For Chimy Ávila, the choice is between brother and club — and Boca looms

While Boca Juniors confirmed the signing of Enner Valencia on Thursday, interest in Ezequiel Ávila remains alive. The club and head coach Rodolfo Arruabarrena are looking to add attacking options, though they first sought to sign a target man before turning their attention to Chimy. Amid Boca’s strong interest, with the player waiting in Spain and his name also linked with Rosario Central, his brother Gastón posted a suggestive message on social media that could be tied to the forward’s decision.

Gastón Ávila has played for Boca and even made his professional debut there, but he has always been identified with Rosario Central, where he is from—just like his brother. Chimy also holds affection for the Canalla club, though his history with Boca is significant: he came through their youth system and maintains ties with several figures from that period.

That background makes the defender’s recent message particularly pointed. “Choosing with the heart takes courage—I’ve always heard that and have always been happy,” he wrote alongside a yellow-and-blue heart. The post quickly drew attention given the context and the growing debate over Chimy’s future.

The timing of the message coincides with the dilemma facing the striker. On one side, he has the chance to play alongside his brother at the club he feels a special bond with. On the other, Boca offers a path where he also came through the youth ranks and shared a team with Leandro Paredes, now captain and a World Cup winner with the Xeneize.

Though the club’s leadership first wanted to finalize Valencia’s arrival before addressing the Ávila situation, the lack of progress in recent hours does not mean the deal is off the table. In fact, those close to the player have been clear about the interest: “He’ll return immediately if there’s an agreement.” With Boca still monitoring, Central playing its hand, and Chimy awaiting a decision on his future, the stage is set for a high-stakes choice.

The contrast between the two clubs—one tied to family and roots, the other to legacy and ambition—has never been sharper. For Chimy, the decision is no longer just about football.