Dutch Legend and 'Total Football' Netherlands Team Member Receives Heartfelt Tributes Following Passing

Johan Neeskens, a pivotal figure in the development of "total football" in the 1970s as part of both the Ajax and Netherlands teams, has passed away at the age of 73, the Dutch football federation announced on Monday. The KNVB described Neeskens as a legend in the Dutch and international football community and confirmed that he had succumbed to an undisclosed illness on Sunday. Neeskens played a crucial role in Ajax's three consecutive European Cup triumphs in the early 1970s and was a key player in the 'Clockwork Oranje' Dutch squad that reached back-to-back World Cup finals in 1974 and 1978. His contributions to the sport will always be remembered and cherished by fans around the world.

He won 49 caps for the Netherlands.

"With his characteristic tackles, sublime insight and iconic penalties, (he) will forever remain one of the leading players that Dutch football has ever produced," said the KNVB.

After his playing career, Neeskens took part in coaching programmes around the world.

Known on the pitch for his uncompromising tackling, he also had a softer side, the KNVB said in its statement.

He was "a world citizen and a gentle family man who was proud of his children and grandchildren and who, until the very end, knew how to touch others with his love for football."

The KNVB said it would hold a minute's silence at the next two international matches against Hungary and Germany.

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Ajax wrote on X: "We are deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Johan Neeskens. Our thoughts are with his family at this time."

"Rest in peace, Ajax legend."

Barcelona, where he was known as "Johan The Second" (after Crujff), according to Dutch public broadcaster NOS, also tweeted condolences.

"A blaugrana legend who will forever be in our memory."

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Current Dutch coach Ronald Koeman described Neeskens as his "great idol".

Playing football in the street as a boy, Koeman said his friends either wanted to be Crujff or Dutch star Willem van Hanegem.

"But I wanted to be Neeskens," said Koeman, cited by local news agency ANP.

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"His style really appealed to me. His fight, for example. And he was also a great penalty specialist."

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)