Balerdi rejected Boca captaincy offer to join Roma: ‘I waited for them’ | OneFootball

Leonardo Balerdi has revealed he turned down a lucrative approach from Boca Juniors to join Roma, and that the decision has already paid off with a return to the Argentina squad.

According to Corriere dello Sport, the defender is enjoying life at Trigoria after a strong start to the season. “At Roma they welcomed me really well. There are Argentine lads, that helped me a great deal,” he said. “The truth is I am very happy, I really wanted to play in Serie A.”

ROME, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 19: Players of AS Roma including Leonardo Balerdi pose for a team photograph before the Serie A match between AS Roma and FC Internazionale at Stadio Olimpico on September 19, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)

Balerdi turned down Boca captaincy pitch for Roma

The Boca offer was substantial as both the club president and coach called him personally, putting a significant salary on the table along with a sponsorship arrangement to boost his earnings further. He was also offered the prospect of the captaincy once Leandro Paredes retired.

Balerdi had already made up his mind. He said no to everyone and waited for Roma’s first call.

He came through a demanding test against Inter, marking Lautaro Martinez in the 2-2 draw. “I already knew him, so I knew it would be complicated and it was, but it was a good game.”

Gian Piero Gasperini has compared him to Franco Baresi, a description the Argentine played down. “They changed the sense of the words a bit. The coach was mainly referring to the characteristics Baresi had. I stay humble and continue my path.”

The call-up carries extra meaning given it coincides with Lionel Messi’s final match for Argentina. Balerdi missed the World Cup through a soleus injury in his right leg.

“I wanted to be here to be part of an important moment for Leo. For us he is the ultimate example. Being here is the best thing that could have happened to me.”