Football Legend Johan Cruyff Dies From Cancer Aged 68

Dutch legend Johan Cruyff has died at the aged of 68 following a lengthy battle with cancer, his management have confirmed. Cruyff, a hugely recognisable figure in European football, made his name as a player at Ajax and Barcelona before going on to manage both clubs.

He had been suffering with lung cancer for over a year and told journalists last month he was ‘2-0 up’ in the battle against the disease.


But his management company confirmed today he died at home in Barcelona while surrounded by his family.

Full statement from Johan Cruyff's management "On March 24 2016 Johan Cruyff (68) died peacefully in Barcelona, surrounded by his family after a hard-fought battle with cancer.

It’s with great sadness that we ask you to respect the family’s privacy during their time of grief."

A genius attacking midfielder, he scored 290 goals in 514 games and won the Ballon d’Or three times in a glittering career.

He was also famed for the ‘Cruyff turn’ skill that is still used today by the greatest players around.

As a manager he won five ‘Manager of the Year’ awards and was credited with developing Barcelona’s infamous La Masia academy.