You were gracious and simultaneously ethereal both on Wembley´s grass and in the locker-room. Have you brought so many innovations in football, offering not only the extra grace and beauty, but you gave to the fans of this sport, to the players and the coaches a fresh perspective and a new vision on how football can be played.
The nickname you were given by the media during your sporting career was the “Flying Dutchman” and it was quite successful, because it marked your sporting genius. Even that was not enough as your presence in the pitch and later as a coach, proved to be too little to describe your exuberant multifaceted personality.
During the years when you were a coach, new aspects of your rich character were accentuated.You have been an unconventional character and even a rebel, passionate with the sport and strong to confront every difficulty.
You have been a jewel for football and for sports, in general.
We express our deepest condolences to the family of JOHAN CRUYFF.
The world of sports mourns your loss.
ASSOCIATION OF VETERAN PLAYERS OF PANATHINAIKOS
