César Luis Menotti, Architect of Argentina’s World Cup Triumph, Passes Away at 85

Menotti, celebrated for his innovative coaching and intellectual approach to football, left a lasting legacy in the sport.

Menotti, who famously excluded Maradona from the 1978 squad, led Argentina to its first World Cup victory.
Known for his distinctive long hair and smoking habit, Menotti was a pivotal figure in modernizing Argentine football.
Beyond the pitch, Menotti was a political activist and a significant cultural figure, with ties to prominent Latin American writers.
After his tenure with the national team, he coached several top clubs, including Barcelona and Atlético Madrid.
Menotti’s influence extended beyond tactics, inspiring figures like Pep Guardiola and shaping the philosophy of football.