Riquelme and Mancini: A Shared History That Could Lead to Boca’s Next Coach

Following Boca Juniors’ quarterfinal exit against Independiente, the club is urgently searching for a high-profile coach to lead them into the upcoming Club World Cup. As reported by La Nación, one name drawing attention is Italian manager Roberto Mancini, who recently left Saudi Arabia’s national team after 18 matches. While Mancini has never coached in South America, a long-standing connection with club president Juan Román Riquelme may be key to the deal.

The bond dates back to 2006, when Riquelme’s Villarreal eliminated Mancini’s star-studded Inter Milan from the UEFA Champions League. So impressed was Mancini by the Argentine playmaker’s performance that he tried to sign him for the Nerazzurri the following summer. Inter made a formal offer, but Villarreal refused to sell, citing a release clause between €35–40 million.

Now the tables have turned, with Riquelme considering Mancini to guide Boca through a critical stretch. At 60, the Italian coach is reportedly open to the move. Other candidates include Gerardo Martino, Miguel Ángel Russo, and Gustavo Quinteros, but Mancini’s resume and past admiration for Riquelme could tip the scales. Boca’s squad is on break until next Tuesday, and the goal is to have the new coach in place by then.