Midfielder Cristian Medina has made a surprising decision before the crucial match of Boca against Gimnasia y Esgrima La Plata in the quarter-finals of the Copa Argentina, by asking not to participate in the match. Medina informed coach Fernando Gago of his uncertainty regarding the delay in his transfer to Turkish football, due to ongoing negotiations with Fenerbahçe. This request caught Gago by surprise, who did not have time to convey it to the club's Football Council.
The Boca squad, concentrated in Rosario for the important challenge of qualifying for the Copa Libertadores 2025, now finds itself without Medina, who was expected to be a starter. The midfielder, highlighted in the Paris Olympic Games, is considered by Gago as a key player in the team. However, discussions about his potential transfer to Turkish football influenced his decision not to play.
Negotiations between Boca and Fenerbahçe have been marked by disagreements over payment terms. Although the Turkish club approached the 15 million dollars demanded by Boca, their long-term payment proposal was not convincing. With only 2.8 million dollars as an upfront payment and the rest in installments until 2027, the agreement becomes complicated for Boca, which is seeking immediate income.
Medina's request has generated tension at Boca, as the next transfer market opens in two months, meaning the player must remain at the club at least until the end of 2024. Nevertheless, Medina expressed his desire to seize the opportunity to make the leap to European football, a step he considers crucial for his career. Raúl Cascini, a member of Boca's Football Council, confirmed that the club has received several offers for Medina, but emphasized the player's importance to the team.
Meanwhile, Boca prepares to face Gimnasia y Esgrima La Plata without one of its midfield stars, in what could be the beginning of a tense situation between the club and the player.
