Russo's forceful decision regarding Lema and Saracchi: 'They will not play anymore'

Marcelo Saracchi and Cristian Lema are now definitively out of Miguel Ángel Russo's plans at Boca. Although both players are physically fit to compete, the coach was unequivocal: "They will not play anymore."

The decision is not circumstantial or based on performance, but rather an essential decision that originated from the internal conflict they were involved in alongside Marcos Rojo months ago.

According to journalist Federico Cristofanelli, Russo keeps the position that the defenders will not be considered for official competition again. "They will not have a chance to rejoin the professional squad," he emphasized, which in practice means that the two players will have to continue training separately, without contact with the rest of the group.

The trigger for the situation was the heated confrontation the players had with the coaching staff after a tactical talk following the defeat against Huracán. From that moment on, Rojo ended up leaving the club, while Lema and Saracchi were left in a sort of sporting limbo, since they are contractually part of the squad, but are not being considered.

Uncertain future and long contracts

The situation of both players is not identical. Lema has a contract with Boca until December 2025, so if he doesn't find a club in the next transfer window, he could leave as a free agent once that contract ends.

Saracchi, meanwhile, is tied to Xeneize until December 2027. If he intends to leave in December, he will need to bring an offer that satisfies the board, since his departure will only happen if it is beneficial for the club.

Meanwhile, Russo keeps his firm stance: the two are training separately, but they will not wear Boca's jersey again while he is in charge.