Chelsea midfielder Valentín Barco has revealed his ambition to return to Boca Juniors, the Argentine club where he began his professional journey, raising fresh questions about his long-term future at Stamford Bridge under manager Xabi Alonso.

According to Football London on Thursday, November 5, 2026, the 22-year-old is keen to represent Boca again after struggling to establish himself as a regular member of Chelsea’s first team. He joined the Premier League side from Strasbourg in a £34 million transfer but has managed only one Premier League start since his arrival.

Competition for places in Chelsea’s midfield has made it difficult for Barco to secure consistent playing time. Jordan Henderson, Romeo Lavia, Reece James and Moisés Caicedo are among the players competing for positions, leaving the Argentine with limited opportunities to demonstrate his abilities.

Barco enjoyed a more encouraging period at Strasbourg, where he previously worked under Liam Rosenior. His move to England, however, has brought a different challenge, with limited involvement preventing him from building the momentum needed to become an established first-team player.

Speaking during an interview with the Edul Brothers, the midfielder discussed his ambitions and explained why returning to Boca remains an important personal objective.

“I want to win titles, be important, repay the fans for all their love. It's something I feel I owe. I'm taking responsibility for my past; I'm going to come back,” Barco said.

He also reflected on his emotional connection with Boca, having joined the club’s youth system when he was nine years old. The midfielder explained that leaving an institution where he had spent much of his childhood was difficult, even though he believes the decision was necessary for his development.

“I was at the club since I was nine; those 35 games were a dream. It all happened so fast; it was hard to leave, but I think I made the right decision,” he added.

His latest comments reflect the affection he has maintained for Boca since moving to Europe. They also revisit feelings he expressed during his final months at Strasbourg, before completing his transfer to Chelsea.

Chelsea recruited Barco alongside Emmanuel Emegha in a combined deal reportedly worth £60 million. However, neither player has so far secured a significant role in Alonso’s first-team plans.

Despite the midfielder’s limited involvement, Alonso is reportedly impressed by his competitive mentality. Barco could still receive more opportunities if Chelsea face a demanding schedule, particularly if they qualify for European competition next season.

For now, there is no indication that an immediate departure has been agreed. Although returning to Boca remains part of his long-term ambitions, another European club would reportedly be a more likely destination if he leaves Chelsea in the near future.

Barco’s future will depend partly on how his playing situation develops at Stamford Bridge. More regular opportunities could help him establish himself, while continued competition may force him to consider alternatives. His desire to return to Boca is clear, but the timing of such a move remains uncertain.