Miguel Angel Russo dead at 69: Boca Juniors manager and Argentinian football legend dies after long battle with cancer

MIGUEL ANGEL RUSSO has tragically died at the age of 69 after a long battle with cancer.

The Argentine was devoted to football and spent 50 years as a player and then as a manager.

Russo was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina in 1958 and spent his whole playing career at Estudiantes.

Between 1975 and 1988, he made over 400 appearances for the club and won consecutive league titles in 1982 and 1983.

After hanging up his boots in 1988 he made the move to the dugout and managed the likes of Lanus, Estudiantes, Velez Sarsfield, Rosario Central and Boca Juniors.

He led Boca Juniors to their last Copa Libertadores in 2007 with a team that included stars such as Juan Roman Riquelme and Ever Banega.

Russo continued working after being diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2017.

His cancer was complicated by the condition of his bladder, and he underwent multiple treatments and setbacks.

He returned to Boca earlier for a third spell earlier this year, but took a medical leave of absence in late September.

Boca confirmed his passing on social media.

A statement read: “The Boca Juniors Athletic Club communicates with deep sadness the passing of Miguel Angel Russo.

“Miguel leaves an indelible mark on our institution and will always be an example of joy, warmth, and effort.

“We stand with his family and loved ones in this moment of pain.

“Forever with us, dear Miguel.”

His death spread quickly across South America and sparked an outpouring of tributes.

A club statement from Velez Sarsfield said: “With deep sorrow, we mourn the passing of Miguel Ángel Russo.

“A true gentleman, a lord in every sense of the word, who knew how to honour his ability as a coach twice at the helm of our team, where he led the Fortin to the title of the 2005 Clausura.

“Farewell forever, Miguel.”

The Argentine national team held a moment’s silence in his honour on the training pitch.

A statement said: “Our utmost respect to the memory of Miguel Angel Russo and a warm embrace to his family, loved ones, and teammates from Boca Juniors.”

San Lorenzo wrote: “San Lorenzo deeply mourns the passing of Miguel Angel Russo, who coached the club on two occasions and is a legend of Argentine football.

“We stand with his family and loved ones during this very sad time. Forever, Miguelo.”

Premier League icon and former Argentina star Sergio Aguero paid tribute to Russo and sent his condolences to his loved ones.

He posted: “A big hug to all the family and friends of Miguel Angel Russo, a passionate football lover respected and loved by all. RIP.”

Russo’s football legacy will live on through his son Ignacio, 24, who currently plays as a forward for Tigre on loan from Rosario Central.