Lionel Messi has led the tributes following the passing of legendary Argentina supervisor Cesar Luis Menotti on the age of 85.
Menotti coached Argentina for eight years between 1974 and 1982, main the Albiceleste to their first-ever World Cup triumph in 1978.
El Flaco famously overlooked a younger Diego Maradona from that squad, however gained the event anyway. Later, he was in cost as Argentina gained the Below-20 World Cup in 1979, with Maradona taking part in a starring function.
Cesar Luis Menotti was Argentina’s coach of their 1978 World Cup win. Right here, captain Daniel Passarella lifts the trophy after victory over the Netherlands. (Picture credit score: Getty Photographs)
Menotti left his put up after a disappointing marketing campaign on the 1982 World Cup, however went on to educate Barcelona, Boca Juniors, Atletico Madrid, Mexico and plenty of extra in a protracted profession.
Recognized to be considered one of soccer’s romantics, Menotti additionally had three spells at Independiente and labored as a director for Argentina between 2019 and 2023.
He additionally had a fierce and long-standing rivalry along with his successor, 1986 World Cup winner Carlos Bilardo.
Menotti handed away on Sunday on the age of 85, following a month in hospital with extreme anaemia.
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“The Argentine Soccer Affiliation regrets to announce with nice unhappiness the demise of Cesar Luis Menotti, present director of the nationwide groups and former World Cup profitable coach of Argentina. Farewell, Flaco querido,” AFA mentioned on social media.
And on his Instagram account, Messi wrote: “One of many nice references of our soccer has left us. Condolences to his household and family members. RIP.”
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