Rodolfo Arruabarrena: “I've got good players, hope I can build a good team” | OneFootball

Rodolfo Arruabarrena’s recent remarks after the friendly draw against Athletico Paranaense painted a clear picture ahead of the new semester. The coach analyzed the team’s performance, physical preparation, and the board’s constant activity in the transfer market.

Boca wrapped up its most demanding stage of preparation with a draw against the Brazilian side. This final test served as a gauge to measure the workload after several weeks of intense physical activity in preseason. The coaching staff carefully assessed the squad before the official schedule begins.

After the final whistle, the man in charge of the blue and gold side spoke to break down the current state of his players. In the midst of a rebuild, the top priority is to establish an identity that truly reflects the spirit of the club from La Ribera.

Boca beat Paranaense 1-0. Photo: Javier Martino/Prensa CABJ.

True to his measured yet forceful style, the Vasco made it clear that there is room for improvement from a footballing standpoint. The lack of match rhythm with the ball was one of the main points of his remarks to both club and national media.

Rodolfo Arruabarrena’s first statements

Since his arrival, the Vasco had not spoken, which is why his comments carried special weight. Addressing Boca’s physical preparation, the coach did not hesitate to highlight the group’s total commitment. "It’s been 20 days of work, and they’ve been important sessions, especially the first two weeks," he said with satisfaction.

However, he warned about the team’s pending issue with possession and fluency on the ball. "The boys have responded well physically, but we’ve lacked football," Arruabarrena admitted with his trademark frankness.

Match analysis

Regarding the course of the friendly, the manager emphasized the condition of the pitch and the value of the opponent. "The field was difficult for both teams. I think at times we dared to play and at other times we didn’t, but it’s a good test," he reflected in front of the microphones.

He also praised the opponent’s quality for raising Boca’s competitive standard ahead of what’s to come. "It’s a team whose coach I know, one that is having a very good league campaign in Brazil, so it’s an important experience. It’s a step forward for us; there are good things and not-so-good things that we have to correct," he admitted.

Mindset and relationship with the fans

The psychological aspect is vital to changing the image left by the recent past and strengthening confidence in the dressing room. "I’ve talked about it with the players, I trust them, and honestly I think I have a good squad. We’re not coming off a good semester, and here we have to work," the coach stressed firmly.

The main goal is to build a bond based on attitude and good football. "We have to try to make a good team, a good group, keep moving forward, and work. I think it’s everything, both mentally and football-wise," he stated.

The Vasco’s team. Photo: Proenter.

To conclude on this fundamental pillar, he left a direct message for the heart of the Boca fanbase. "Hopefully we can win them over, make ourselves understood, and have the team show different qualities on the field. Above all, that the fans identify with what the team does on the pitch," he concluded.

The Vasco’s tactical adjustments

From a tactical standpoint, Boca’s coach analyzed the defensive details and the team’s retreat. "The field was difficult. Besides that, they are a team that knows how to move the ball, with quick players out wide, and we didn’t have problems," he said regarding the organization of his back line.

Intensity in winning the ball back will be a non-negotiable principle throughout his tenure. "There may be some mismatches; there are certain movements we still have to keep working on and correcting. Pressing has to be one of our weapons when we don’t have the ball," the coach explained.

When it comes to build-up and attack, he demanded more boldness from his midfielders and forwards. "When we have it, we have to dare to play a little more. I have the players to do it, and I think we’re going to achieve it," the manager said confidently.

Arruabarrena and the transfer market

Talks over new signings are a daily matter, and the coach is closely following every move. "I’ve spoken about that with the president; I know the club is making moves. You know perfectly well that the market is long, and there have been one or two cases where Boca are asked for more money than others, but the club is working," he said, backing the work of the board led by Juan Román Riquelme.

Communication with the club’s top brass is constant and fluid in order to secure the necessary additions. "The president is always in touch, I have Chelo with me every day. I may have a kind face, but I’m demanding and pretty stubborn," he warned, making clear his unwavering stance when it comes to asking for reinforcements.

The coach’s expectations

Finally, the Vasco looked ahead to the tough schedule awaiting Boca in the coming months of competition. "Every Boca team is different, every group is different in terms of results and fighting to become champions," he analyzed with caution and experience.

The physical and mental demands will be at their highest due to the relentless run of official matches. "We know we have a semester ahead that, if we do things right, will be complicated. Every three or four days in these two months we could be competing and playing," he projected.

Arruabarrena began his second spell at Boca. Photo: Javier Martino/Prensa CABJ.

With his eyes on the official debut, he left a phrase that sums up his hope and confidence in the squad. "I have good players and I hope to build a good team," the coach concluded, drawing the line under what will be a new stage of maximum demands at the biggest club in the country.

Keep reading:

Lautaro Blanco, excited about Arruabarrena: “We quickly bought into his idea”

When Boca play again after the friendly win over Paranaense

Boca’s player ratings at the start of Arruabarrena’s second spell

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