Terry Venables, the former England manager, has passed away at the age of 80 following an extended illness.
The announcement was made through a statement released by the League Managers’ Association on behalf of Venables’ family.
It read: “We are totally devastated by the loss of a wonderful husband and father who passed away peacefully yesterday after a long illness. We would ask that privacy be given at this incredibly sad time to allow us to mourn the loss of this lovely man who we were so lucky to have had in our lives.”
Terry Venables, who also had managerial stints at Tottenham Hotspur and Barcelona, notably achieved success by winning the FA Cup with Tottenham in 1991.
As the manager of the England national team, he guided them to the semifinals of the 1996 European Championship, which they hosted.
In November 1996, Venables took charge of Australia, leading the Socceroos to an unprecedented run to the final of the 1997 Confederations Cup.
However, in late 1997, he experienced the infamous moment in Socceroos history during an intercontinental playoff against Iran.
Despite holding a 3-1 aggregate lead with 15 minutes remaining, a lone Australian fan’s interruption led to a loss of momentum, resulting in two late goals for Iran.
This heartbreaking turn of events cost Australia their first World Cup berth in 24 years.
Venables’ managerial career also included spells at English clubs Crystal Palace and Leeds United.
During his tenure as Barcelona coach, he secured La Liga, ending an 11-year title drought, and led the team to the European Cup final.
Additionally, Venables played a pivotal role in bringing British strikers Gary Lineker and Mark Hughes to Camp Nou.
“The best, most innovative coach that I had the privilege and pleasure of playing for,” Lineker, who also played under Venables at Spurs and England, wrote on X. “He was much more than just a great manager; he was vibrant, he was charming, he was witty, and he was a friend.”
England manager Gareth Southgate, who played under Venables for the Three Lions during Euro 96, added: “Any player will have great affinity with the manager that gave them their opportunity, but it was quickly evident playing for Terry Venables that he was an outstanding coach and manager.
Tactically excellent, he had a wonderful manner, capable of handling everyone from the youngest player to the biggest star.
“He was open-minded, forward-thinking, enjoyed life to the full and created a brilliant environment with England that allowed his players to flourish and have one of the most memorable tournaments in England’s history. A brilliant man who made people feel special, I’m very sad to hear of his passing and my thoughts are with Yvette and all of his family.”
Terry Venables commenced his professional playing career with Chelsea in 1960. Throughout his playing days, he represented several clubs, including Tottenham, Queens Park Rangers, and Crystal Palace, before transitioning into a managerial role at Crystal Palace upon retirement.
During his playing career, Venables amassed over 500 league appearances and secured silverware with Chelsea, winning the League Cup in 1965, and with Spurs, clinching the FA Cup in 1967. His international playing career saw him make two appearances for England.
Beyond his playing and managerial roles, Venables took on the position of chief executive at Spurs for a two-year period from 1991 to ’93.
“We are extremely saddened to learn of the passing of Terry Venables, our former player, manager and chief executive, who passed away on Saturday,” Spurs said in a statement.