Six months ago, Fernando Gago shocked everyone by leaving the Chivas project to follow his dream of coaching Boca Juniors, his lifelong club. In a recent interview, the former Argentine player broke his silence and explained the circumstances behind his unexpected departure from Club Guadalajara.

The Key Moment in the Decision

In October, just days before the much-anticipated Clásico Tapatío, it was revealed that Gago would not continue as the coach of Rebaño Sagrado, after receiving an offer from the Xeneizes. While rumors about Boca Juniors' interest had been circulating strongly, the Argentine coach clarified that he was unaware of the club’s intentions until they contacted him directly.

"I want to clear something up that I’ve never mentioned before. The contact came on a Tuesday. I had my first meeting with Boca Juniors at that time, although it had been talked about for two weeks, but I didn’t know anything," Gago explained in an interview with the Fútbol 12 program on ESPN.

The coach insisted that he had no prior communication with Boca’s officials, and when the offer finally came, he did not hesitate to make a quick decision. "They called me on Tuesday, I immediately hung up, went to talk to the sporting director of Chivas. I had a release clause that applied if either Chivas fired me or I decided to leave. I paid the clause, and the next day I was negotiating my contract with Boca," he added.

Why Choose Boca Juniors Over Chivas?

When asked about the reason for leaving a team like Chivas, Gago had no doubts. Even though his departure happened mid-tournament, the Argentine coach didn’t think twice. "This is my place, my home. I grew up here from the age of eight. I’ve experienced amazing moments and some not so good, but I’ve always enjoyed being here," he confessed.

However, the call from Boca Juniors was an opportunity he couldn’t pass up. "In Boca, I spent many years of my life, lived everything that has to do with this club, and I know what it means. I enjoy it and understand that in this place, results matter," he concluded.

Fernando Gago made it clear that there was no conspiracy or betrayal behind his departure, but simply the chance to fulfill a personal dream by coaching one of Argentina’s most important clubs. His decision, although painful for many at Chivas, was an opportunity he couldn’t reject.

Gago’s future at Boca Juniors is yet to be written, but his time at Chivas will always be remembered as the start of his career as a coach in elite football.