After going through several weeks affected by an extensive list of injured players, Boca begins to receive some encouraging news ahead of a decisive match. The team led by Rodolfo Arruabarrena will face Vélez this Wednesday in the round of 16 of the Copa Argentina and will be able to count on Leandro Lozano and Marco Pellegrino again.
Both defenders have completed their respective recovery processes and all indications are that they will be included in the squad to travel to Córdoba. Both absences arose from the match of the Xeneize against Platense: Lozano had been sidelined due to a hamstring strain in his left leg, while Pellegrino suffered a muscle tear.
Now, the return of the two defenders raises questions about the starting lineup. Lozano is likely to reclaim his spot on the wing and could come in for Dylan Gorosito, while Pellegrino will compete for a position in defense, in a sector currently occupied by the young Facundo Herera due to the absence of Ayrton Costa.
Arruabarrena recovers Lozano and Pellegrino
On the other hand, the Vasco is also considering other changes regarding the team that just overcame Lanús. Leandro Paredes, recovered from the inflammation in his left hamstring that kept him out of some matches, could return to the midfield in place of Camilo Rey Domenech.
The main doubt lies in the attack front. The coach must decide whether to keep Alan Velasco after his last performance or if Sebastián Villa will return to the starting lineup. The choice, moreover, could directly influence the tactical system that Boca will use against the Fortín.
Boca's Injury Report
While recovering some players, the injury report still presents several important absences. Ayrton Costa continues to be affected by a hamstring tear and a lumbar pain, while Malcom Braida is still working to overcome a muscle strain.
The most complex situation is that of Tomás Aranda, who suffered a fibula fracture and will face a recovery period of three to four months. The intention is for him to return during the preseason in January 2027.
Aranda, one of the pillars of Boca under Arruabarrena, would miss the rest of the season
Adam Bareiro, meanwhile, will undergo surgery for alumbar injury this Tuesday and is not expected to play again for the rest of the year. Rodrigo Battaglia continues with rehabilitation following surgery on his Achilles tendon and could rejoin group training in September.
Finally, Agustín Marchesín is continuing his recovery after surgery for a rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee. His return is expected between December and January, with an eye on preparing for the 2027 season.
