Boca Juniors Targets Marco Verratti for 2026 Copa Libertadores Campaign

Boca Juniors has commenced preparations for their return to the 2026 Copa Libertadores, with club president Juan Román Riquelme actively seeking elite reinforcements. According to reports from Doble Amarilla, one of the primary targets is Marco Verratti, who departed Paris Saint-Germain in 2023 for a new chapter with Al Duhail in Qatar. After facing a challenging season hindered by injuries and limited playing time, Verratti is now in search of a fresh challenge.

Having joined Al Duhail this summer following two seasons at Al Arabi, Verratti has spent a significant portion of November recuperating from a muscle injury. Despite signing a contract that extends until June 2026, the Italian midfielder has privately considered an early departure, engaging in discussions with various clubs in Italy, including Inter Milan, AC Milan, and Juventus, as he contemplates his next move.

These discussions have led to new considerations, particularly after conversations with former PSG teammates Edinson Cavani, Ángel Herrera, and Leandro Paredes, who encouraged him to explore the possibility of joining Boca Juniors. This prompted Riquelme to take action, establishing direct communication with Verratti and even appealing to his wife, Jessica Aidi, by presenting opportunities in Buenos Aires—a clear indication of Boca’s ambitions.

This potential acquisition is emblematic of Boca’s overarching strategy ahead of the 2026 Libertadores campaign. Riquelme aims to assemble a seasoned core with international credentials, and Verratti fits this vision seamlessly. With a history of competing at the highest levels of European football, including Champions League experience and a background as a former Italy international, he embodies the qualities Boca seeks to fortify their squad.

Cavani, who joined Boca in 2023, was the initial major addition, followed by Herrera and Paredes, who actively supported Verratti’s recruitment. The prospect of a PSG-style midfield reunion in Buenos Aires highlights Boca’s commitment to reclaiming continental supremacy. Additionally, Verratti’s eagerness to return to high-level competition aligns with Boca’s goals; after considering options in Serie A, the opportunity to compete in the Libertadores offers both prestige and renewed sporting motivation.

However, the path to securing Verratti is complex. Being under contract with Al Duhail, Boca Juniors must either negotiate an early release or rely on the midfielder to advocate for his departure. Currently, Verratti’s camp has begun to explore exit strategies, and the Qatari club is aware of his desire to leave.

Moreover, Boca fans are buzzing about rumors connecting the club with Paulo Dybala, the Roma star whose contract situation in Italy and past remarks about Argentine football have generated speculation. While the discussions surrounding Dybala remain tentative, his name adds further intrigue to Boca’s 2026 project. Should both acquisitions materialize, Boca would find themselves with a squad featuring some of the most notable talents in South American football history.

Verratti stands as Boca’s most prominent target, and Riquelme has already initiated the recruitment process. The midfielder’s willingness to depart Qatar, coupled with encouragement from Cavani, Herrera, and Paredes, transforms this ambition into a tangible objective. Progress now hinges on Boca’s ability to negotiate with Al Duhail or devise an innovative exit strategy before mid-2026. With the Libertadores campaign on the horizon, the Argentine giants are eager to finalize the deal well in advance.

One thing remains clear: if Verratti makes the move, Boca’s aspirations for the 2026 season will be unmistakable. With Cavani, Herrera, and Paredes already in the squad, the stage is set for one of the most remarkable reunions in South American football of recent times.