Overview
- Messi told ESPN that Leandro Paredes "gave a big change" to Boca, strengthening the side especially at home and bringing order on the pitch.
- Coverage notes Boca reversed a 12-match winless stretch after Paredes’ arrival and is now reported to be 180 minutes from a domestic title.
- Los Andes reports Boca faces Racing next in a semifinal, entering on a six-match winning run with four consecutive clean sheets.
- Messi described Paredes as a close friend and praised his influence on group dynamics, adding that players like Paredes and Rodrigo De Paul can be abrasive as rivals but are modest off the field.
- Discussing his own plans, Messi said he hopes to complete a strong preseason to be ready for the World Cup and noted the Finalissima’s venue and even its staging remain uncertain.