Drama in Chile: The former Real star suffered a heart attack

It all took place on the night of June 18-19, after his Universidad de Chile defeated O’Higgins 2-0. According to the reports of the Italian media, Gago felt the first symptoms, such as fatigue and discomfort, even before the match, but he decided to ignore them. He did the entire meeting, and after it the obligatory press conference.

His condition worsened and he was rushed to the hospital in Santiago around three in the morning. The doctors determined that the word about a heart attack, which was followed by an emergency surgical procedure during which a stent was implanted. The club issued an official statement: “Coach Fernando Gago underwent a series of cardiovascular tests and will not be training today. He is currently in good condition and is under the close supervision of our medical team.” While Gago is recovering, the team will be temporarily taken over by his assistant and former teammate. from the national team, Fabricio Coloccini.

A career marked by incredible struggle

This dramatic event is the last in a series of heavy blows that hit Gaga. Although he was one of the most talented midfielders of his generation, often compared to the legendary Fernando Redondo for his elegance and vision, his path was paved with serious injuries. It was they who prevented him from reaching the very top and forced him to end his playing career at the age of 34.

His medical record looks almost unreal: he has ruptured his Achilles tendon three times and torn ligaments in his knee twice. He would come back every time, showing incredible mental strength, but his body just couldn’t keep up.

His story became a synonym for struggle and perseverance, but also for the question “what could have been” if his health had failed him. Unfortunately, his fate was not in his favor even off the field. His father died of a stroke while Gago was playing a match for Boca, and years later, while he was leading Aldosivi as a coach, his brother also died of the same disease.

Gago started his career in Boca Juniors, where he made his debut in 2004 and quickly became a star. His talent was recognized by Real Madrid, who brought him in 2007 for 20 million euros. He spent five seasons in the jersey of the “royal club” and won two Spanish championship titles and the King’s Cup. After Madrid, he played for Roma and Valencia before returning to Argentina. He made 61 appearances for the national team, and the highlight was the Olympic gold in 2008 and the final of the World Cup in 2014, where Argentina lost to Germany in extra time.