Leonardo Balerdi’s determination to join Roma was reportedly strong enough for him to reject an emotional return to Boca Juniors.
The Argentine defender has already demonstrated his commitment during his opening appearances for the Giallorossi, but a report from Argentina has now revealed further details about the decision behind his summer move.
According to Planeta Boca Juniors and TyC Sports, Boca coach Rodolfo Arruabarrena contacted Balerdi approximately 20 days before his transfer to Roma became official and attempted to convince him to return to Buenos Aires.
Boca reportedly offered Balerdi the captaincy
The proposal represented a significant temptation for Balerdi, who has always maintained a strong connection with Boca.
He developed in the club’s academy before making his senior debut for the Xeneizes, and the possibility of returning to La Bombonera reportedly carried considerable emotional appeal.
Arruabarrena was said to have offered Balerdi an important role in the team and even promised him the captain’s armband once Leandro Paredes eventually departed.
Despite the opportunity to return to his boyhood club and potentially become its captain, Balerdi had already set his sights on joining Roma.
Balerdi chose Roma project
The defender ultimately declined Boca’s approach and accepted the move to the Italian capital, underlining his desire to become part of Gian Piero Gasperini’s project.
Balerdi’s choice offers further evidence of his enthusiasm for the Giallorossi opportunity. After arriving from Marseille, the Argentine has begun integrating into Roma’s defensive system and will hope to establish himself as an important member of the squad.
For Boca, the unsuccessful approach represented a missed opportunity to bring one of their academy graduates home. For Roma, it confirmed that Balerdi was fully committed to beginning a new chapter at the Stadio Olimpico.
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