Frank Christian
Ange Postecoglou is set to lead Tottenham in their UEFA Europa League match against Ferencvaros this Thursday, a game made meaningful by his ties to a legendary figure from Hungary.
Tottenham kicked off their European journey with a commanding 3-0 victory over Qarabag at home, and they maintained their momentum by defeating Manchester United with the same score in the Premier League.
This time, they are traveling to Budapest to compete against the reigning Hungarian champions, a team that Postecoglou’s previous club, Celtic, bested 3-2 during his last encounter with them in the Europa League three years back.
However, the significance of this match isn’t solely tied to past victories for Postecoglou; it also links to his relationship with Ferenc Puskas, Hungary’s most renowned football icon.
Postecoglou had the privilege of playing under Puskas at South Melbourne from 1989 to 1992, and he attributes much of his footballing journey to the influence of this extraordinary player, celebrated as one of the very best in the history of the sport.
Postecoglou on Puskas: ‘One of the greatest of all time’
In a pre-match interview, Postecoglou expressed, “I share a unique bond with Mr. Puskas. I was fortunate to have spent three years learning from one of the greatest footballers ever, and more importantly, an exceptional human being.”
#OnThisDay in 1927, Real Madrid legend Ferenc Puskás was born. Here’s a club-sanctioned supercut of some of his greatest moments, set to emotive classical music. Perfection. pic.twitter.com/8l8xAn1KH8
— MUNDIAL (@MundialMag) April 1, 2020
“He was among the kindest individuals I’ve met, and I feel privileged to have those three years with him, where I could engage with someone who had achieved everything in the football realm while being someone I deeply respect. I often reminisce about that time, and it still feels surreal to me that I had that opportunity while being in Australia.”
“As I age, those experiences become even more significant. I wish he could witness my journey now because he profoundly influenced the manager I have become, as well as the person I am today.”
“I eagerly await tomorrow’s match. It promises to be a tough challenge. European fixtures, particularly when away, are always challenging. I anticipate a vibrant atmosphere in the stadium, as the fans passionately support their team, which makes this an exciting match for me and the players.”
Who was Ferenc Puskas?
Ferenc Puskas is celebrated for his time at Real Madrid from 1958 to 1966 and for his pivotal role with the Hungarian national team.
Puskas was integral to the remarkable generation that made it to the FIFA World Cup final in 1954 and secured an Olympic gold medal in 1952. His record of 84 goals in 85 international appearances highlights him as one of the most prolific goal-scorers in history. The annual award for the best goal in football is named in his honor.
During his club career, Puskas won the European Cup three times with Real Madrid and amassed 10 league titles with both Los Blancos and Budapest Honved. His total goal count is said to be 619 in 618 league and cup matches.
In coaching, he guided Panathinaikos to the European Cup final in 1971 and had a varied coaching career including time with the Saudi Arabian national team, AEK Athens, and South Melbourne.
Puskas passed away from pneumonia in November 2006 after battling Alzheimer’s disease since 2000.
