Total Football: Johan Cruyff

Known as one of the greatest footballers of all time, Dutch icon Johan Cruyff brought philosophy and politics onto the field. In his career at traditionally left-wing Dutch club Ajax, and as part of the legendary Dutch national team in the 1970s, Cruyff was instrumental in developing the style of play known as “Total Football,” emphasizing teamwork, precision, and beauty on the field.

Cruyff has been outspoken about his left-wing politics throughout his career – most notably by refusing to play in the 1978 World Cup in Argentina as a protest against that country’s dictatorship. His genius and dedication to his ideals also engendered the type of play that could inspire people on and off the pitch. As he demonstrated solidarity with the Catalan independence movement and helped FC Barcelona to an epic 5-0 win against Real Madrid in 1974, a New York Times reporter remarked that Cruyff “had done more for the spirit of the Catalan people in 90 minutes than many politicians in years of struggle.”

For more about Cruyff and Dutch football, check out The People’s Game 2010 interview with David Winner, author of “Brilliant Orange: The Neurotic Genius of Dutch Football.”