After Boca Juniors’ 1-1 draw against Rosario Central, midfielder Rodrigo Battaglia highlighted the great moment his teammate Leandro Paredes is experiencing. The World Cup champion, who decided this year to leave European football for Boca, has previously played for PSG, Juventus and Roma. Since his arrival, Paredes now shares the midfield with Battaglia.
Getty Images SportBattaglia and Paredes solidify midfield
Battaglia had nothing but praise for Paredes, who returned to Argentina this year after a long spell in European football. Battaglia underlined the strong partnership he has developed with the former PSG star.
"With Paredes, everything comes naturally. We talk a lot on the pitch. When he drops deeper, I push a bit higher so he can find me, and when it’s the other way around, I hold my position," Battaglia said. "Lea has vision and passing ability that, I have to admit, I don’t have as much. We complement each other well. If he attacks, I stay; if I push forward, he stays back. It’s basic, but I think we’re doing it the right way."
AdvertisementGetty Images SportParedes’ arrival a boost for Boca
The former Sporting CP player also highlighted the maturity and completeness that Paredes has shown since his return to Boca.
"I had high expectations for him, and he has delivered. He’s very mature now. Over the years, he became a more complete player. His vision of the game is special, and we try to take advantage of that," Battaglia said.
When asked about Paredes’ current form, Battaglia was emphatic: "Paredes is at a great level, and without a doubt, he is the best player in Argentine football."
Getty Images Sport'Having world champions in the team is something to enjoy'
Battaglia also emphasized the importance of having a World Cup winner such as Paredes in the squad, both on and off the field.
"Lea’s arrival helped us a lot as a team," he said. "A player with that much quality sets the tone for how we train and how the group is managed. That leadership carries over onto the pitch. We have a mix of experienced players, hungry players, and young guys who listen. Having world champions in the team is something to enjoy. It’s great for Argentine football that players of this caliber are competing here – it enriches the league a lot. Hopefully, more will come."
Getty Images SportBoca Juniors on a strong run
Boca Juniors sit in third place in Argentina’s Primera División with 13 points. The Xeneize are in good form and pushing to reach the top of the standings.