Manager Edinson Cavani has expressed his condolences following the news of former Boca Juniors manager Miguel Ángel Russo, who has passed away at the age of 69. The Argentine tactician had a prolific managerial career spanning over 30 years.
However, he was forced to step back from regular duties during his third stint as manager this year as he continues to battle prostate cancer, which was first diagnosed in 2017. His last match in charge of the Buenos Aires side took place in September, when Boca won a 2-2 stalemate against Central Córdoba in the Argentine Primera División. During his absence, Claudio Ubeda took over the reins of the team, and Russo maintained regular communication with the coaching staff and the club’s hierarchy.
The club announced on Wednesday, October 9, that Russo had tragically passed away at the age of 69. Boca Juniors said in an official statement: “Forever. Miguel Ángel Russo left this world with an indelible mark. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this time of deep sadness.”
“Miguel Ángel Russo leaves more at Boca than fond memories of his triumphs as a manager. All that remains is his style and manners. If he can use the means of speech he patented during his third and shortest spell at the club to take on challenges, overcome limitations and create respect among insiders and outsiders.”
“He was passionate about his job, was a tenacious fighter in any situation, and had benchmarks first as a player and secondly as a coach. Until his last day, he retained his lifelong passion. His assistant Claudio Ubeda said after the 5-0 win over Newell’s Old Boys that the team boss knew everything well.”
“This Wednesday, we learned that Miguel passed away at the age of 69 after more than half a century in professional football. His immediate family will be particularly saddened, as will the extended family that has become the Zenize people.”
Former Manchester United star Cavani also paid a personal tribute to the late manager on social media, writing: “Thank you, Miguel, for showing us all the important value of courage.”
After playing more than 400 games for Estudiantes from 1975 to 1988, as well as 17 appearances for the Argentina national team, Russo entered the world of football management in 1989. In addition to playing for Estudiantes, Rosario Central and Al Nasr, the former midfielder also managed Boca Juniors three times.
He had a brief spell at the club in December 2007, before returning between January 2020 and August 2021, during which time he successfully led Boca to the Argentine Primera Division title and the Copa de la Liga Pro championship. He then returned to the club in May 2025.
Meanwhile, Cavani joined the club on a free transfer from Valencia in 2023. So far, the 38-year-old striker has scored 27 goals and provided three assists in 76 appearances for the club. The Uruguayan player’s contract is due to expire at the end of 2026.
