After 15 years, we’re going to miss you, Riquelme.

After 15 years, we’re going to miss you, Riquelme.

After 15 years, we’re going to miss you, Riquelme.

After 15 years, we’re going to miss you, Riquelme.

In 1996, a lanky midfielder made his debut for Boca Juniors. 15 years later, he closes his Boca Juniors career. Losing to Corinthians in the Copa Libertadores wasn’t his ideal way to go out, but Juan Roman Riquelme has inspired a generation of Argentine fútbolistas. 

After the Libertadores final last night, Riquelme said, "I gave everything to Boca, I love this club with all my life, but I feel empty. I’ve reached the limit. I love and live for football, but I don’t have anything more to give. I want to go home to my kids, I will speak with them and ask if they want to see me playing more time, but it won’t be for Boca.“

And that was it. Whatever happens next, Riquelme will remain a centerpiece in the history of Argentine fútbol. We dug deep into our archives to pull out 28 minutes of footage that truly does justice to his career with Boca, Villarreal, and Argentina. Chau campeón… [posted by EB]