‘With Me, He Was a Number 10’ – Former PSG Forward Carlos Bianchi Recounts Managing a Young Leandro Paredes at Boca Juniors

Former Paris Saint-Germain forward and Boca Juniors manager Carlos Bianchi provided an in-depth interview with Le Parisien. The Argentine discussed various topics, one being his thoughts on his compatriot and former player Leandro Paredes. 

Bianche managed the 26-year-old during the 2013-14 season, while Paredes was breaking through at Boca Juniors. The 71-year-old discussed how he wanted to mold a young Paredes to succeed Juan Román Riquelme as Boca Juniors number ten. 

“He has a different style from the usual recuperating midfielder. His characteristics are not those of a defensive player. He heals the pass well, but he is more in the distribution than the recovery,” Bianchi said.

“With me, he was a number 10. He played with Riquelme, whose last season was. They sometimes evolved together. He was more creative than defensive. He was starting his career, and he had the heavy task of succeeding Riquelme.”

Since coming to the French giants, Paredes has taken some time to find his footing, but under new manager Mauricio Pochettino, the midfielder has taken his form to another level. 

In the past, it was Marco Verratti and spare parts in the midfield. Now the 28-year-old has someone he can rely on in Paredes. The Argentina international played a significant role in PSG’s UEFA Champions League victory at the Camp Nou. 

Paredes registered one assist and made a key pass that eventually led to the second Kylian Mbappé goal. Paredes has become a vital piece for PSG heading forward. 

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Tags Boca Juniors Carlos Bianchi Leandro Paredes
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