Merentiel wants pay rise after Lanús brace, eyes Boca retirement | OneFootball

Boca Juniors’ recent victory over Lanús not only secured three points on the table, but also marked the resurgence of Miguel Merentiel under the watchful eye of Juan Román Riquelme. The Uruguayan striker, who had been going through a slump in performance that worried the Xeneize camp, returned to his best form by scoring a crucial brace and displaying offensive movement that was decisive for the team’s performance.

The agent’s request and Merentiel’s firm stance

Although the “Beast” has a contract signed until December 2027, his immediate future off the pitch has become a topic of debate. Marcelo Tejera, the player’s agent, gave an interview to the Uruguayan program Minuto 1 where he was blunt about the footballer’s financial situation. Tejera revealed that he has asked Riquelme for a salary update, arguing that the current contract is outdated given the leading role the striker now has in the squad.

“What I have asked the president of Boca, without much luck so far, is an improvement that matches what Merentiel represents for the club today,” said the agent. However, to reassure the fans, Tejera clarified that money is not a breaking point: “Miguel is extremely comfortable at Boca and his intention is not to leave; he says he would prefer to finish his career there.” Despite receiving offers every transfer window, none have managed to entice the player like the mystique of La Bombonera does.

Support for Claudio Úbeda and the internal atmosphere

The Uruguayan’s great form is measured not only in goals (he has already reached 53 with the blue and gold), but also in his influence in the locker room. The emotional hug Merentiel gave Claudio Úbeda after scoring was seen as a strong political show of support for the coach at a time of scrutiny.

At a press conference, Úbeda highlighted the striker’s human qualities: “Miguel is an extraordinary person who brings laughter to the group. The message we try to give is that the players fight every match as if it were a final.” For their part, the management led by Riquelme continues to view Merentiel as one of the “best deals” of their tenure, valuing both his sporting contribution and his commitment to the club.

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