Crew's Schelotto Bids Farewell to Boca

• Associated Press, Friday, April 20, 2007 2:57 PM

It was an emotional goodbye for Guillermo Barros Schelotto, who bid his beloved Boca Juniors farewell on Thursday before joining the Columbus Crew of MLS. In his 10 years at the Buenos Aires club, the 33-year-old Argentine helped the team win 15 major titles, including the Copa Libertadores on three occasions and the Toyota Cup twice.

"I'm happy and content to have played these past 10 years at Boca and to have won so very much," Schelotto said. "I, and I alone, decided to go play in the United States. Nobody else." The attacking midfielder's playing time had been scaled back in recent years due to the arrival of strikers Martin Palermo and Rodrigo Palacio. Nevertheless, Schelotto remained a favorite with Boca fans. Last weekend, during Boca's 1-1 draw against archrival River Plate, Schelotto played received only seven minutes of playing time, for which coach Miguel Russo was booed. "I'm leaving Boca but I carry the team in my heart," Schelotto said. He played 302 matches for the Argentine giant, scoring 87 goals.

Schelotto didn't disclose the terms of his contract with Columbus-he will not be a designated player-but he hopes to make his debut for the club on May 5. "It will be a beautiful experience living there," the Argentine told reporters. "I believe this league can figure among the best in the world within a few years." He revealed that his commitment lasts at least through December.

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