Boca Faces Turmoil Ahead of Club World Cup: Departures Loom, Coach Hunt Intensifies

Boca Juniors is heading into the 2025 Club World Cup under a cloud of uncertainty. After a crushing defeat to Independiente that ended their Torneo Apertura run, the club finds itself without a head coach, with an aging and questioned squad, and with fans demanding a major overhaul. As TyC Sports reported, although the roster for the Club World Cup is already submitted and only minor changes are allowed, deeper cuts are expected later this year.

Seven players have contracts expiring in December. Apart from captain Marcos Rojo—whose recent absence raised eyebrows—none are likely to be renewed. Frank Fabra, Sergio Romero, Cristian Lema, and Ignacio Miramón are among those with minimal game time in 2025, and all appear to be on their way out.

Several recent signings who failed to make an impact, such as Lucas Janson, Juan Barinaga, Agustín Martegani, and Brian Aguirre, are also likely to leave. Veteran Esteban Rolón and backup goalkeeper Javier García are nearing their exits too.

Luis Advíncula’s inconsistent form and injuries cast doubt over his future, while Kevin Zenón, Tomás Belmonte, Carlos Palacios, and Alan Velasco have been targets of fan frustration, despite being seen as players with potential for recovery.

The case of Edinson Cavani is emblematic. Although his leadership is unquestioned, his form has dropped sharply. He’ll still lead the team in the Club World Cup, but at 38, his long-term role is unclear.

With interim coach Mariano Herrón stepping aside, Boca is exploring options. Miguel Ángel Russo, currently at San Lorenzo, is once again a candidate, alongside Cristian González and Gustavo Quinteros. Whoever takes over will have little time: the showdown with Benfica is just weeks away.