Johan Neeskens, wey be one of the greatest midfielders for Netherlands and Ajax, don die at the age of 73. The Dutch football federation, KNVB, confirm the news on Monday.

Neeskens be part of the legendary Ajax and Netherlands teams of the 1970s, known for their ‘total football’ style. He play crucial role in Ajax winning three European Cup titles and two domestic league championships. He also play for Barcelona from 1974 to 1979, where he win the Copa del Rey and the European Cup Winners’ Cup.

For the Netherlands national team, Neeskens earn 49 caps and score 17 goals. He participate in two World Cup finals in 1974 and 1978, where the team finish as runners-up both times. In the 1974 World Cup final, he score a penalty to give Netherlands an early lead, but they eventually lose to West Germany.

Neeskens die in Algeria, where he was taking part in a coaching project organised by the KNVB. No cause of death has been announced yet. The KNVB express their deep sorrow, saying, “Words fail to capture the enormity and suddenness of this loss. Our thoughts are with his wife Marlis, his children, family and friends.”.

After his playing career, Neeskens transition into coaching, serving as an assistant coach for both the Netherlands and Australia. He also work as an assistant coach at Barcelona under Frank Rijkaard from 2006 to 2008.

Ajax and Barcelona have both paid tribute to Neeskens, remembering him as a legend and a wonderful person. Ajax say, “We are deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Johan Neeskens. Our thoughts are with his family at this time. Rest in peace, Ajax legend.”.