Miguel Ángel Russo (foto: Getty Images)
Boca Juniors coach Miguel Ángel Russo, 69, is in serious condition while receiving treatment for bladder and prostate cancer, according to Argentine media.
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According to reports from Argentina, Miguel Ángel Russo (69), current Boca Juniors coach and one of the country’s most respected football figures, is in serious condition and receiving medical treatment at home.
Russo has been battling bladder and prostate cancer since 2017, and has been on medical leave since late September. The illness has caused recurring complications, and he has reportedly been hospitalised three times in the past month.
The last time he managed Boca from the sidelines was on September 21, during a 2–2 draw against Central Córdoba — a match he spent entirely seated on the bench, a worrying sign for those close to him.
Support from staff and players
After Boca Juniors’ 5–0 win over Newell’s Old Boys, assistant coach Claudio Úbeda, who has been leading the team in Russo’s absence, dedicated the victory to his mentor.
“We dedicate this win to Miguel, who was surely watching us on TV. Even if he’s not physically here, he’s aware of everything that’s happening. We all love him and hope he recovers soon,” said Úbeda.
Team captain Leandro Paredes echoed the sentiment:
“This is an important win for all of us, and we dedicate it to Miguel. He’s the heart of our team. It’s hard to see what he’s going through — we’re sending him a big hug.”
A club legend in every sense
Russo’s current spell marks his third time in charge of Boca Juniors.
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In his first tenure (2007), he guided Boca to Copa Libertadores glory after defeating Grêmio, before falling to AC Milan in the FIFA Club World Cup final.
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During his second spell (2020–2021), he led Boca to the Superliga title, the Copa de la Liga Profesional, and reached the Libertadores semi-finals against Santos.
Russo remains one of the most respected coaches in South American football, admired for both his tactical knowledge and his resilience off the pitch.