Johan Neeskens, former Netherlands and Ajax midfielder, dies aged 73

Johan Neeskens, the ex-Netherlands international, has passed away at the age of 73. The midfielder played a key role in the era known for pioneering "total football" and was a member of the squad that made it to the World Cup finals two times in a row during the 1970s.

The Dutch Football Association (KNVB) expressed in a statement: “We were deeply saddened to learn this morning that Johan Neeskens has unexpectedly died at the age of 73. He had been in Algeria for the past few days, engaged in the KNVB's World Coaches program when he fell ill. Sadly, despite medical assistance, he could not be saved.”

Neeskens earned 49 appearances for the Netherlands and scored a penalty just two minutes into the 1974 World Cup final, putting his team ahead against West Germany, who ultimately triumphed with a 2-1 victory. Four years later, the Netherlands faced another defeat in the final, losing 3-1 after extra time to Argentina. At the club level, he played for Ajax, where he achieved success with three European Cups and two league titles, and later spent time at Barcelona. He eventually moved to the United States, joining the New York Cosmos and the Kansas City Comets.

The Dutch Football Association stated, “No words can truly express the depth and shock of this loss. We are thinking of his wife Marlis, his children, family, and friends during this difficult time. The world is bidding farewell not just to an exceptional athlete, but also to a kind-hearted, dedicated, and remarkable individual.”

Ronald Koeman, the coach of the Netherlands, referred to him as “a little guy who was a major inspiration for me.” He continued, “When you were a kid playing soccer on the streets, you would ask, ‘Who wants to be Cruyff? Who wants to be [Willem] van Hanegem?’ For me, I aspired to be like Johan Neeskens.”

Ajax expressed their sorrow on X, stating: "We are heartbroken to learn of Johan Neeskens' passing. Our condolences go out to his family during this difficult time. Rest in peace, Ajax legend." Barcelona, reflecting on the club's identity, referred to Neeskens as "a blaugrana icon who will always hold a place in our hearts. Rest in peace."