Ajax and Barcelona hold emotional tribute to Johan Cruyff in Amsterdam
Ajax and FC Barcelona will pay tribute to Johan Cruyff with a special match on Sunday 15 November at the Johan Cruyff Arena in Amsterdam. The news, accompanied by a Getty Images photo signed by Laura Aparicio, underscores the intention to celebrate the legendary Dutchman. The event will bring together former players from both clubs to recall his influence on football.
Reason and historic date
The initiative aims to remember the figure of the legendary player and coach, who passed away on 24 March 2016, and keep alive the legacy he left at both organisations. The chosen date coincides with 15 November 1964, the day Cruyff made his debut with Ajax’s first team, marking a milestone in his career. To reinforce his memory, the organisers have highlighted the coincidence as a symbol of continuity.
The proceeds from the celebration will be donated to the Johan Cruyff Foundation, which supports and develops sports projects for children in need. The fundraising will enable financing activities in several countries, following Cruyff’s own philanthropic vision.
Participants and legacy
The match will feature the participation of numerous footballers who have been part of Ajax’s and Barcelona’s history. Among the first confirmed names are Patrick Kluivert, Frank de Boer, Ronald de Boer, Philip Cocu, Roger García, Bojan Krkic and Richar Witschge. Albert Ferrer will coach the Barça Legends, while Wesley Sneijder, Edwin van der Sar, Siem de Jong and Jan Vertonghen have also confirmed their presence.
The organisation has announced that it will reveal new participants over the coming weeks, so the guest list is expected to keep growing before the event takes place. Since the 1970s, when Cruyff became the first Ajax player to sign for the Catalan club, a total of 27 footballers have worn both shirts.
The Amsterdam stadium bears his name, and in Barcelona the Johan Cruyff Stadium hosts La Masia, where future stars are born. Laura, quoted in the note, said: “La Masia is incredible, the results have spoken” in the context of the tenth anniversary of his passing, highlighting the relevance of his ideas in the development of young talent.