Miguel Ángel Russo died at 69: farewell to a coach who left his mark.
Argentine soccer is in mourning. Miguel Ángel Russo died at the age of 69 , leaving behind a career marked by titles, affection, and a silent battle with cancer that he faced with fortitude for nearly a decade. His death, confirmed this Wednesday, has moved fans, colleagues, and sports figures throughout Latin America.
The news of Miguel Ángel Russo's death at the age of 69 shook the football world on Wednesday afternoon. The Boca Juniors coach, who had returned to the club mid-year, was under home confinement after a series of health relapses. His condition had worsened in recent weeks, forcing him to step back from professional activity.
The last match he officiated was a 2-2 draw against Central Córdoba at La Bombonera on September 21. Hours later, he was hospitalized due to medical complications . Although he was discharged, he was placed under observation for 72 hours . He has not returned to training since. The club had issued a statement on October 6 stating that Russo's prognosis was "reserved."
A life marked by football and resilience
A diagnosis of bladder and prostate cancer in 2017, while managing Millonarios of Colombia, was a turning point. However, far from retiring, Russo remained active. Amid treatment, he led the Colombian team to win the Finalization Tournament and the Superliga, proving that his connection with football was stronger than any adversity.
During his career, he managed clubs such as Lanús, Estudiantes, Vélez, Rosario Central, San Lorenzo, Racing, Alianza Lima, Cerro Porteño, and Al-Nassr. But it was at Boca where he achieved international recognition: the 2007 Copa Libertadores, with Juan Román Riquelme as his star, catapulted him into the hearts of Boca fans.
The link with Riquelme and his last stage at Boca
In 2019, Russo was the first manager chosen by Riquelme in his role as vice president. Together they won the 2019/20 Superliga and the Maradona Cup. After a stint in Saudi Arabia, he returned to Rosario Central and then to San Lorenzo, where he took over in October 2024. In June 2025, he returned to Boca Juniors to compete in the Club World Cup, with notable performances against Benfica and Bayern Munich, although the elimination against Auckland City marked the end of his tenure.
“Family comes first”
In his recent public appearances, Russo expressed his annoyance at the exposure of his health. "The only person who knows about his health is himself. If I'm working, it's because I feel good," he said after a match in Rosario. He valued the respect, especially the respect he received in Colombia, where he was treated with discretion and affection during his treatment.
A technician who transcended borders
Beyond his achievements in Argentina, Miguel Ángel Russo left a profound mark on South American football. His time with Millonarios of Colombia was not only successful on the sporting front, but also on the personal front. There, amid his cancer treatment, he received the support of an institution that shielded him from the media hype and supported him with respect. “In Colombia, there was total respect. They protected me a lot, and that made me feel better,” he declared in an interview, contrasting the exposure he experienced in his native country.
He also managed in Peru and Paraguay, where his understated style and leadership skills were appreciated by teams and managers. At every club he played for, Russo left his mark: not only with his results, but also with his team-building approach, his work ethic, and his sensitivity in difficult times.
