The Argentine Football Association announced on Sunday that Cesar Luis Menotti, the former World Cup winning coach who led Argentina to victory in 1978, had passed away at the age of 85. Menotti, who had a successful playing career before transitioning into coaching, began his coaching journey with Newell’s Old Boys and went on to win the Argentine championship with Huracan in 1973.
In 1974, he was appointed as head coach of the Argentine national team and guided them to victory at the World Cup four years later. He was affectionately called “Flaco querido” by many in the football community and is remembered for his legacy beyond Argentina. Menotti coached clubs like Barcelona, Atletico Madrid, Boca Juniors, and River Plate among others during his illustrious career.
After leading Argentina to World Cup victory in 1978, Menotti left the national team following the 1982 World Cup. However, his impact on football extended far beyond Argentina’s borders as he found success with various clubs across Europe and Mexico. His passing marks the end of an era for Argentine football as he will be remembered as one of their most successful and influential coaches.
The football community mourned Menotti’s passing with many paying tribute to his contributions to the sport. “He was a great coach who always put his players first,” said Lionel Messi of Barca where Menotti coached for several seasons.
“Flaco querido” will always be remembered as one of the greatest coaches in Argentine football history. His legacy will live on through all those players he helped grow into world-class stars today.
