Paredes back for Boca, Úbeda may start Ander Herrera in Superclásico | OneFootball

Boca kicks off the most crucial week of the final stretch of the year. The Superclásico is coming up, and it's a golden opportunity for the Xeneize to secure a spot in the next Copa Libertadores after two years without playing, with the added bonus of being able to overtake River in the annual standings. In this regard, Claudio Úbeda has already started planning a lineup that will feature the return of Leandro Paredes and may include Ander Herrera as a surprise addition.

Although the first practice will be this Tuesday and it's too early to confirm the team, the truth is that the coaching staff has been maintaining a core that will only undergo minor tweaks. At this point, the only confirmed change is the return of the world champion to the midfield, replacing Tomás Belmonte.

Could there be another change? Yes, because the Spaniard has shown he's still in top form after five consecutive impressive performances off the bench, contributing a dose of intelligence and talent that is rare in Argentine football every time he plays.

In sync with Paredes from their time at PSG, and with a good connection with Milton Delgado, especially when they formed a trident against Barracas Central, Úbeda is considering starting him on Sunday against River. If the coaching staff decides on the Basque as a starter, Carlos Palacios, who has yet to convince, might be the one to step down.

Herrera has been a key asset for the Xeneize in practically every match. It's worth recalling the big win against Pincha, where he caused Gabriel Neves' expulsion and, minutes later, earned the penalty that Miguel Merentiel converted into a goal.

For all these reasons, it's an option being considered at Boca and will likely be tested in the tactical drills over the coming days to see if it works. If it doesn't fully convince, the only change in the lineup, compared to the win against Estudiantes, would be Paredes for Belmonte.

The defense remains unchanged despite the scare with Juan Barinaga in La Plata, who left at the 61st minute as a precaution, and even less so the attack, which now with Exequiel Zeballos accompanying the double 9 (Milton Giménez-Migue Merentiel) is experiencing its best phase of scoring efficiency. Edinson Cavani is all set to be called up after several absences, although his lack of rhythm might keep him on the bench against River.

The probable Boca lineup against River Agustín Marchesín; Juan Barinaga, Lautaro Di Lollo, Ayrton Costa, Lautaro Blanco; Milton Delgado, Leandro Paredes, Carlos Palacios or Ander Herrera; Miguel Merentiel, Milton Giménez, and Exequiel Zeballos. Coach: Claudio Úbeda.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.