Share

Dutch legend diagnosed with lung cancer

Madrid - Johan Cruyff, one of soccer's greatest players and most influential coaches, has been diagnosed with lung cancer, according to reports in Spanish media on Thursday.

Cruyff's foundation could not immediately confirm the reports of his illness but said they were planning to publish a news release later on Thursday.

Cruyff had been diagnosed with the illness this week at a clinic in Barcelona and was having tests to determine the seriousness of his condition, according to the reports, which did not identify the source of the information.

The 68-year-old, who won the Ballon d'Or three times, helped Ajax win three European Cups in a row in the early 1970s before joining Barcelona and leading the Catalan club to their first La Liga title in nearly 15 years in 1974.

After stints at other clubs including Los Angeles Aztecs, Washington Diplomats and Levante, Cruyff returned to Ajax before ending his playing career at bitter rivals Feyenoord.

Cruyff also led the Netherlands playing the 'Total Football' he would later refine and make his own as a coach to the 1974 World Cup final, where they lost 2-1 to West Germany.

In 1999, Cruyff was voted European Player of the Century.

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
25% - 1273 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1471 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2250 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE