Leandro Paredes has been ruled out of Boca Juniors’ crucial Friday night match against Racing Club, a setback for Claudio Úbeda’s team as they seek to improve their position in the Zona A of the Torneo Apertura 2026. The midfielder suffered a sprained right ankle, an injury he initially sustained at the finish of the 2025 Torneo Clausura, and aggravated during a recent match against Platense.
The absence of the world champion is a significant blow for Boca, currently seventh in the Zona A with seven points from two wins, one draw, and two losses. Úbeda’s position is under increasing scrutiny following a 2-1 defeat to Vélez and a goalless draw with Platense, performances that have left the team struggling for consistency. The December 7th match against Racing, which resulted in a loss for Boca and their elimination from the Torneo Clausura, is widely considered a turning point in Úbeda’s tenure, and a repeat performance on Friday could have serious consequences for the coach.
Paredes initially requested a substitution late in the match against Platense, acknowledging the lingering discomfort in his ankle. Medical examinations confirmed the sprain, sidelining him for at least two upcoming matches, including the fixture against Gimnasia y Esgrima de Chivilcoy next week. The injury occurred during a challenge with Santiago Solari in the previous encounter with Racing.
With Paredes unavailable, Milton Delgado is expected to fill the void in midfield. There is similarly a possibility of a starting role for Edinson Cavani, who last featured in the starting eleven on September 14th against Rosario Central. The Uruguayan forward, who has been hampered by injuries since joining Boca, could also be named captain in Paredes’ absence. Juan Barinaga, however, may lose his place in the team due to recent underwhelming performances.
Boca Juniors currently sit seventh in the Zona A standings, with a record of two wins, one draw, and two losses. Racing Club represents a difficult opponent, and the match carries significant weight for both clubs. Paredes is expected to return to training next Wednesday, pending his recovery, with a potential return to the squad for the match against Gimnasia.
