Fernando Gayoso, former Boca Juniors goalkeeping coach, dies at 55

Fernando Gayoso, a respected goalkeeping coach who worked with prominent Argentine clubs like Boca Juniors, Racing, Vélez, and Tigre, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 55. He had been hospitalized for several days at Sanatorio Mitre due to pneumonia.

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Today, May 26, someone who taught me everything in this life left, who fought with all his soul against everything and, above all, against this disease. You suffered a lot and yet you kept fighting. I always said that you were, are, and will be my idol, my example to follow, a highlander as you used to say, someone who never gave up.

Gayoso's health had been declining since March 2023, when he was diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), a progressive neurodegenerative disease. Despite his condition, he remained connected to Boca Juniors as the general coordinator of goalkeepers for the youth divisions and reserve team.

Throughout his career, Gayoso made a significant impact, particularly at Boca Juniors, where he was recognized for his work in preparing goalkeepers and his contributions during crucial moments, including penalty shootouts. He worked with notable players such as Agustín Rossi and Sergio Romero and was part of teams that reached key stages, like the 2023 Copa Libertadores final.

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You are everything to me, dad; today you are in heaven with mom.

His son, Franco Gayoso, shared an emotional tribute on social media, expressing his grief and remembering his father's resilience. "Today, May 26, someone who taught me everything in this life left, who fought with all his soul against everything and, above all, against this disease," Franco wrote. "You suffered a lot and yet you kept fighting. I always said that you were, are, and will be my idol, my example to follow, a highlander as you used to say, someone who never gave up."

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Take care of me, please. I love you and will miss you forever, dad. Our surname will remain in history for your achievements. You are now with mom resting in peace. Rest in peace, champion. Thank you for everything you gave to football, and to me my whole life. I love you.