Amsterdam Arena is to be renamed after late Dutch great Johan Cruyff, according to a statement on the stadium’s official website.

Cruyff would have been 70 yesterday. Known for his ‘total football’ philosophy as a coach.   His son Jordi said the family were thrilled by the recognition, which will be ratified in the next six months. The city has also agreed to name a street, square or bridge after him in the coming months.

“By naming the stadium after him we believe we have made a worthy tribute,” said the statement.

“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.”

The 54,000-seater Amsterdam Area was built in 1996 and is jointly owned by Ajax, the city and its stadium management company