Boca Juniors' Juan Roman Riquelme criticises Falcioni: He had me running like an idiot

Feb 2, 2012 12:55:00 PM

Despite finishing unbeaten and champions in the 2011 Apertura, the outspoken playmaker could not hide his frustration at Boca's less than exciting play under the coach

The fragile peace treaty between Boca Juniors idol Juan Roman Riquelme and coach Julio Cesar Falcioni appears to have broken down, after the No. 10 criticised his trainer's style of play and approach to football.

The pair are known not to see eye-to-eye, but agreed prior to the 2011 Apertura to put their differences aside in order to ensure stability at the Bombonera. The compromise appeared to be working on the field, as the Xeneixe romped to the title in December to ensure their first championship since 2008.

Speaking on Wednesday evening, however, Roman threatened to attract the ire of his coach by accusing Falcioni of valuing results over decent play.

"Eight months ago, Falcioni made me run all over the place alone like an idiot and I said nothing," the 33-year-old fired to reporters in a press conference.

"Our team has the obligation to start playing better, because the luck cannot last forever."

A source close to Riquelme went even further in his criticisms, telling Ole "while one thinks about creating, the other is only interested in destroying." Falcioni, meanwhile, gave an ambiguous response when asked about the star's comments.

"I never comment on other people's opinions. The only thing we know is that we are the unbeaten champions, who have not been beaten in 28 games."

Boca are back in competitive action on Thursday, when they face Santamarina in a Copa Argentina clash.

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