Miguel Ángel Russo, Boca Juniors manager, dies aged 69 | OneFootball

Argentinian football mourns the passing of Miguel Ángel Russo, a historic coach and symbolic figure of Boca Juniors, who died at the age of 69.

Mourning in Argentina: Miguel Ángel Russo, Boca Juniors coach, has died. He was 69 years old

The news was officially announced by the Buenos Aires club with a statement released on their official channels: “The Club Atlético Boca Juniors announces with deep sadness the passing of Miguel Ángel Russo. Miguel leaves an indelible mark on our institution and will always be an example of joy, humanity, and dedication. We stand by his family and loved ones in this difficult time. Farewell, dear Miguel.”

A farewell that affects all of South American football

According to Argentine sources, Russo was hospitalized due to complications related to a urinary infection. In the past, in 2017, he had successfully battled prostate cancer, returning regularly to coaching afterward.

The coach made his last appearance on the bench on September 21, before being replaced by assistant Claudio Ubeda. Since then, his health condition had progressively worsened.

A career of success and dedication

A former midfielder for Estudiantes de La Plata, Russo had a long and fulfilling coaching career. After starting on the bench of Rosario Central, he led historic clubs like Estudiantes, Vélez Sarsfield, San Lorenzo, Lanús, Millonarios, and especially Boca Juniors, with whom he wrote some of the most glorious pages of South American football.

The pinnacle of his career came in 2007 when he led Boca to win the Copa Libertadores, defeating Grêmio in the final.

An episode that remains in the fans' memory is from 2017, when – just a day after a chemotherapy session – he managed to lead Millonarios of Bogotá to the national title in Colombia, a gesture of courage and dedication that made him an example of strength and professionalism.

The return to Boca and his sporting legacy

In the summer of 2024, Russo returned to the Boca Juniors bench for his third stint leading the Xeneizes, with the aim of revitalizing the team after a difficult season. Despite recent physical challenges, he continued to closely follow the technical project, maintaining constant contact with the staff and players.

His name remains linked to a football philosophy based on seriousness, discipline, and passion. A respected coach by colleagues and fans, Russo represented a figure of great humanity in the South American football scene.

The condolences of the football world

In Argentina and South America, messages of condolence are multiplying. Numerous clubs, former players, and coaches have wanted to remember him as an impeccable professional and a man of values. Among the first tributes was that of Boca Juniors, which announced a period of mourning and the temporary suspension of all youth activities as a sign of respect.

The Argentine Football Association (AFA) also expressed its sorrow: “Russo was an example of courage and dedication to Argentine football. His contribution will remain in history.”

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇮🇹 here.