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Dutch FA To Rename Amsterdam Arena After Johan Cruyff

Dutch FA To Rename Amsterdam Arena After Johan Cruyff

A fitting tribute to the Dutch legend

Joe Baiamonte

Joe Baiamonte

The world of football was sent into mourning this week, with the passing of one of the game's greatest ever players, Johan Cruyff.

And the Dutch FA have announced that they plan to rename the Amsterdam Arena after the legendary forward.

The 68-year-old lost his battle with cancer yesterday and several of his fans and former teammates have since shared their own memories through social media.

Cruyff
Cruyff

But its the home of one of Cruyff's own teams that is planning the most touching tribute, as Ajax look to rename their stadium after the player who made 276 appearances for de Godenzonen.

Michael van Praag, the president of the Dutch FA said: "I can't wait for the moment when we rename our stadium the Johan Cruyff Arena. It's the best tribute we can pay him."

The Amsterdam Arena is currently home to both Ajax and the Dutch national team and was originally opened in 1996. Cruyff won eight league titles and three European Cups during his time in Amsterdam, making him unarguably the club's greatest ever player.

Cruyff
Cruyff

After moving on to Barcelona in 1973 Cruyff played for Los Angeles Aztecs, Washington Diplomats and Levante, before returning to Ajax and finally retiring at Feyernoord.

Cruyff also had a hugely successful managerial career winning four La Liga titles and the European Cup with Barca.

In another tribute, Holland are set to stop their friendly against France in the 14th minute tonight in memory of Cruyff - 14 being the Dutchman's iconic shirt number.

This story was first featured on talkingbaws.com - simple, shareable sport. Like them on Facebook and follow them on Twitter.

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Topics: Football, Ajax, Johan Cruyff