Former Boca Coach Questions Palacios' Commitment After Missed Training

Carlos Palacios has come under scrutiny at Boca Juniors after skipping Monday’s training session, and while coach Fernando Gago is expected to forgive the incident and include him in the upcoming match against Newell’s, criticism from a club insider has emerged. Claudio Borghi, a former Boca manager, spoke on Radio Continental and expressed concern about the Chilean midfielder's recent behavior and on-field performances, saying, “Sometimes players don’t realize where they are.”

Borghi believes that Palacios may be struggling with the demands of a club like Boca. Despite a strong stint at Colo-Colo, Borghi suggested that a transitional step might have helped the 24-year-old adjust before joining one of South America’s most demanding teams. “Maybe he needed another stop before coming to such a big club,” he said.

Palacios, who missed training citing personal issues, had also left a Chile national team camp under similar circumstances in the past. Borghi referenced that incident, noting reports that his departure was related to frustration over not starting a match. “He’s a kid who sometimes makes poor decisions,” Borghi added.

The former coach acknowledged that Riquelme may have been behind Palacios’ arrival at Boca, drawn to his vision and passing ability. However, Borghi cautioned, “Boca slowly absorbs you. Not everyone is ready.”