Menotti (footballer)

César Luis Menotti (born November 5, 1938, died May 5, 2024), known simply as Menotti, was an Argentine football manager and former player. He is best known for managing the Argentina national team to victory in the 1978 FIFA World Cup.

As a player, Menotti was a midfielder who played for Rosario Central, Racing Club, Boca Juniors, and the New York Generals.

Following his playing career, Menotti transitioned to coaching. In addition to his success with the Argentine national team, he also managed clubs such as Barcelona, Boca Juniors, River Plate, Atlético Madrid, and Sampdoria.

Menotti was known for his philosophical approach to football, advocating for attacking, possession-based play and a commitment to beautiful football. He was a highly influential figure in Argentine and world football, and his tactical ideas continue to be debated and studied. He was often contrasted with Carlos Bilardo, whose more pragmatic and results-oriented approach represented a different school of thought in Argentine football. His legacy extends beyond trophies won, impacting generations of coaches and players.