Lorraine Williamson
Leo Beenhakker was appointed Real Madrid manager in 1986. Over the next three years, he guided the team to three consecutive La Liga titles and left his legacy.
He oversaw a golden era, with Hugo Sánchez and the iconic Quinta del Buitre—Emilio Butragueño, Michel, Martín Vázquez, Sanchís, and Pardeza—at the heart of the squad. His brand of attacking football drew praise from across Spain and earned admiration well beyond the country’s borders.
Innovative coach who changed the game
Beenhakker introduced training ideas that were ahead of their time in Spain. Methods like rondos, voluntary sessions, and playful tactical exercises became a core part of his regime. These techniques, now standard in Spanish academies, were credited with helping elevate football standards. Spanish newspapers, including El País and ABC described his approach as having taken the domestic game “to a higher level.”
Respected by the UK football audience
Although Beenhakker never managed in the UK, he earned respect from British football fans—especially during the 2006 World Cup. As head coach of Trinidad and Tobago, he led the underdogs to a surprise 0–0 draw against Sweden. That match, part of England’s group, drew praise from UK media for the discipline and tactical structure he brought to the team.
His work at major international tournaments, along with his ties to players who featured in the Premier League, gave him exposure in the British football world. Commentators and coaches in the UK often pointed to his Dutch footballing roots and innovative style as part of the broader “Total Football” influence admired across Europe.
Leadership with humour and humanity
Beenhakker’s success wasn’t just tactical. He was widely admired for his warmth, cultural awareness, and ability to build trust within a squad. Players responded to his humour and directness, and he earned a reputation as a coach who understood people as much as the game. His leadership style helped him fit seamlessly into the Spanish football scene.
In many ways, Beenhakker and Johan Cruyff—his compatriot and contemporary at FC Barcelona—represented a new wave of football thinking. Their ideas reshaped how Spain trained, developed players, and approached the sport tactically.
Tributes from clubs and players
Real Madrid described him as a “legendary coach” in an official statement: “Real Madrid C.F., its president and board of directors deeply mourn the passing of Leo Beenhakker… and extend condolences to his family, his clubs, and all his loved ones.”
Polish striker Robert Lewandowski, who played under Beenhakker at international level, also paid tribute. “He had a huge influence on my development. I will never forget him,” he said.
Spain bids farewell to ‘Don Leo’
Beenhakker returned briefly to Real Madrid in 1992. However, his earlier achievements had already sealed his place in the club’s history. He is remembered not only for winning trophies, but for modernising Spanish football and earning the affection of fans. In Spain—and among international observers—Don Leo remains a figure of enduring respect. The legacy of Leo Beenhakker will live on in Real Madrid and beyond.
Also read: Johan Cruyff: How one Dutchman redefined football and Catalan identity in Spain