Leo Beenhakker has died at the age of 82

Amsterdam, Netherlands – Leo Beenhakker, the renowned Dutch football coach who once led Real Madrid and several top national teams, has died at the age of 82. His family confirmed his passing, marking the end of an era for one of football’s most storied managerial figures.

Beenhakker’s career spanned decades and included stints at the helm of Dutch giants Ajax Amsterdam and Feyenoord Rotterdam, where he achieved domestic success and cemented his legacy in the Eredivisie. Internationally, he made headlines by managing Real Madrid in two separate spells, from 1986 to 1989 and again from late 1991 to mid-1992.

“Real Madrid would like to express its deepest condolences and sympathies to his family, his clubs, and all who knew him,” the Spanish club said in a statement mourning their former coach.

Across the football world, tributes poured in. Dutch national team manager Ronald Koeman called Beenhakker’s passing “a great loss for Dutch football,” praising him as “a coach with unmatched passion and vision.”

Polish striker Robert Lewandowski, who played under Beenhakker during his time managing Poland’s national team from 2006 to 2009, also paid his respects. “Rest in peace, coach,” Lewandowski wrote on social media. “Thank you for giving me the chance to fulfill my dream with the national team.”

While Beenhakker’s club career was filled with accolades, his time on the international stage proved more challenging. He led the Netherlands at the 1990 World Cup in Italy and later took charge of underdog Trinidad and Tobago at the 2006 World Cup in Germany. Despite the fanfare, he failed to secure a win in any of his seven World Cup matches.

Still, Beenhakker leaves behind a rich legacy—one shaped by bold leadership, deep football knowledge, and an enduring influence on players and clubs across the globe.