Russo eyes three Colombian wingers as Boca prepares for the Club World Cup

With Miguel Ángel Russo back at the helm, Boca Juniors is not just regaining a coach—it’s reviving an old tradition. The 69-year-old manager has long shown a strong preference for Colombian players, and with the transfer window now open, he has already shortlisted three Colombian wingers as top targets: Marino Hinestroza (Atlético Nacional), Jhon Córdoba (Millonarios), and Jáminton Campaz (Rosario Central).

Boca now has an open foreign player slot, following the Argentine naturalization of striker Miguel Merentiel, and Russo wants at least one of these players in his squad ahead of the 2025 Club World Cup.

Who are the targets?

Marino Hinestroza (22): A rising star at Atlético Nacional. Boca is reportedly ready to offer $5 million plus Jorman Campuzano, whose loan with Nacional just ended. However, Russo may push to keep Campuzano, seeing the midfield as an unsettled area.

Jhon Emerson Córdoba (24): A more affordable option, Córdoba’s valuation sits at around €1.2 million. The winger has shined at Millonarios and is seen as a good fit for Russo’s playing style.

Jáminton Campaz (25): Perhaps the most familiar name on the list, Campaz played under Russo at Rosario Central, where they won the 2023 Copa de la Liga. With a market value around €6 million, Boca will have to negotiate with Central. The player, however, has expressed interest in teaming up with Ángel Di María again.

Russo’s connection with Colombian players runs deep. His successful stint at Millonarios (2016–2018), which included two titles and a personal recovery from illness, helped him understand the mindset of Colombian footballers. In previous Boca spells, he got the best out of Villa, Fabra, and Campuzano—and even tried to bring in players like Borja and Tesillo.

“There’s something special about Colombian players. I understand them, and they’ve responded well,” Russo once said. He was even considered for the Colombian national team at one point.

With Boca reshaping its squad and Russo leading the way, a fresh Colombian flavor could soon return to La Bombonera.