Barcelona Ex-president wanted Camp Nou named in his honour

Cruyff, the revolutionary Dutchman

Almost a year since his passing, Johan Cruyff's absence and lack of guidance has been deeply felt at Barcelona, both on the pitch and off it, and Revista Panenka have dedicated an entire issue of their magazine honouring the influential figure.

Ex-Barcelona president Joan Laporta and journalist David Torras joined together on Wednesday evening to discuss his legacy and everything he did for the club.

"Cruyff is the most important person in Barcelona history," Laporta said. "The club should have changed the name of the Camp Nou in his honour but took too long and Ajax have already done so.

"Johan was the inspiration, and his disciples perfected his work.

"Barcelona's next coach must follow his legacy."

Laporta admitted that Cruyff's guidance even influenced his coaching appointments.

"I chose Rijkaard, Txiki Begiristain [director of football] and Pep Guardiola because Johan told me to," he added. "Barcelona have been recognised, loved and admired for the best football that has ever existed because of who he was."