Cesar Menotti was the manager of Argentina when they won their first ever World Cup on home soil in 1978, winning 3-1 after extra-time in their final against the Netherlands
Tributes are being paid to former Argentina manager Cesar Menotti, who's died aged 85.
Menotti led his nation to their first ever World Cup win on home soil in 1978 and passed away on Sunday after being hospitalised for a month with severe anemia. The Rosario-born tactician guided Argentina to a 3-1 victory over the Netherlands, as extra-time goals from tournament top scorer Mario Kempes and team-mate Daniel Bertoni sealed the win.
The Argentine Football Association (AFA) confirmed his death in a statement which read: "The Argentine Football Association regrets to report with great sadness the death of Cesar Luis Menotti, current Director of National Teams and former World Champion coach of Argentina."
A striker in his playing days, Menotti played in Argentina with Rosario Central, Racing Club and Boca Juniors. He later joined the New York Generals before playing for Santos and Juventus in Brazil.
Menotti managed a total of 16 different teams after hanging up his boots, including clubs such as Barcelona and Atletico Madrid, as well as managing the Mexican national team.
An advocate for playing attractive football, 'Flaco' also took charge of Argentina's under-20 side for the 1979 World Cup in Japan, a team which included the great Diego Maradona. Menotti's youngsters won the tournament but after returning to first-team duties for the 1982 World Cup in Spain and going out in the second round, he was replaced by Carlos Bilardo.
Last month, Menotti was admitted to hospital with severe anemia and underwent surgery for phlebitis. President of the AFA, Chiqui Tapia, posted on X/Twitter : "Dear Flaco, it is an immense pain to have to say goodbye to you. You left us a lot during your time in the national team and in football.
"Without a doubt, your passage to immortality will be with the best memories of all of us who love the round. I send a warm hug on behalf of myself and all of Argentine Football to all of Cesar's family at this moment. See you always dear friend!"
Argentina's current president, Javier Milei, also said: "RIP. Deep pain for the departure of the leader of a group that has given one of the greatest joys to the country. Although I adhere to another school, it would be foolish to deny the contribution of César Luis Menotti. Goodbye Flaco."
There was also a tribute to Menotti during Sunday's League Cup final in Argentina by Velez Sarsfield and Estudiantes. A minute's silence was held at half-time, with all invovled paying their respects.
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