Early Career and Move to Europe
Leonardo `El Flaco` Balerdi, born near Cordoba, Argentina, had a brief but impactful start at Boca Juniors before catching the eye of European clubs. Despite limited appearances, his talent prompted Borussia Dortmund to sign him in 2019 for €16 million. Balerdi harbors a dream for the Argentina national team to someday play in his hometown area. While Boca remains his boyhood club, where he transitioned from a defensive midfielder to a central defender, he is currently one of the most sought-after defenders on the market, and Marseille recognizes his value.
Handling Pressure and Coach`s Support
Despite being a key figure and even captain at Marseille, his readiness for such a role has been debated by some fans, questioning his ability to handle the pressure. However, Balerdi has consistently shown faith in himself, backed by unwavering support from his coaches, including Igor Tudor, Roberto De Zerbi, and Lionel Scaloni for the national team. This support mirrors the dedication he showed from a young age, leaving home for Boca`s academy with his mother`s encouragement, a moment underscored by listening to the song `Princesa` by Las Pastillas del Abuelo, which speaks of journeys and hope.
Three-Man Defense and Versatility
Balerdi seamlessly integrated into the heart of Marseille`s defense, becoming indispensable, particularly under Igor Tudor during the 2022-23 season. He played nearly every game, gaining crucial consistency and confidence from the Croatian coach. Juventus sees this connection as a potential advantage in the transfer race, although they face competition from clubs like Roma. Balerdi is highly versatile, capable of playing any position in a three-man defense, and is actively involved in build-up play. While not a frequent goalscorer, he did net a powerful and memorable long-range strike against Monaco in January 2024.
What Lies Ahead?
The future remains uncertain as the summer transfer window is just beginning. His national team career, after a long gap, has seen a resurgence since October 2023, with Scaloni giving him more opportunities. This increased visibility has helped introduce him to many Argentine fans previously unfamiliar with his play in Ligue 1. Balerdi, who holds both Argentine and Italian passports, is known for his quick reactions, defensive solidity in one-on-one situations, and ability to distribute the ball effectively from the back. A move to Serie A would represent a significant challenge and a chance to further prove his maturity, provided Marseille is willing to let him go.
