Former Dutch footballer Johan Neeskens has passed away at the age of 73, as confirmed on Monday by the Royal Dutch Football Association (KNVB), which did not specify the circumstances surrounding the coach’s death. Neeskens had been in Algeria participating in a youth coach training program in his final days.

The KNVB expressed their "deep sorrow" over the "unexpected passing" of Neeskens, calling him "one of the greatest" Dutch footballers.

"We will miss him dearly," the association added, offering their "strength and support" to Neeskens' family in coping with this great loss.

Neeskens passed away on Sunday in Algeria, where he was involved with the KNVB's WorldCoaches project, a program that trains young people around the world to become football coaches in their communities.

"There are no words to describe this enormous and sudden loss. The world has lost not only a talented athlete but also a committed, passionate, and wonderful person," the KNVB emphasized.

Neeskens earned 49 international caps for the Dutch national team and is remembered for his significant contributions, including in the 1974 World Cup final against West Germany, where he opened the scoring with a penalty in the second minute, though the Netherlands ultimately lost 2-1.

He also played in the 1978 World Cup final against Argentina, which ended with the same result for the Dutch.

At the club level, Neeskens shone for Ajax Amsterdam (1968-1973) and became a fan favorite at FC Barcelona (1974-1979), arriving under the guidance of coach Johan Cruyff. He was part of a golden era at the club and was affectionately known as "Johan the Second," as remembered by public broadcaster NOS.

After his time in Europe, Neeskens had a stint in the United States before finishing his playing career in Switzerland, where he continued to live while being involved in international projects.

As a coach, Neeskens served as an assistant with the Dutch national team, working alongside stars like Guus Hiddink and Frank Rijkaard. In 2000, he took the leap to become the head coach of NEC Nijmegen, a local Dutch club.