The club was founded on April 3, 1905, and since then it has established itself as one of the best teams in the world
5. Antonio Rattín
A defensive midfielder who symbolized the Xeneize grit in the 60s. He played 381 matches between 1956 and 1970, winning five local titles. He was a natural leader, with a strong temperament that led him to star in the famous episode in the 1966 World Cup, when he was unjustly sent off against England and refused to leave the field.
He was a legendary captain and one of the most important figures in the club's history.
4. Silvio Marzolini
Considered the best left-back in Argentine football history, he played for Boca between 1960 and 1972, being captain and emblem of the team. Elegant in defense and with great offensive projection, he was key in winning six titles.
He also represented Argentina in the 1962 and 1966 World Cups. After his retirement, he was Boca's coach and champion of the 1981 Metropolitano with Maradona on the team.
3. Diego Maradona
Although he played only one season in his first stage (1981-1982), it was enough to leave his mark. He won the 1981 Metropolitano tournament with memorable performances, including a 3-0 against River in which he humiliated Fillol and Tarantini.
His return in the 90s, although with less football brilliance, served to reaffirm his love for Boca and retire at the club of his loves. He always made it clear that Boca was his place in the world.
2. Martín Palermo
The top scorer in Boca's history, with 236 goals in 404 matches. Owner of unforgettable moments like the two goals against Real Madrid in the 2000 Intercontinental, his comebacks after two knee injuries, his agonizing goal against River in the 2000 Libertadores, and the header goal from 40 meters against Vélez.
He won 14 titles with the club, including two Libertadores and one Intercontinental. His grit and determination made him eternal in Xeneize history.
1. Juan Román Riquelme
Boca Juniors's greatest idol and the player who best represented the club's DNA. As a playmaker, he marked an era with his talent, intelligence, and composure. He led the team in its three Copa Libertadores conquests (2000, 2001, and 2007), being the absolute figure in the last one.
His performance in the final against Real Madrid in the 2000 Intercontinental is legendary. He played more than 380 matches with Boca, won 11 titles, and bid farewell with his idolatry intact. Currently, he is the club's president and remains linked to Boca's history.
On April 3, 1905, in the Plaza Solís of the La Boca neighborhood, five young Italian immigrants, Esteban Baglietto, Alfredo Scarpatti, Santiago Sana, and the brothers Juan and Teodoro Farenga, founded Club Atlético Boca Juniors. Over time, the Xeneize, a nickname in honor of the Genoese who created the club, gained notoriety not only on the local level but also continentally and globally, becoming one of the largest in the country.
However, every successful team must have players who were essential in achieving titles and cups. That's why, celebrating the 120 years since its foundation, we asked the AI: Who are the 10 best players in Boca's history and why?
10. Sebastián Battaglia
The most successful player in Boca's history with 18 titles. A central midfielder with great range, balance, and hierarchy, he was key in the Bianchi era and in the subsequent rebuilding.
He won 4 Copa Libertadores (2000, 2001, 2003, and 2007), as well as multiple local and international titles, including the 2000 Intercontinental Cup against Real Madrid and the 2003 Intercontinental against Milan. His loyalty and dedication made him an absolute club reference.
9. Carlos Tevez
The last great contemporary idol. He excelled in the 2003 Libertadores, being key in the final against Santos, and that same year he would win the Intercontinental against Milan. After his successful stint in Europe, he returned in 2015 to win titles and become captain.
In his third cycle (2020-2021), he led the team to the 2019/20 Superliga championship. In total, he won 11 titles with Boca and left a legacy of unwavering love for the jersey.
8. Roberto Mouzo
The player with the most appearances in Boca's history (426 matches). A central defender with unmatched grit. He played for the club between 1971 and 1984, winning six titles, including two Libertadores and the club's first Intercontinental against Borussia Mönchengladbach.
His leadership in defense and loyalty to the club made him a historic figure.
7. Ángel Clemente Rojas ("Rojitas")
One of the most beloved players by the fans. Skillful, dribbler, and with unique elegance, he was Boca's great figure in the 60s.
He stood out for his ability to disrupt and his love for the club, being champion on several occasions, including the historic 1969 double championship (Nacional and Metropolitano). His flashy and charismatic football made him an eternal idol.
6. Hugo Gatti
The most charismatic and revolutionary goalkeeper in Boca's history. He played for the club between 1976 and 1988, winning two Libertadores and one Intercontinental (1977). With his unique style, he played with his feet when it was unusual for a goalkeeper and conveyed security in decisive moments.
Nicknamed "El Loco," he starred in memorable duels, like the 1977 Libertadores final, where he was key in the penalty shootout.
