Argentina’s first ever World Cup winning coach César Luis Menotti has passed away.
César Luis Menotti passed away on Sunday at 85 years of age. The former player turned coach was the first Argentine coach to ever win the World Cup with the national team, having lifted it in 1978 in Argentina.
Menotti played for Rosario Central and Boca Juniors in Argentina while also playing with Santos in Brazil. He first coached Newell’s Old Boys and was part of the Huracan team which won the Argentina championship in 1973 at club level.
The Argentina FA posted the following:
“The Argentine Football Association regrets to announce with great sadness the death of Cesar Luis Menotti, current director of the national teams and former World Cup winning coach of Argentina. Farewell, Flaco querido.”
He coached most of his career in South America but did coach FC Barcelona in Europe where he won the 1982-1983 Copa del Rey, the 1983 Copa de la Liga and the 1983 Supercopa de España.
After winning the 1978 World Cup with Argentina, Menotti also won the 1979 Youth Championship, which later became the FIFA U20 World Cup.
Lionel Messi was one of many who took to social media to pay tribute to the former great, posting the following on Instagram:
“One of the great references of our football has left us. Condolences to his family and loved ones. RIP.”
From everyone at Mundo Albiceleste, we would like to send our deepest condolences to his friends and family.
May God rest his soul.
Thank you for everything you have done beloved legend!
Happy he saw us lift our 3rd cup
He gave us our first World Cup and his teams played attractive, positive football. “Menottista” or a coach who adopted his style, has become a thing afterwards. “Menottismo,” emphasizes fluid passing, intelligent movement off the ball, and a style of play that encourages players to take risks and express themselves creatively on the field. His teams were known for their commitment to attacking football, pressing high up the pitch and building play from the back. All of this way before Guardiola, Bielsa, etc…
Rest in peace Maestro! Thank you for everything you did for Argentina’s football.
RIP legend.