The Argentine coach Miguel Ángel Russo passed away this Wednesday, October 8, 2025, in Buenos Aires, at the age of 69. The cause of death was complications arising from prostate cancer, a disease he had already battled in 2017. Russo had been leading Boca Juniors since June of this year and had been away from activities since September due to health issues.
The club issued a statement on Monday informing about the coach’s home hospitalization, with a reserved prognosis. The Boca Juniors medical team was closely following the case, along with Russo’s family.
The news generated immediate repercussions in South American football, with tributes from players and officials.
Career in Argentine football
Russo began his career as a player at Newell’s Old Boys, where he played for over a decade. As a coach, he took charge of various clubs in Argentina, winning significant titles.
In 2007, he led Boca Juniors to victory in the Copa Libertadores, one of the greatest achievements of his career. Later, he managed teams like Vélez Sarsfield and Lanús, where he lifted the Argentine Championship in 2007.
History of the illness
The prostate cancer diagnosis came in 2017, while Russo was coaching Millonarios in Colombia. At that time, he paused activities for treatment and overcame the disease after sessions of chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
In September 2025, a urinary tract infection worsened the condition, leading to his withdrawal from Boca Juniors. The coach had been receiving home care since then, with constant monitoring.
The cancer recurrence affected the bladder and lungs, complicating recovery. Specialists note that this type of tumor requires ongoing surveillance, even after initial remission.
Reactions at Boca Juniors
Boca Juniors players dedicated the 5-0 victory over Newell’s Old Boys on Sunday to the sidelined coach. Captain Leandro Paredes mentioned support for the coach during the post-match interview.
Assistant Claudio Úbeda took over interim duties and kept Russo informed about training sessions and tactical decisions. Úbeda emphasized daily contact with the coach, who watched the matches on television.
- Dedication of the victory to Russo, who leads the group despite the difficulties.
- Constant contact to share training updates.
- Love and wishes for a quick recovery expressed by the coaching staff.
International achievements
Russo expanded his career beyond Argentina, coaching Millonarios between 2017 and 2018. There, he won the 2018 Colombian Championship, despite the oncological treatment.
At Vélez Sarsfield in 2011, he led the team to the Argentine Clausura title. These victories solidified his reputation as a versatile strategist.
His return to Boca in 2025 aimed to revive the team’s performance in the Argentine league. Under his initial command, the club recorded eight wins in 12 matches.
Moment of withdrawal
The official Boca Juniors statement detailed the health status on Monday. Russo was under home medical care, with a dedicated team.
The board prioritized the family’s privacy during the period. The club suspended public activities related to the coach to respect the moment.
Legacy in the xeneize command
Russo managed Boca in two stints, totaling over 100 matches. His tactical philosophy emphasized solid defense and quick counterattacks, adapted to the current squad.
He integrated young prospects into the first team, such as the 25-year-old defender who stood out in the Libertadores. The impact of his tactical choices still influences the season’s planning.
The forced absence came after a positive streak, with Boca in second place in the championship. The assistant promised to maintain the guidelines set by Russo in upcoming commitments.
