Boca Juniors manager Rodolfo Arruabarrena is weighing a sweeping squad rotation ahead of the team’s upcoming Torneo Clausura fixture against Gimnasia de Mendoza, balancing domestic aspirations with a crucial Copa Sudamericana quarterfinal clash.
Following a demanding Copa Argentina victory over Vélez Sarsfield, the squad traveled directly to the Cuyo region to prepare for the eighth round of the domestic tournament.
Leandro Paredes Sidelined by Muscle Strain
The primary absence for the upcoming fixture is team captain Leandro Paredes. Medical staff elected to preserve him rather than risk a more severe tear, keeping him out of the trip to Mendoza so he can target a recovery in time for the continental fixture.
In addition to Paredes, fellow midfielder Milton Delgado will also miss the match due to physical discomfort. These two absences significantly limit the standard options in the center of the pitch, requiring Arruabarrena to test new midfield combinations.
Tactical Adjustments and Probable Starting Lineup
To offset the physical toll of recent matches, the coaching staff plans to deploy several players who have seen limited minutes.
In defense, Álvaro Montero is expected to retain his spot in goal. The backline features notable alterations, with Marco Pellegrino returning to the central defense alongside Nicolás Figal. Depending on tactical tweaks, the flanks could feature Dylan Gorosito and young defender Matías Satas or Lautaro Blanco, according to the varying lineup projections reported across outlets.
The midfield will likely feature youth product Camilo Rey Domenech anchoring the central zone, supported by options such as Santiago Ascacíbar, Tomás Belmonte, Williams Alarcón, and Kevin Zenón. Further up the pitch, Ecuadorian forward Enner Valencia is slated to make his first start since joining the club, spearheading an attacking line that could also include Alan Velasco, Carlos Palacios, and Sebastián Villa or Leonel Flores.
Balancing Domestic Ambitions and Continental Priorities
The immediate horizon for Boca Juniors includes a high-stakes meeting with São Paulo at La Bombonera for the first leg of the Copa Sudamericana quarterfinals. While the technical staff aims to protect foundational players from injury, the club remains focused on maintaining its standing in the Torneo Clausura standings.
The match against Gimnasia de Mendoza kicks off this Saturday. Subsequent official updates regarding the final starting XI and squad availability will be issued by the club ahead of the weekend fixture.
