Former Real Madrid, Roma and Argentina midfielder Fernando Gago suffered a shocking heart attack during a post-match press conference.
Gago is currently the head coach of Universidad de Chile and was speaking after a 2-0 win over O’Higgins when he started clutching his chest.
The 40-year-old drank some water before abandoning his media duties.
His club later reported he’d suffered a minor heart attack in a statement.
Gago heart attack confirmed
They wrote: “He is in good condition.
“We inform you that our coach, Fernando Gago, is undergoing a series of cardiovascular tests and will not lead training today.
“Fernando Gago is in good condition and is being attended by our medical staff.”
According to Chilean outlet TNT Sports, the 61-time Argentina international had already felt some discomfort before the match against O’Higgins, shortly before heading to the stadium.
However, Gago prioritised the match, despite being advised to consult a doctor.
He managed to finish the game, but the pain intensified, which became evident in the post-match press conference.
Gago immediately decided to consult a doctor and was diagnosed with a cardiovascular problem that required surgery.
Gago surgery update
The hospital that operated on Gago have since given a promising update.
“Clínica Alemana reports that patient Fernando Rubén Gago was admitted in the early hours of Thursday, June 19, after suffering an acute myocardial infarction (heart attack),” they wrote.
“Upon admission, he underwent a procedure to treat coronary artery disease caused by the blockage of an intermediate arterial branch, which is essential for adequate blood supply to the heart.
“An angioplasty was performed with the implantation of an intracoronary stent, a procedure that successfully restored normal blood flow.
“The patient is in good spirits and, in the coming hours, will begin cardiac rehabilitation, which consists of progressively resuming physical activity.”
Who is Fernando Gago?
Gago was known as a classy operator during his playing career and joined Real Madrid from Boca Juniors in 2007 with a big reputation.
However, the defensive midfielder didn’t make it at the Bernabeu and injuries hampered his career.
He showed great form at Valencia and Roma despite little playing time, yet he still managed to rack up 61 Argentina appearances.
Retiring in 2017, he’s since managed a number of huge sides in South America, including Boca and Guadalajara.
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