The Amsterdam Arena is to be renamed after the Netherlands’ most famous footballer Johan Cruyff, who died just over a year ago and would have turned 70 this week. “By naming the stadium after him we believe we have made a worthy tribute,” said a statement on the stadium's website (www.amsterdamarena.nl). “He was an Amsterdamer who was known all over the world for his contribution to football as a player, a coach and philanthropist through his foundation. The city is proud of the legacy Johan left for Amsterdam.”

His son Jordi said the family were thrilled by the recognition, which will be ratified in the next six months. The city have also agreed to name a street, square or bridge after him too in the coming months. The Amsterdam Area was built in 1996 and has a seated capacity of just over 54 000. It is jointly owned by Ajax Amsterdam, the city and its stadium management company.