○On Wednesday, October 8, 2025, it was confirmed that current Boca Juniors coach Miguel Ángel Russo passed away at the age of 69.
The Argentine coach, who had been on sick leave since September, passed away due to complications from an illness he had been suffering from since 2017. His departure leaves a huge void in South American soccer, where his career, titles and leadership were recognized.
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A career filled with hardship and success
Russo was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2017 and has since faced multiple treatments, surgeries and recurrence. Despite this, he continued to coach at various clubs such as Millonarios, Rosario Central and Boca Juniors, winning national titles and the historic 2007 Copa Libertadores victory.
Boca’s last cycle and its legacy
In 2025, Russo was called up by coach Juan Roman Riquelme to return to Boca for his third spell as manager. Although his health has deteriorated in recent weeks, his influence on the team remains intact. He was replaced on an interim basis by Claudio Ubeda, but the club issued a statement regarding his condition and asked for respect and support.
Manage over 1,000 games and 12 titles
During his career, Miguel Ángel Russo coached more than 1,000 games for clubs in Argentina, Colombia, Mexico, Peru, Paraguay, Chile, Saudi Arabia and Spain. He won 12 official titles as a coach, including championships with Velez Sarsfield, Rosario Central and Millonarios. As a player he was a symbol of Estudiantes de la Plata, where he appeared in over 400 games.
Argentine football bids a sad farewell
Clubs such as Colon, Rosario Central and Estudiantes, as well as the AFA, expressed their sadness at Russo’s passing. CONMEBOL also published a farewell message in recognition of his contribution to Continental football. At Boca, players such as Leandro Paredes and Edinson Cavani dedicated recent victories to their manager as a sign of respect and affection.
An example of professionalism and humanity
Beyond the title, Russo will be remembered for his humility, leadership skills and dedication to the sport. At every club he has managed, he has left a mark not only on his results but also in the way he interacts with players, managers, fans and the way he works. His legacy goes beyond football and represents a culture of hard work and love of the game.
