Regarding the rumors that circulated about his arrival at the club, the coach was blunt: "Boca appeared after I was eliminated with San Lorenzo, not before. Just so you have an idea and understand the codes of soccer".
The experienced coach will have his third stint at the Ribera club, and his first challenge will be the Club World Cup
Regarding the rumors that circulated about his arrival at the club, the coach was blunt: "Boca appeared after I was eliminated with San Lorenzo, not before. Just so you have an idea and understand the codes of soccer".
Meanwhile, the team will travel this Sunday to the United States. Xeneize will make its debut on Monday, June 16, facing Benfica in Group C of the international tournament, and it will be the first major test of this new stage for Russo, who will seek to reposition the club at the top of world soccer.
Russo also targeted those who questioned his departure from Ciclón: "Many foolish things have been said. Many presidents who have been footballers know how to handle themselves, which is often very different from someone who hasn't. There was talk about dialogue, about manners... we always talked about soccer with him. I always talked to Román. We've maintained a relationship typical of people in soccer," he said with evident discomfort.
He added: "For example, Belloso. They have the same codes I have. They're people from soccer. I was happy that Boca played finals and Román was happy that I played them".
This Monday, Miguel Ángel Russo was officially announced as the new head coach of Boca during a press conference at La Bombonera, where he was accompanied by Juan Román Riquelme, the club's president. The coach, with an extensive career, formally began his third term at the helm of Xeneize, with a strong emotional charge and a clear objective: to return the team to the elite of international soccer, on the eve of its participation in the 2025 Club World Cup.
"I'm very happy because I know what Boca is and what we're going to compete for. Being here at this moment is huge and I'm happy," Russo said, visibly moved after Riquelme's introduction. He then added: "In recent years I've won many championships and we're going to compete. I know how to handle myself and what the fans need".
The coach was clear in acknowledging that the challenge ahead won't be easy and will require a great effort: "I know we have to work a lot". He also highlighted the good relationship he has with the current club president: "I've always maintained a good relationship with Riquelme". Regarding the major commitment approaching, the 2025 Club World Cup, Russo left no doubt: "Boca deserves it because of its greatness. May God grant me the opportunity to compete in this".