Cristian Traverso Opposes Sebastián Villa's Potential Return to Boca Juniors

Cristian Traverso, a former Boca Juniors defender who won the Copa Intercontinental in 2000, publicly rejected the possible return of Sebastián Villa to the club. Traverso stated he does not want Villa back even for free, citing the player's controversial departure in 2023 amid legal issues. Source: clarin

Traverso's stance

In a series of social media posts, Traverso expressed his frustration. He wrote "7 M ???" questioning the reported $7 million fee Boca might pay, adding "Encima que se fue con lío de todos los colores y libre... Boca está por pagar eso?? Necesidad mata memoria..." Source: infobae In a video, he said: "Como hincha estoy fastidioso. Dan en potencial que el que se fue con todos los quilombos, con juicios, va a volver a salvarnos. Encima, ¿lo van a pagar? Yo ni gratis lo quiero, por todo lo que pasó." Source: clarin

• Traverso acknowledged Villa's skill but argued "Boca lo salva un equipo, no un jugador." Source: clarin
• He previously warned: "Hay que tener memoria. Entiendo que quisimos echar a un jugador... y ahora, de repente, va a ser nuestro salvador." Source: infobae

The context

Villa left Boca in 2023 after being convicted of gender-based violence (suspended sentence) and later acquitted of sexual abuse in 2025. Source: infobae Boca is reportedly negotiating with Independiente Rivadavia for his return, with coach Rodolfo Arruabarrena and president Juan Román Riquelme leading the move. Source: infobae