

Ruud Gullit: Cruyff, Chelsea, Newcastle & Winning The Ballon d'Or | Stick to Football 81
6 snips May 1, 2025
Ruud Gullit, a Ballon d'Or winner and coaching pioneer, shares his unique football journey. He reflects on his time as the first Dutch manager in the Premier League, discussing the challenges of transitioning from player to coach. Gullit opens up about his legendary collaboration with Johan Cruyff and teammates like Marco van Basten. He also dives into the evolution of sports nutrition, emphasizing the shift towards protein-rich diets and the balance of fame and humility in his life. Expect insightful anecdotes and a genuine look at his enduring impact on the game.
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Fans Crave Club Football DNA
- Gullit noted that Chelsea's evolution to attacking football started with Glenn Hoddle and continued after him.
- Fans want recognizable styles and winning with familiar football DNA to stay engaged and satisfied.
Berlusconi's Milan Team Discipline
- Under Berlusconi, Milan was intensely focused with strong team discipline and media silence to avoid controversy.
- This united approach helped Milan win despite hostility from rival clubs and fans.
Cruyff: Coach on the Pitch
- Johan Cruyff's quickness, intelligence, and constant tactical communication made him almost a coach on the pitch.
- His unique football mind placed him far ahead of his era in quality and vision.