The New York Cosmos are saddened by the news that Johan Neeskens has passed away at the age of 73.

The Dutch international joined the Cosmos in 1979 and in five years made a total of 94 apperances, scoring 17 goals. He was a key member of the squads that won the North American Soccer League championship in 1980 and 1982. Neeskens epitomized the international prestige of those famed Cosmos teams.

Before joining the Cosmos, Neeskens played for AFC Ajax and FC Barcelona alongside Johan Cruyff. He was also an integral part of the famous Dutch national teams at the 1974 and 1978 World Cup, made famous for their style of Total Football.

Following his playing career, Neeskens became a coach most notably as an assistant to Frank Rijkaard with the Netherlands national team and FC Barcelona. 

The New York Cosmos extend their deepest sympathies to his family and loved ones.