Argentina‘s football community mourns the loss of Cesar Luis Menotti, the legendary coach who led the national team to victory in the 1978 World Cup.
The Argentinian Football Association (AFA) announced the sad news on Sunday, expressing their deep sadness at Menotti’s passing.
Menotti’s football journey began as a player for Rosario Central, Boca Juniors, and Santos. However, it was his coaching career that truly made him a revered figure in the sport.
He started his coaching tenure at Newell’s Old Boys and achieved success by winning the Argentinian championship with Huracan in 1973.
In 1974, Menotti took charge of the Argentinian national team as their head coach.
Under his guidance, Argentina clinched the World Cup title in 1978, marking a historic moment in the nation’s football history.
After leaving the national side following the 1982 World Cup, Menotti continued to make an impact as a coach.
His coaching prowess extended beyond Argentina’s borders. Menotti coached Barcelona, leading them to Copa del Rey success in 1983.
He also had stints with Atletico Madrid, Boca Juniors, Independiente, River Plate, Rosario Central, Penarol, Sampdoria, and two Mexican clubs, Puebla and Tecos.
Menotti’s contribution to football was not only recognized by the AFA but also by prominent figures in the sport.
Argentina’s 2022 World Cup-winning captain, Lionel Messi, expressed his condolences on social media, referring to Menotti as “one of the great references of our football.”
The loss of Menotti has left a void in the football community, with tributes pouring in from all corners.
Argentinian President Javier Milei expressed his deep sorrow, acknowledging Menotti’s role in bringing joy to the nation. AFA President Claudio Tapia paid tribute to Menotti’s legacy, stating that his memory would be cherished by all football lovers.
Article updated 2 months ago. Content is written and modified by multiple authors.
