Daijiworld Media Network- Rotterdam
Rotterdam, Apr 11: Leo Beenhakker, the celebrated Dutch football manager whose career spanned over five decades and featured remarkable success with both club and national teams, passed away on Thursday afternoon at the age of 82, his family confirmed to the Dutch national broadcaster NOS.
Born in Rotterdam, Beenhakker began his managerial journey in 1968 with SC Veendam before moving on to clubs like SC Cambuur and Go Ahead Eagles. His rise to prominence came with Ajax Amsterdam, where he served as head coach from 1979 to 1981 and again in 1989. Under his leadership, Ajax clinched the Eredivisie title in both stints — in 1979–80 and 1989–90.
“The Dutch football world bids farewell to an icon. A warm football animal, whose humour and eloquence enriched the football vocabulary... The KNVB wishes his family and loved ones much strength during this time,” said the Royal Dutch Football Association (KNVB) in a heartfelt tribute.
Beenhakker achieved legendary status at Real Madrid, where he managed the Spanish giants from 1986 to 1989 and briefly in 1992. During this period, Real Madrid dominated domestic football, winning three consecutive La Liga titles, a Copa del Rey in 1989, and two Spanish Super Cups in 1988 and 1989.
In a statement, Real Madrid said, “Real Madrid C. F., its president and board of directors, are deeply saddened by the death of Leo Beenhakker… We extend our condolences and affection to his family, clubs, and loved ones.”
In 1997, Beenhakker took charge at Feyenoord Rotterdam, leading them to an Eredivisie title in 1998–99 and a Johan Cruyff Shield win in 1999.
Internationally, Beenhakker managed the Netherlands at the 1990 FIFA World Cup, and later coached the national teams of Saudi Arabia, Poland, and Trinidad and Tobago. He was instrumental in taking Trinidad and Tobago to their first-ever World Cup appearance in 2006 and guiding Poland to their maiden qualification for the European Championship in 2008.
Known not just for his tactical brilliance but also for his charismatic personality, Beenhakker’s legacy is etched in football history across continents.