Johan Cruyff, football legend, dies at the age of 68.

The Holland football legend Johan Cruyff has died of cancer at the age of 68. The Dutchman, who on three occasions was voted the world player of the year, guided Holland to the World Cup final in 1974 and as a manager he spent eight years in charge of Barcelona.

“On March 24 2016 Johan Cruyff (68) died peacefully in Barcelona, surrounded by his family after a hard fought battle with cancer. It’s with great sadness that we ask you to respect the family’s privacy during their time of grief,”

He was regarded as one of the game’s greatest players. He led Ajax to three consecutive European Cups from 1971 to 1973 and was the linchpin for Holland as they were beaten in the final of the 1974 World Cup by West Germany. During the tournament his eponymous turn was first seen against Sweden and soon copied the world over.

By then he had joined Barcelona for a world record fee. He went on to become a huge favourite at the Camp Nou, eventually coaching the Catalan club to a first European Cup triumph in 1992 as well as winning four successive La Liga titles between 1991 and 1994.

Rest In Peace

Oh lord, I didnt expect that at all. What a fantastic player he was, Football someone important, he will be missed. RIP...

Very sad. RIP.

RIP legend

RIP

One of the greatest players ever, not to mention coach. RIP

very sad day. Rest in Peace Legend Cruyff

Should get his statue in front of the Camp Nou, sad day for Football but even more for Ajax and Barca fans. Rip

Rip legend

A true legend. RIP

Wow never saw this coming :( RIP

It's massive news. Can't describe enough of his influence.

RIP.

Very sad, may he rest in peace. :(

RIP.

Matt Doyle wrote a great piece on Cruyff here:

http://www.mlssoccer.com/post/2016/03/24/armchair-analyst-explaining-legacy-johan-cruyff