of a restaurant in Tandil of owing a large sum accumulated during his time as coach of Santamarina.
According to the restaurant owners, Navarro Montoya and members of his coaching staff allegedly ate at their establishment for several months without paying, resulting in a debt close to 10 million pesos. They said that at first, the coach asked for “trust” and promised he would pay later, even suggesting that the club would cover the expenses.
The proprietors stated they have signed receipts, consumption records, and video evidence to support their claim. “He spent a year eating for free,” they said, emphasizing that no one has settled the debt so far. The complaint is expected to be filed by attorney Ignacio Barrios and could potentially lead to fraud charges. However, those affected clarified that their main goal is simply to recover the money owed.
Navarro Montoya denied these accusations and insisted there was an agreement with Club Santamarina, which he held responsible for payment. “The club did not pay the restaurant or me or my coaching staff. We are in litigation,” he said.
He also explained that signing receipts was part of internal control procedures and served as proof of consumption but maintained that he should not be personally liable for payment obligations. The dispute began after his brief tenure as head coach at Santamarina, where he managed only seven matches before leaving his post in 2025. Now, this controversy threatens to overshadow his sporting career as it may proceed through legal channels.
