Argentine football is in mourning following the death of Miguel Ángel Russo, the highly respected Boca Juniors manager, who passed away on Wednesday at the age of 69.

Boca Juniors confirmed his death in an emotional statement expressing “profound sadness”, describing Russo as a man who “leaves an indelible mark on our club and will always be an example of joy, warmth, and dedication.”

Russo, who had been battling prostate cancer since 2017, was recently forced to step back from his coaching duties due to health complications. He last appeared on the touchline on 21 September, when Boca played a 2–2 draw against Central Córdoba in the Argentine Primera División.

In his absence, assistant coach Claudio Úbeda took charge of the team, although Russo reportedly remained in close contact with his coaching staff and the club hierarchy until his passing.

Boca and Uruguay striker Edinson Cavani paid tribute to his former coach, writing on Instagram:

 “Thank you, Miguel, for showing us all such an important value that is called ‘courage.’”

Russo enjoyed a distinguished managerial career, having managed clubs across Argentina, Colombia, Brazil, and Saudi Arabia, including Al-Nassr. He had three spells with Boca Juniors, leading the club to glory in the 2007 Copa Libertadores and the 2019–20 Argentine Superliga title. He also guided Boca to this year’s FIFA Club World Cup.

Before moving into management, Russo was a solid midfielder, making over 400 appearances for Estudiantes de La Plata and earning 17 caps for the Argentine national team.

His death marks the end of a remarkable career spanning over four decades, celebrated for both tactical brilliance and personal integrity.