Farewell to Johan Neeskens: A football legend goes from us

Farewell to Johan Neeskens: A football legend goes from us

Dutch football is in mourning: Johan Neeskens, a legendary player and coach, died at the age of 73 while participating in a coaching project of the KNVB. This was announced on October 6, 2023. According to reports, Neeskens felt uncomfortable at the event and died a short time later. The communication of the Dutch Football Association on "X" describes this loss as an enormous shock for the football world and not only recognizes Neeskens as a athlete, but also as a committed and wonderful person.

Neeskens shaped the football game alongside sizes like Johan Cruyff in the 1970s. Together they played at Ajax Amsterdam, FC Barcelona and in the Dutch national team. With Ajax he celebrated the winning of the national champions' European Cup three times. The highlight of his national team career was two World Cup final participants, but the team was defeated. The final in 1974 against Germany is particularly remembered, where he met for the Netherlands after a penalty in the second minute. This historical encounter, which ended with a 1: 2 defeat, shaped his sporting heritage.

from the place to the coaching chair

Neeskens was known for his tireless way of working on the pitch. He was considered a powerful and stylish player. "I always liked to play with style - to win," he said once. This philosophy also accompanied him in his coaching career after his active time. He took over various coaching positions, including as an assistant coach of the Dutch national team and at renowned clubs such as FC Barcelona. In the 1990s he also campaigned for coaching training and was most recently active as part of the "World Coaches" project.

The football community has not only lost a great athlete, but a passionate ambassador for the game. Neeskens is described as a heart person who lived with full commitment to football. His career lasted for several decades, and despite the success in football, he always remained modest and humble. His achievements on and off the square are valued by many and will live on the memory of the fans. You can find more on this topic in a detailed report abeits.at .