According to "Varzesh 3", the latest chapter of this story was written with the Argentine club's epic ascent to the Copa Libertadores final, where Estudiantes defeated Flamengo at the Maracanã stadium in a penalty shootout. The La Plata club has advanced to the final of this major tournament for the first time since 2009, when it won the title with Verón on the pitch.
In the summer of 2006, 51-year-old Verón made the unexpected decision to leave European football and return home. Despite having better financial offers, he took the captain's armband of his childhood club and played a crucial role in Estudiantes winning the Torneo Apertura and subsequently the Libertadores. Although he retired from playing in 2012 and entered management, his attachment to the pitch led him to lace up his boots once again in 2013 and 2017, and he even cast a sidelong glance at a return in subsequent years.
Verón's legacy as club president extends far beyond the rectangular pitch. By implementing modern management models, he played a significant role in the reconstruction of the modern "UNO" stadium. After returning to the club presidency in 2024, Verón managed to create a structural transformation by drastically reducing debts, increasing commercial revenues, and winning three trophies in the past two years. Although his critical stances against the Argentine Football Association and protests against certain controversial decisions sparked debates and even brought suspensions for the team's managers and players, Estudiantes managed to continue its path to success relying on precise planning and Verón's management.
Now, as Palmeiras' opponent in the Libertadores final, Estudiantes has the opportunity to once again stand atop South American football after 17 years and write another glorious chapter in its history.
Source: Varzesh 3
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