Johan Neeskens: A Silent Legend in Total Football

Heroes & Humans of Football

In this special bonus episode, Simon and Mehreen pay tribute to the legendary Dutch footballer Johan Neeskens, who passed away suddenly at the age of 73. They reflect on his footballing career, starting from his humble beginnings in post-war Netherlands to becoming a key player in Ajax’s dominant European team of the 1970s and a cult figure at FC Barcelona.

Johan Neeskens was known as the ultimate "hard man" on the pitch, with a football style rooted in toughness, brutal tackles, and the ability to slide in for a tackle like no one else. Despite his rough nature on the field, Neeskens was beloved for his humility and the passion he brought to every match. In this episode, Simon shares personal memories of Neeskens and highlights the emotional impact of his passing on the football world.

This episode captures the duality of Johan Neeskens: the fighter on the field and the humble coach who spent his later years giving back to underprivileged children in refugee camps around the world.

Timestamps:

• 00:36: Welcome and introduction
• 03:14: How Johan Neeskens’ death resonated across the football community
• 06:21: Johan Neeskens’ rough childhood and early career struggles
• 10:45: The rise of Johan Neeskens at Ajax and his defining role in total football
• 15:32: World Cup 1974 – Sliding into legend with a goal against Brazil
• 19:18: Neeskens’ move to FC Barcelona and the friendship with Johan Cruyff
• 23:42: Neeskens’ post-playing career and the heart-warming coaching roles with kids
• 27:48: His sudden death while on a coaching trip in Algeria
• 34:00: A legacy of humility, toughness, and lasting impact on the world of football

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