When it comes to football legends, Johan Cruyff is one name that will always be remembered. His impact on the game, both as a player and a manager, is undeniable.
Cruyff’s time at Barcelona is particularly noteworthy, as he played a crucial role in transforming the club into the powerhouse it is today. One question that often arises when discussing Cruyff’s Barcelona career is: What number did he wear?
The Early Years
Before we delve into his Barcelona days, let’s start from the beginning. Johan Cruyff began his professional career at Ajax, where he wore the number 9 jersey. This number became synonymous with his name as he led Ajax to numerous domestic and European successes.
The Move to Barcelona
In 1973, Cruyff made a highly-anticipated move to Barcelona. The Dutch maestro brought with him his unique style of play and immense talent, capturing the hearts of fans around the world.
Upon joining Barcelona, Cruyff was initially assigned the number 9 jersey – the same number he wore at Ajax. However, due to an administrative error, another player had already been assigned that number. As a result, Cruyff opted for another iconic number – 14.
The Significance of Number 14
Cruyff’s decision to wear the number 14 jersey was not arbitrary. In fact, it held great significance for him personally. The number represented his birthday – April 14th.
Moreover, wearing this number allowed Cruyff to pay homage to Rinus Michels – his former coach at Ajax and later at Barcelona. Michels had worn the same number during his illustrious playing career.
The Legacy Continues
Throughout his time at Barcelona, Cruyff’s impact was immense. He led the team to four consecutive La Liga titles from 1990 to 1994 and helped them secure their first-ever UEFA Champions League title in 1992.
Cruyff’s influence extended beyond his playing career as well. After retiring as a player, he returned to Barcelona as a manager and implemented a revolutionary style of play known as “total football.” Under his guidance, Barcelona won even more trophies and established themselves as one of the most formidable teams in the world.
Cruyff’s Legacy Lives On
Although Johan Cruyff is no longer with us, his impact on Barcelona and the game of football continues to be felt. His number 14 jersey has become iconic, with subsequent Barcelona players such as Thierry Henry and Javier Mascherano choosing to wear it in honor of Cruyff’s legacy.
In conclusion, Johan Cruyff wore the number 14 jersey during his time at Barcelona. This number not only represented his birthday but also paid tribute to Rinus Michels – his former coach and mentor. Cruyff’s contributions to Barcelona will forever be remembered, making him one of the greatest players in the club’s history.