Cruyff Footprint

Johan Cruyff’s impact extends far beyond the pitch. His influence is embedded in stadiums, statues, and streets that bear his name, in the awards that celebrate his legacy, and in museums that tell his story. His philosophy and style of play continue to inspire through books, documentaries, and even digital platforms like video games and NFTs.

From the legendary Cruyff Turn to his most memorable quotes, this section explores the many ways Johan Cruyff’s footprint remains visible across the world—both in football and beyond.

Places & Tribute

  • Stadiums
  • Statues & Streets
  • Awards
  • Museums

  • Books
  • Documentary
  • Video Games
  • NFTs
  • Musical

Explore more about

Stadiums

Estadi Johan Cruyff

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Inaugurated on August 27, 2019, it serves as the home ground for FC Barcelona’s reserve team, Barcelona B, the Barcelona Femení (women’s team), and the Juvenil A (U19) team.

The stadium was constructed as part of the Espai Barça project, replacing the old Mini Estadi. It has a seating capacity of 6,000 spectators and meets UEFA Category 3 standards, allowing it to host various official matches. Designed by the architectural firm Batlle i Roig Arquitectes, the Estadi Johan Cruyff is situated within the Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper, FC Barcelona’s training facility and youth academy. The stadium honors the legacy of Johan Cruyff, who significantly influenced FC Barcelona’s philosophy and style of play.

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Johan Cruyff ArenA

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Formerly known as the Amsterdam ArenA, the stadium was officially renamed the Johan Cruyff ArenA at the start of the 2018/2019 football season to honor one of the greatest footballers of all time.

Located in Amsterdam, Netherlands, it is the home of AFC Ajax and serves as a premier venue for international matches, concerts, and major events.

For more details, visit the official Johan Cruyff ArenA website.

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Statues & Streets

Johan Cruyff’s legacy is immortalized not only in football history but also in the cities and landmarks that bear his name.

From statues that capture his iconic presence on the pitch to streets named in his honor across the world, and murals that bring his philosophy to life through art, these tributes reflect the lasting impact he left on the sport and beyond. Each monument, street, and artwork tells a story—of his vision, his philosophy, and his influence on generations of players and fans alike.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Johan Cruyff Statue

A bronze statue stands near the main entrance of the Johan Cruyff ArenA, honoring his impact on Dutch football.

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De Meer Mural

In the district where the former Ajax stadium was located, a large mural pays homage to Cruyff’s legacy.

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Tribute Tram

In April 2016, Amsterdam introduced a special tram on Line 14 to honor Johan Cruyff on what would have been his 69th birthday. Adorned with images of the football legend, the tram symbolized his deep connection to the city. This moving tribute, launched by GVB Amsterdam, was a temporary initiative and is no longer in service, but it remains a memorable homage to Cruyff’s enduring legacy.

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Barcelona, Spain

Camp Nou Statue

FC Barcelona unveiled a bronze statue of Cruyff at Camp Nou, capturing his iconic pose and commemorating his contributions to the club.

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Ciutat Esportiva Mural

A vibrant mural at FC Barcelona’s training facility celebrates Cruyff’s philosophy and lasting influence on the team’s playing style.

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Street

Yes, in Sitges, Spain, Johan Cruyff’s legacy is honored in several meaningful ways:

Aiguadolç Municipal Stadium

Within this stadium, there’s a dedicated area known as the Passeig Johan Cruyff (Johan Cruyff Passage) on the Avenue of the Football Stars. This passage features a commemorative plaque unveiled by his son, Jordi Cruyff, during the first Johan Cruyff Memorial event.

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Annual Memorial Match

The Sitges Veterans Association organizes an annual match to pay tribute to Johan Cruyff. This event gathers former FC Barcelona players, members of the Cruyff family, and local football enthusiasts to celebrate his enduring impact on the sport.

Carrer Johan Cruyff in Vallfogona de Riucorb, Spain

In September 2016, this small village in Tarragona became the first in Spain to name a street after Cruyff.

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Awards

The legacy of Johan Cruyff extends beyond the pitch, inspiring excellence in football and sports leadership around the world. In line with his vision and values, several prestigious awards have been established to honor outstanding talent, leadership, and dedication to the sport. Below are some of the most significant awards associated with Johan Cruyff:

Johan Cruyff Coach of the Year Trophies (Ballon d’Or)

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The Johan Cruyff Coach of the Year Trophies are awarded in conjunction with the Ballon d’Or to recognize the best coaches in the world of football. These trophies honor the leadership, tactical brilliance, and sportsmanship demonstrated by coaches who have made a significant impact on their teams and the sport as a whole. Inspired by Johan Cruyff’s innovative approach to coaching, this award celebrates the strategic vision and leadership that define the best in football management.

Through these awards, Johan Cruyff’s legacy continues to inspire new generations of players, coaches, and fans, promoting the values of creativity, leadership, and a passion for the beautiful game.

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Johan Cruyff Shield (Netherlands)

The Johan Cruyff Shield (“Johan Cruijff Schaal”) is an annual football match held in the Netherlands that serves as the curtain-raiser for the Dutch football season. This competition pits the winners of the Eredivisie (Dutch league champions) against the KNVB Cup holders. The event honors the spirit of competition and pays tribute to Johan Cruyff’s lasting impact on Dutch football. The Shield symbolizes excellence, sportsmanship, and the spirit of fair play that Cruyff exemplified throughout his career.

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Johan Cruyff Talent of the Year Awards (Eredivisie, Netherlands)

The Johan Cruyff Talent of the Year Awards celebrate the most promising young talents in the Eredivisie, the highest tier of Dutch football. This award recognizes players who have demonstrated exceptional skill, dedication, and the potential to become future stars of the sport. It reflects Johan Cruyff’s lifelong commitment to nurturing young talent and his belief in the importance of giving opportunities to emerging players.

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Award table
Year Winner Club
2023/2024Johan BakayokoPSV
2023/2024Lily YohannesAjax
2022/2023Xavi SimonsPSV
2022/2023Esmee BrugtsPSV
2021/2022Jurrïen TimberAjax
2020/2021Ryan GravenberchAjax
2019/2020Geen winnaar ivm Covid-19
2018/2019Frenkie de JongAjax
2017/2018Matthijs de LigtAjax
2016/2017Kasper DolbergAjax
2015/2016Vincent JansenAZ
2014/2015Memphis DepayPSV
2013/2014Davy KlaassenAjax
2012/2013Marco van GinkelVitesse
2011/2012Adam MaherAZ
2010/2011Christian EriksenAjax
2009/2010Gregory van der WielAjax
2008/2009Eljero EliaFC Twente
2007/2008Miralem SulejmaniAjax
2006/2007Ibrahim AfellayPSV
2005/2006Klaas-Jan HuntelaarAjax
2004/2005Salomon KalouFeyenoord
2003/2004Wesley SneijderAjax
2002/2003Arjen RobbenPSV
Museums

Johan Cruyff’s influence on football and his legacy can be experienced in various museums that celebrate his life and achievements.

Johan Cruyff in FCB Museum

The FCB Museum at Camp Nou in Barcelona dedicates a special section to Johan Cruyff, showcasing his extraordinary contributions to FC Barcelona both as a player and a coach. Visitors can explore memorabilia, trophies, photographs, and videos that highlight Cruyff’s role in transforming the club’s philosophy and playing style. This tribute serves as a reminder of his lasting impact on one of the most successful football clubs in the world.

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Johan Cruyff in Madame Tussauds Amsterdam

At Madame Tussauds Amsterdam, visitors can see a lifelike wax figure of Johan Cruyff, paying homage to his status as a Dutch football legend. The exhibit celebrates Cruyff’s achievements, his iconic presence in the sport, and his influence on generations of players and fans. This interactive experience allows visitors to connect with the legacy of one of the greatest footballers in history.

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Cruyff in the Spotlight

Books

Books

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My Turn: The Autobiography

In this candid memoir, Cruyff reflects on his illustrious career, sharing personal anecdotes and insights into his football philosophy. Published posthumously in 2016, it offers a deep dive into his life on and off the pitch.

Cruyff in the Spotlight

First Documentary About Johan Cruyff

Drive to Survive producer Box to Box Films is developing a premium documentary series on Dutch football legend Johan Cruyff. Marking the first-ever collaboration with the Cruyff family, the series will delve into the complex and charismatic life of a man hailed as one of modern football’s most influential figures and one of the sport’s all-time greats.

The series features in-depth interviews with those closest to Cruyff, who passed away in 2016, alongside firsthand accounts from football legends who worked with and were profoundly influenced by him. In addition, never-before-seen archival footage will offer exclusive insights into Cruyff’s life both on and off the pitch.

The documentary is co-produced with Dutch sports indie Lusus—the creative force behind Disney+’s That One Word – Feyenoord and Amazon Prime Video’s Binnen Bij Orange. Production is set to commence later this year, with a global release planned for the second half of 2025. Box to Box Films and Lusus are currently in talks with several interested broadcasters.

The project is executive produced by James Gay-Rees and Paul Martin for Box to Box Films, alongside Jaap Schneider for Lusus.

Production is set to commence later this year, with a global release planned for the second half of 2025. Box to Box Films and Lusus are currently in talks with several interested broadcasters. I would rather say that the documentary is under production and the global release is planned for the first hafl of 2026.

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Video Games

Johan Cruyff has been immortalized in various football video games, allowing fans to experience his iconic playing style virtually.

EA Sports’ FIFA Series: Cruyff was introduced as an “Icon” player in FIFA 19’s Ultimate Team mode, featuring a 94 rating. His presence continues in subsequent editions, including EA FC24, where he appears alongside other football legends.

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Konami’s Pro Evolution Soccer (PES) Series: In PES 2018, Cruyff was added as a playable legend, allowing gamers to utilize his skills and signature moves.

NFTs

In July 2022, FC Barcelona unveiled its inaugural NFT titled “In a Way, Immortal,” commemorating Johan Cruyff’s iconic goal against Atlético Madrid on December 22, 1973. This digital artwork, produced in collaboration with BCN Visuals, portrays Cruyff’s remarkable airborne strike in a molten gold animation. The NFT was auctioned at Sotheby’s in New York, fetching $693,000. The purchaser not only acquired the unique digital piece but also gained the title of ‘Barça Digital Ambassador,’ granting exclusive club-related benefits.

For those interested in exploring this NFT further, FC Barcelona has dedicated a section on their official website detailing the project and its significance.

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Cruyff Musical

The Cruyff Musical, titled “14 de musical,” celebrates the life and legacy of Johan Cruyff through music and performance. This theatrical production tells the story of Cruyff’s journey, from his early days as a player to becoming an iconic figure in the world of football. The musical captures the essence of his philosophy, leadership, and passion for the game, inspiring audiences with a blend of storytelling, music, and choreography.

The Cruyff Musical premiered on September 25, 2021 at the AFAS Theater in Leusden, Netherlands, and ran for nearly three years before concluding on July 6, 2024. The production showcased the impact Cruyff had both on and off the pitch, highlighting his innovative spirit and lasting influence on the world of football.

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Johan Cruyff Quotes

Johan Cruyff’s words continue to inspire footballers, coaches, and fans worldwide. His quotes, known for their brilliance and simplicity, reflect his deep understanding of the game and life.

For a more extensive collection of Johan Cruyff’s quotes, you can explore wikiquote.

Every 14th of the month, we share one of his most iconic quotes on social media, keeping his legacy alive.

For guidelines on the authorized use of Johan’s image, trademarks, and quotes, please refer to our exploitation policy.

Cruyff Turn

The Cruyff Turn is one of the most iconic moves in football history, introduced by Johan Cruyff during the 1974 FIFA World Cup.

In a match against Sweden, Cruyff, under pressure from defender Jan Olsson, faked a pass, swiftly dragged the ball behind his standing leg, and spun away, leaving his opponent stunned.

This innovative move became a signature of Cruyff’s creativity and technical brilliance, influencing generations of footballers. The Cruyff Turn is now a fundamental skill taught worldwide, symbolizing the intelligence and elegance that defined his playing style.