Gago Weighs Merentiel or Zeballos to Replace Injured Giménez for Boca's Next Clash

Boca Juniors faces a key lineup decision ahead of their match against Estudiantes as Milton Giménez has been ruled out with a right ankle sprain. While the striker is expected to recover in time for the upcoming Superclásico against River Plate on April 27, head coach Fernando Gago must find a suitable replacement in the meantime.

According to TyC Sports, Miguel Merentiel is the logical choice to step in, but Gago is also considering a tactical shift. One possibility is starting Exequiel Zeballos in a wider attacking role alongside Edinson Cavani, moving Boca to a 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1 formation with Carlos Palacios and Kevin Zenón also playing up front.

Another candidate is Alan Velasco, who has made only one start since Boca’s Copa Libertadores elimination. Despite his limited minutes, the $10 million signing could be used as a playmaker behind Cavani in a more creative role.

Gago also faces uncertainty at right back. Lucas Blondel has started the last six matches but has struggled in recent games. Luis Advíncula, who replaced him in the last three, may reclaim the spot for the Estudiantes match. Juan Barinaga is also on the roster but has seen little action since the heavy loss to Alianza Lima.

With a critical stretch of matches approaching, Gago must recalibrate his squad carefully, balancing short-term needs with long-term ambitions ahead of Argentina’s most anticipated fixture.