Johan Cruyff, the legendary Dutch footballer and coach, is widely regarded as one of the greatest figures in the history of the sport. His innovative tactics and philosophical approach to the game, known as “Total Football,” revolutionized how football was played and continues to inspire generations of players and coaches.
But beyond his on-field achievements, Cruyff was also a man of strong values and beliefs. This article explores Johan Cruyff’s religion and how it influenced his life and career.
Johan Cruyff’s Religious Beliefs
Contrary to some rumors, Johan Cruyff was not Jewish. However, he had a strong connection to Judaism through his wife, Danny Coster, whose family had Jewish roots. Cruyff showed respect and solidarity with the Jewish community on several occasions. He even submitted documents to Yad Vashem, the World Holocaust Remembrance Center, to honor his wife’s family members who perished in the Holocaust.
Cruyff’s personal religious beliefs leaned more towards humanism. He believed in the inherent goodness of humanity and emphasized the importance of human values. In a 2015 interview, he stated, “I’m not religious. In Spain, all 22 players make the sign of the cross before they enter the pitch. If it works, all matches must therefore end in a draw.” This statement reflects his pragmatic and humanistic approach to life.
The Impact of Humanism on Cruyff’s Philosophy
Cruyff’s humanistic values were deeply intertwined with his football philosophy. He believed in treating all players with respect and giving everyone a chance to play the sport. He famously said, “Football is a game you play with your brain.” This highlights his emphasis on intelligence, creativity, and individual expression within a team framework.
His humanistic values also extended to his coaching style. He fostered a positive and inclusive environment where players felt valued and empowered. He encouraged them to think independently and make decisions on the pitch, promoting a sense of shared responsibility and collective intelligence.
Johan Cruyff’s Connection to Israel
Cruyff’s connection to Judaism extended to his relationship with Israel. He visited the country several times and even considered coaching the Israeli national team. In 1985, he met an elderly farmer who had sheltered a Jewish family from the Nazis during the Holocaust, further solidifying his bond with the Jewish community and Israel.
His son, Jordi Cruyff, also has strong ties to Israel. He played for and later became the sports director of Maccabi Tel Aviv, one of Israel’s most successful football clubs.
Johan Cruyff’s Legacy
Johan Cruyff’s legacy extends far beyond his achievements on the football pitch. He was a visionary leader, a philosopher, and a humanist who left an indelible mark on the world. His emphasis on human values, individual expression, and collective intelligence continues to inspire people across different fields.
His connection to Judaism and his respect for the Jewish community serve as a reminder of the importance of tolerance and understanding in a world often divided by differences. Cruyff’s legacy is a testament to the power of sports to unite people and promote positive change.
Johan Cruyff’s Awards and Recognition
| Award | Year |
|---|---|
| Ballon d’Or | 1971 |
| Ballon d’Or | 1973 |
| Ballon d’Or | 1974 |
| World Soccer Player of the Year | 1971 |
| World Soccer Player of the Year | 1973 |
| World Soccer Player of the Year | 1974 |
| European Player of the Century | 1999 |
| World Soccer Greatest XI of All Time | 2013 |
Clubs Managed by Johan Cruyff
| Club | Country | From | To |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ajax | Netherlands | 1985 | 1988 |
| Barcelona | Spain | 1988 | 1996 |
| Catalonia national team | Spain | 2009 | 2013 |
Conclusion
Johan Cruyff’s influence on football is undeniable. His “Total Football” philosophy transformed the game, and his legacy continues to inspire. While not Jewish himself, his connection to Judaism through his wife’s family and his actions demonstrate a clear respect for the Jewish community.
Cruyff’s humanistic values, his belief in the importance of individual expression and collective intelligence, were integral to his coaching style and his overall approach to life. His legacy serves as a powerful reminder of the unifying power of sports and the importance of human values in a world that often needs them most.
FAQs
Johan Cruyff’s religion was not Judaism, but he had a strong connection to the Jewish community through his wife’s family.
Cruyff’s humanistic values greatly influenced his coaching style, fostering a positive and inclusive environment for his players.
Cruyff’s “Total Football” philosophy emphasized fluid movement, positional interchange, and collective intelligence on the pitch.
Johan Cruyff’s son, Jordi Cruyff, played for and later became the sports director of Maccabi Tel Aviv, an Israeli football club.
Cruyff’s legacy extends beyond football, inspiring people with his humanistic values and his belief in the power of individual expression and collective intelligence.