From Argentina: Balerdi rejected Boca Juniors for Roma | OneFootball

Leonardo Balerdi has made a strong start for Roma, despite not yet making his first start.

Against Atalanta, the number 26 won over the fans, putting in a top-notch performance and leading the Giallorossi to a comeback.

The center-back also enjoyed his minutes as a substitute against Fenerbahçe and did not disappoint.

A sensational backstory has emerged from Argentina. Boca Juniors had tried everything to bring the defender to Rodolfo Arruabarrena’s court.

The coach saw the 1999-born defender as the perfect reinforcement for the defense, but the Trigoria club prevailed.

As reported by TyC Sports, Arruabarrena had also had a call with Balerdi: Boca Juniors was ready to make the move on a loan deal, but the player chose Roma over the team that launched him into senior football.

The 1999-born player wanted the Roman club, and now he’s aiming to secure a starting spot. The number 26 has shown signs of improvement in the early stages, and he could get his chance against Torino.

The Argentine can play either in place of Evan Ndicka or Gianluca Mancini. Physically, he can handle the challenge even against imposing opponents, and on the counterattack, he can support the Giallorossi’s play.