Argentina's iconic World Cup-winning coach Cesar Luis Menotti has left a lasting legacy in football with his stylish influential approach.
Argentina's FIFA World Cup-winning head coach, Cesar Luis Menotti who passed away at the age of 85 leaves behind a storied legacy in the world of football.
Known affectionately as El Flaco (the Skinny One), Menotti's philosophy and style left an indelible mark on the sport.
Here are five essential aspects of his life and career that football fans should know.
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1. World Cup triumph on home soil
Menotti is most famously known for leading Argentina to their first World Cup victory in 1978.
The tournament, held in Argentina, saw the national team secure a thrilling 3-1 victory against the Netherlands in the finals after extra time.
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This victory not only cemented Menotti's status as a national hero but also set the stage for Argentina's future successes in world football.
2. Philosophy of attractive football
Menotti was a staunch advocate of playing attractive, offensive football, a style that was both engaging for the spectators and effective on the pitch.
His philosophy was rooted in the belief that football should be entertaining a vision that influenced his tactics during his tenure as head coach.
This approach earned him the nickname 'El Flaco' (The Slim One), and his legacy of attractive play continues to influence coaches around the world.
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3. Influential mentor to Maradona
Menotti played a pivotal role in the early career of Diego Maradona, one of football's greatest ever players.
He gave Maradona his debut in the national team in 1977 when he was just 16 years old. Although he controversially left Maradona out of the 1978 World Cup squad, Menotti later managed him during the 1982 World Cup and at Barcelona.
Their time together at Barcelona culminated in winning the Copa del Rey in 1983.
4. A varied and extensive coaching career
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Beyond the national team, Menotti had a rich and varied coaching career at the club level.
He managed 16 different teams, including stints at Barcelona and Atletico Madrid.
His influence was not limited to Argentina as he also had an impact in Spain and even took on the role of managing the Mexican national team.
5. Contributions off the pitch
Menotti's impact on football extended beyond his managerial duties.
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Before his death he served as the Director of National Teams for Argentina where he continued to influence the strategic direction and development of football in the country.
His commitment to the sport was evident in his active participation in football administration demonstrating his dedication to nurturing the next generation of talent.
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