Marcos Rojo Eyes Return to Estudiantes for Copa Libertadores Semifinals
Marcos Rojo is set to request an amicable contract termination from Racing Club to join Estudiantes de La Plata for the upcoming Copa Libertadores semifinals.
Defensive Urgency Fuels Estudiantes’ Pursuit
The push to repatriate Rojo stems from an immediate personnel crisis in La Plata. Estudiantes head coach Alexander Medina finds himself severely depleted in the central defensive third due to suspensions sidelining both Leandro González Pírez and Tomás Palacios ahead of the first leg against Flamengo. Estudiantes president Juan Sebastián Verón confirmed the club’s active search for defensive reinforcements during an interview on Deportivo1270 via Radio Provincia, noting that management and the technical staff were reviewing options across several domestic clubs.
While Estudiantes initially evaluated alternative targets including Carlos Izquierdoz of Lanús and Matías Catalán of Talleres, Rojo remained the primary objective. The strategic calculus shifted decisively following Racing’s quarterfinal exit from the Copa Argentina at the hands of Boca Juniors, which removed internal obstacles and made a departure viable. Rojo joined Racing in August 2025 after being separated from Boca’s main squad, making 29 appearances and scoring two goals for the Avellaneda side.
Contractual Terms and the Path to Avellaneda’s Exit
Club leadership in Avellaneda is reportedly not expected to block the transfer, though officials are anticipated to request financial compensation to release the player before his contract expires. A similar exit was explored in January 2026, but discussions stalled when neither the player nor Estudiantes was willing to cover the initial financial settlement demanded by Racing.
With Racing out of the Copa Argentina and virtually eliminated from contention for international competition slots for 2027, Rojo views a return to Estudiantes—where he began his professional career and secured the 2009 Copa Libertadores title—as an opportunity to close his career chapter on familiar ground. For the continental tournament, squad registration rules permit roster modifications ahead of the semifinal round, clearing a straightforward path for his inclusion.
Potential Domestic Impact and Squad Registration
Beyond the continental campaign, Estudiantes evaluates the possibility of registering Rojo for the domestic Clausura tournament. Such a move depends on utilizing a roster exception slot following an injury to midfielder Gabriel Neves, who suffered a fracture to his left wrist, requires surgery, and will miss the remainder of the season.
As Rojo returns to training on Tuesday to formally present his departure request to Racing president Diego Milito, the final decision rests with Avellaneda’s executive board regarding the terms of his release. Should negotiations conclude swiftly, the central defender will embark on his third stint with the La Plata outfit.
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