Midfielder Juan Román Riquelme in action.
Heavy losses lead to heavy decision-making, but in the case of Boca Juniors’ Juan Román Riquelme, the decision was made before the team’s loss, as it was revealed by the very same midfielder that he had told the club’s president Daniel Angelici that no matter what the Libertadores final’s outcome, he will no longer play for the Xeneizes.
The news was not revealed until after the match, when Riquelme faced reporters and told them “I have spoken with my teammates and the club’s president and told them that I will no longer play for Boca”, and added, “I feel empty, like if I have nothing left to give to this club.”
«I was born “bostero” [term used for Boca fans], and I will die ‘bostero’,» however, the talented midfielder brought to light that not being fully to play fuelled his decision.
«I have such a huge commitment with the club that I feel I can’t no longer be here playing half my potential.
“Today I feel I reached the peak since I never imagined I could play another Libertadores final,» the player said.
Likewise, the playmaker remarked to be “grateful” to all Boca fans but emphasized that “after 16 years playing football professionally, I feel like going home be with my family, friends and tell my son I’m sorry for not bringing the Cup.”
Asked if he was announcing his retirement, the former Barcelona said “No, I’m just saying there’s nothing more I can give to Boca.”
Riquelme’s contract with Boca Juniors expires on June 30, 2014. His near future could be in China or Qatar considering the large sums those markets offer, though following Riquelme’s thoughts of preferring to be near his closest ones, options like Argentinos Juniors, the club where he started his career, or Tigre another Argentine club he feels close to since he was born in Tigre neighborhood, and it’s where he currently lives, could be more suitable options for the midfielder.
buenosairesherald.com