UEFA Champions League
Boca Juniors is preparing to make a big move ahead of the 2026 season. The xeneize club, under the ambitious watch of Juan Román Riquelme, has its sights set on Marco Verratti.
The Italian midfielder, 33, is going through a period of change and is already considering leaving his current club in Qatar. His contract with Al Duhail ends in June 2026, which would open the door to a possible move to Argentina just as Boca is gearing up for a strong return to the Copa Libertadores, as reported by Doble Amarilla.
Román and his close circle's idea is to add a high-level midfielder to compete in a new continental cup. Additionally, the conversation between Verratti and his former teammates Leandro Paredes and Ander Herrera has been crucial: both have already expressed their desire to persuade him to join the Boca project.
Marco Verratti, Boca Juniors' Desire
For Boca Juniors, signing Verratti would be much more than a reinforcement: it would be a clear message of ambition. The Italian has already shared the dressing room with Paredes at PSG, and their friendship could play a key role in the operation. According to local sources, the club is willing to attract not only the player but also his inner circle, even considering a plan for his family in Buenos Aires.
Verratti does not see his time in Qatar as definitive. After several seasons in Europe and experiences at elite clubs, the midfielder values the opportunity to compete in a demanding environment again, with the motivation of playing in the Libertadores and contributing to a strengthened Boca. His profile of great experienced talent fits perfectly with the club's needs for 2026.

Riquelme's Plan and the Pressure to Close the Deal
From the leadership of Boca Juniors, Riquelme has already set his strategy in motion: Leandro Paredes and Ander Herrera, influential figures, are tasked with building bridges to Verratti, highlighting the sporting project and the passion generated by playing at La Bombonera. Furthermore, the club's image is bolstered by its philosophy of bringing in stars to reinforce both on a sporting and symbolic level.
The aspiration to have Verratti is in line with Boca's ambitious plan for 2026. They aim not only to assemble a competitive team for the Argentine league but also to prepare a squad capable of contending in the Libertadores. The arrival of a creative midfielder with European experience could be the missing piece to elevate the squad to another level.
Risks and Challenges of the Signing
Securing Verratti's transfer will not be easy. His contract with Al Duhail, his age, and his salary in Qatar could be hurdles. Boca must demonstrate that they can offer an attractive project, with sporting and economic conditions that justify the leap across continents. Moreover, convincing Verratti also involves persuading his family and inner circle, something that Riquelme already seems to be actively working on.
Nevertheless, Boca's desire seems real and urgent. If Boca manages to sway the Italian midfielder, they will not only sign a top-notch player but also send a very strong signal to South American football: that they are ready to go all in.
The operation for Marco Verratti would represent a strategic coup for Boca Juniors and could mark the beginning of a new era at La Bombonera, with a team prepared to shine in the Libertadores 2026.
This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, BOMBAZO: Boca Juniors va por el fichaje de Marco Verratti
