Russo spoke ahead of the clásico with Racing: injured players, departure rumors, and praise

In the lead-up to the match against Racing for the fourth round of the Torneo Clausura, Miguel Ángel Russo once again sat in front of the microphones at a press conference outside his usual routine. The last time he had done so in this format was before the debut in the tournament, a day after the presentation of Leandro Paredes, repeating a custom from his previous stints at Boca.

The coach opened the conversation by referring directly to the upcoming match: "We're doing well, working a lot. It's important for us to win. We know we're going to face a tough opponent. We've been talking a lot privately, as a group, individually. Understanding everything as these kinds of things are, it's not madness either".

Rumors about his continuity and family message

The press conference also served to dispel the rumors about his future, amid speculation that has grown in recent weeks: "At no time am I going to think about anything negative", he assured.

He also recalled the public defense his son Ignacio made in the media. "My son is going to talk about himself and about Tigre. Don't look for things where there aren't any. He has a different mindset. Yesterday I had a tough day because he underwent surgery (for the facial fracture he suffered against San Lorenzo) and I dedicated myself to him", he commented.

Injuries, Merentiel, and team formation

Russo spoke about the physical condition of Ayrton Costa, Nicolás Figal, and other players who are gradually returning to training. Regarding the situation of Miguel Merentiel, involved in a discussion after the match with Huracán, he was clear: "I talk to everyone as a group. It's not that everything is individual. The best way for everyone to understand you is as a group".

Regarding the starting eleven for Saturday, he stuck to his style: "In Argentine football, the starting eleven by heart is relative. Boca has the responsibility to be a protagonist and we're going to look for the best way to face a team like Racing. I value Racing a lot as a team, but I believe a lot in my people".

Relationship with the Football Council

Asked about the continuity of the Football Council, the coach chose to lower the tone: "I'm fine. I don't like to lose, it hurts, but we have to get up. The Council, all of us, are looking for Boca to win, which is what we like the most". He said this in the presence of Marcelo Delgado, who will remain in his position despite internal rumors about changes.

Milton Delgado and the U-20 National Team

Another topic was the release of Milton Delgado to train with the U-20 National Team: "Delgado is going to the National Team, that's fine. We'll look for the way and the manner to see how the week continues", he explained, leaving the door open for the player to alternate between Boca's practices and those of the national team.

Paredes, key player

Before leaving, Russo spoke with Radio La Red and elaborated on the role of Leandro Paredes: "Irreplaceable player? The special one is Paredes. Because of his style, because you see him train, we're lucky to have him", he said, making it clear that the world champion will be a central figure in this new Boca he leads.