Rotating the squad backfired for Boca, as captain Leandro Paredes will miss both legs of the Sudamericana semi‑final against Vasco da Gama. The loss hurts not only the midfield but the entire starting eleven.
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Coach Rodolfo Arruabarrena told reporters that Paredes needs further tests, but based on his appearance he’ll be unavailable for Tuesday. The medical report confirms a grade‑2 tear in the right hamstring, incurred after a mid‑field pass attempt.
Reporter Damián Villagra noted on X that Paredes’ absence creates uncertainty for the upcoming River clash at La Bombonera on November 1. The injury demands careful management, as any misstep could worsen the muscle damage and extend recovery.
Looking ahead, Paredes is set to sit out the full Vasco tie, plus fixtures versus Talleres, Independiente and possibly the River derby on Nov 1. His step‑by‑step rehabilitation will dictate whether he can return as a starter for the classic.
Seventeen minutes of play sparked the injury that now haunts Boca’s midfield. For my money, losing him at this stage is a massive blow to the team’s chances.
Additional absences further deplete Boca’s options.
Compounding the problem, five more squad members are still nursing injuries, stretching the roster thin and forcing the coach to adjust training plans starting next practice.
Currently sidelined are Tomás Aranda (fibula fracture), Alan Velasco (tear), Tomás Belmonte (outer meniscus rupture), Adam Bareiro (lumbar disc disease) and goalkeeper Agustín Marchesín (ACL rupture), prompting the signing of Álvaro Montero.