Amsterdam Arena set to be renamed in honor of Dutch legend Cruyff
The Amsterdam Arena could be renamed in honor of Johan Cruyff.
Cruyff passed away on Thursday following a drawn-out battle with lung cancer and tributes poured in for the 68-year-old from around the globe.
Amsterdam's Deputy Mayor Eric van der Burg confirmed that the idea of naming the Amsterdam Arena, home of Ajax - where Cruyff won eight league titles and three European Cups - was being discussed. The stadium also hosts most of the Netherlands national team's home matches
"The city wants it, so now we have to discuss it with the family of Johan Cruyff," he told Sky Sports News HQ. "I will do that in a couple of days.
"Today [Friday] is the cremation of Johan Cruyff so we are not in touch with them. But it is our wish to rename the stadium. He is the most famous Dutch football player and maybe the best player ever so it would be a beautiful tribute."
The idea has been backed by Dutch Football Association (KNVB) president Michael van Praag.
"I can't wait for the moment when we rename our stadium the Johan Cruyff Arena," he said. "It's the best tribute we can pay him."
Flags were flying at half-mast at the Arena on Friday morning and with commemorative issues of newspapers sold out around the city.
