Leandro Paredes has bid farewell to Roma for the second time, completing his return to his first love, Boca Juniors, after making 135 appearances for the Italian club.
Despite his success with the Argentina national team, including winning the 2022 World Cup and two Copa America titles, Paredes` club trophies have come from his time at PSG, Boca Juniors, and Zenit St. Petersburg.
In an emotional Instagram post, Paredes expressed his gratitude to Roma, saying, “Roma will always be my second home. It was my first and last club in Europe. I`m disappointed I couldn`t win a trophy with you, but I know I gave my all.”
The midfielder emphasized his family`s connection to the club, stating, “Two of my children are Roman, but all three are Romanisti. I hope I was a good professional and role model for young players, and above all, a good person.”
Addressing his return to Boca Juniors, Paredes said, “The time has come for me to go back home, to the club of my heart. I believe the great Roman and Romanista community will understand. Thank you to all of Rome and to Roma. We will always carry you in our hearts, which will forever be Giallorossi. I love you.”
Paredes, a product of Boca Juniors` youth academy, began his European journey with Chievo in 2014 before joining Roma. His career then took him to Zenit St. Petersburg, Paris Saint-Germain, and Juventus before his return to Roma in 2023.
The transfer to Boca Juniors was facilitated by a gentleman`s agreement allowing Paredes to leave for €3.5 million, which the Argentine club has agreed to pay in full.