Now here’s a photograph that’s both nostalgic and rich in football trivia. It features Johan Cruyff – probably the most feted number 14 in footballing history – ahead of a first round group match versus Sweden at the 1974 World Cup. Bizarre though it may sound, Cruyff should in fact have worn the number one jersey at that tournament, the Dutch national football association having dished out squad numbers to its players in alphabetical order. However, Cruyff, the captain and maestro, was instead granted his lucky number. Eagle-eyed observers might also notice that Cruyff’s Adidas top and shorts featured only two stripes rather than the brand’s trademark three. The 27-year-old, seeking to avoid conflict with his own sponsor, Puma, requested a bespoke kit and the Dutch FA again bowed to his wishes. Cruyff’s talent was worth every concession. In the match pictured, he executed one of the most delicious pirouettes seen on a football pitch – the eponymous turn by which he will always be remembered – and ultimately dragged his side to their first, albeit ill-fated, World Cup final.
Specifications
- Presented on museum-grade C-Type matt photographic paper stock
- Guaranteed archival quality for 100+ years
- 30x40cm print size, dimensions include border for easy framing
- Delivered to your door, supplied unframed
- Printed in the UK by theprintspace
- Global shipping available
