The recent anniversary of the historic final of the 2017 Copa Sudamericana rekindled hope among fans of Independent for a possible return of Esequiel Boat. The footballer, currently in Spartak Moscowshared an emblematic image on his Instagram account: he is seen kissing the ball moments before taking the decisive penalty at the Maracaná stadium against Flamengo, accompanied by the phrase: “It’s going to be repeated again. With that same shield”.
This gesture, interpreted as a sign of affection and promise, generated a strong stir in Avellaneda and fueled speculation about his future, although his immediate return seems unlikely due to his high market value and current contract in Europe.
In the context of a difficult semester for IndependentBarco’s publication took on special meaning. December 13 marked eight years since the consecration of the team led by Ariel Holan, a date that remains etched in the club’s collective memory. As usually happens on each anniversary, several former players shared memories on social networks, but Barco’s story, in which he reposted a photo originally published by a friend and accompanied by the message: “Let’s go back friend”was the one that aroused the most enthusiasm among supporters.
Barco, 26, emerged from the lower divisions of Independent and made his professional debut at the club. His performance in the Sudamericana final, where he scored one of the most celebrated goals in recent decades, consolidated his bond with the institution. In total, he played 47 official matches, scored eight goals and provided seven assists during his time with the Avellaneda team.
The forward was transferred from River Plate al Spartak Moscow in July 2024, in an operation close to the USD 16 milliona figure that currently makes any negotiation for his return difficult. Although his name usually appears in each transfer market linked to Independiente, there are no official efforts underway to finalize his return.
The reaction of the fans to Barco’s post reflects the validity of the memory of that night at the Maracaná and the expectation that the footballer will once again wear the shirt that, in his own words, he loves deeply.
