World Cup-winning coach, Cesar Luis Menotti, who led Argentina to victory in 1978, has passed away at 85.
The Argentine Football Association announced his death on Sunday.
Menotti, a former player for Rosario Central, Boca Juniors, and Santos, started his coaching journey at Newell’s Old Boys.
He clinched the Argentine championship with Huracan in 1973 before assuming the role of head coach for the Argentine national team in 1974.
“The Argentine Football Association regrets to announce with great sadness the death of Cesar Luis Menotti, current director of the national teams and former World Cup winning coach of Argentina. Farewell, Flaco querido,” the governing body said in a statement.
After departing from the national team following the 1982 World Cup, Menotti took charge of Barcelona and led them to Copa del Rey triumph in 1983.
“One of the great references of our football left us. Condolences to his family and friends, may he rest in peace,” Argentina’s 2022 World Cup winning captain Lionel Messi said on social media.
Menotti’s coaching career also included stints with Spanish club Atletico Madrid, Argentine sides Boca Juniors, Independiente, River Plate, and Rosario Central, Uruguayan side Penarol, Italian club Sampdoria, and two Mexican clubs, Puebla and Tecos.
“Deep sorrow for the departure of a leader of a group that has given one of the greatest joys to the country,” Argentine President Javier Milei said on his X handle.
“You gave us a lot in your time with the Argentine national team and football. Undoubtedly, your passing into immortality will be with the best of memories for all of us who love football,” said AFA president Claudio Tapia.
