
Gago Returns to Coaching After Heart Attack: 'Life Has Given Me a Second Chance'
Fernando Gago, the Argentine former Roma midfielder, has returned to the bench following a severe acute myocardial infarction that struck him on 18 June. Gago resumed his role as head coach of Universidad de Chile in a Copa Chile match against Union La Calera, which ended in a 0–1 defeat. His return drew widespread attention, marking his first public appearance and statements since the medical emergency. Gago revealed the circumstances of his heart attack for the first time. He initially dismissed the symptoms, waking that Thursday with discomfort he thought was muscular or related to a cough. After a match, he went to hospital where initial tests appeared normal, but further examination identified an obstructed artery. The diagnosis came as a shock: "If I had understood right away that it was something so serious, I would have had myself checked earlier," he explained. Speaking with emotion about his recovery and return, Gago said: "These are life situations you are never really prepared for. I have not yet fully realised what happened, but the most important thing is being able to return to the pitch. I am young and I feel I have a second chance to continue living." His recovery marks a significant milestone after weeks of enforced absence from football.


