Boca Juniors Mourns teh Loss of Copa Libertadores-Winning Coach Miguel Ángel Russo
Buenos Aires, Argentina - Miguel Ángel Russo, the coach who led Boca Juniors to their last Copa Libertadores title in 2007, has died at the age of 69. The Argentine football club and multiple news outlets confirmed his passing on Wednesday, October 8th, following a battle with prostate cancer sence 2017. Russo had been on medical leave since late September, receiving treatment at his home.
Russo’s death marks a significant loss for Argentine football and particularly for Boca Juniors, where he enjoyed a celebrated career spanning multiple tenures.His 2007 Copa Libertadores victory remains a cherished memory for the club’s passionate fanbase, representing their most recent triumph in South America’s premier club competition.
Beyond his Libertadores success, Russo twice returned to manage Boca Juniors, first from 2020 to 2021, securing both the Argentine title (2020/21) and the Professional League Cup (2020). He began a further cycle with the club in May of this year.
Throughout his career, Russo also managed lanús, Estudiantes, Rosario Central, Vélez Sarsfield, Racing, Colón, and San Lorenzo in Argentina. He extended his coaching career internationally, leading Colombian side Millonarios and Paraguayan club Cerro Porteño.
Boca Juniors released a statement expressing their deep sadness, noting that Russo “leaves an indelible mark on our institution and will always be an example of joy, cordiality and effort.” The club extended its condolences to his family and loved ones.
– Boca Juniors (@BocaJrsOficial) October 8, 2025