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Edinson Cavani has paid tribute to former Boca Juniors manager, Miguel Angel Russo, who has died at the age of 69. The Argentinian enjoyed a lengthy managerial career which spanned more than three decades.

However, he was forced to step away from his day-to-day duties during his third tenure this year as a result of battling prostate cancer, which he was initially diagnosed with in 2017. His last game with the Buenos Aires-based club came in September, when Boca held Central Cordoba to a 2-2 draw in the Argentine Primera Division.

In his absence, Claudio Ubeda took charge of the club, as Russo remained in close contact with his coaching staff and the club's board. However, the club announced on Wednesday, October 9, that Russo had sadly passed away at the age of 69.

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In a statement, Boca Juniors wrote: "Until eternity. Miguel Angel Russo passed away, leaving an indelible mark. We are with his family and friends in this time of profound grief.

"Miguel Ángel Russo leaves behind much more at Boca than the fond memories of his triumphs as manager. What remains is his style and mannerisms, if he allows himself to use a discursive device he patented during his third and briefest stint at the club, to take on challenges, overcome limitations, and generate respect among both insiders and outsiders.

"He was passionate about his work, a tenacious fighter in all situations, a benchmark as a player first and a coach second. Until the very last day, he remained connected to his lifelong passion. His assistant, Claudio Úbeda, after the 5-0 win against Newell's Old Boys, said that the head of the team was well aware of everything.

"This Wednesday, we learned of Miguel's passing at the age of 69, after more than half a century of involvement in professional football. His immediate family will be particularly saddened, as will the extended family that became the Xeneize people."

Elsewhere, Cavani also took to social media to share a personal tribute to the late manager, writing: "Thank you Miguel for showing us all such an important value that is called 'courage.'"

After racking up more than 400 appearances for Estudiantes between 1975 and 1988, as well as a further 17 for the Argentina national team, Russo ventured into the world of football management in 1989. As well as stints with Estudiantes, Rosario Central and Al-Nassr, the former midfielder took charge of Boca Juniors on three occasions.

He first briefly took up tenure with the club in December 2007, before returning between January 2020 and August 2021 - during which time, he managed to guide Boca to an Argentine Primera Division title and a Copa de la Liga Profesional.

He then returned to the club in May 2025, overseeing the first-team until October 8, when he had to step back as a result of his illness. Cavani, meanwhile, joined the club in 2023 in a free transfer from Valencia.

To date, the 38-year-old striker has managed 27 goals and three assists from 76 appearances for the club. The Uruguayan's contract is set to expire at the end of 2026.

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