Fernando Gago Hospitalized After Match, Undergoes Emergency Surgery in Chile

Fernando Gago, the former Real Madrid and Argentina midfielder who now coaches Universidad de Chile, suffered a heart attack after a match and was rushed to surgery in Chile. The club said he is “in good condition” after the emergency procedure.

The incident happened on Tuesday, June 19, 2026, after Universidad de Chile’s 2-0 win over O'Higgins. Local media reported that Gago was taken to a medical center and operated on in recent hours.

In a formal statement, the club said, “We inform that our coach, Fernando Gago, is undergoing a series of cardiovascular tests and will not lead training.” It added that he is being cared for by the medical staff. Gago will miss the team’s next matches and will not be on the bench for Sunday’s Chilean Cup game against Santiago Wanderers.

Assistant coach Fabrizio Coloccini will take over temporarily. Gago is best known for his playing career, including 121 appearances for Real Madrid from 2006-07 through 2011-12, two Spanish league titles, and 61 caps for Argentina, with whom he reached the 2014 World Cup final. He also played for Valencia, Boca Juniors, Vélez, and Roma.