George Knobel, Dutch footballer, coach, and manager (b. 1922)

George Knobel, a name deeply embedded in the annals of Dutch football, was a distinguished manager whose career left a notable imprint on both national and club levels. Born on December 10, 1922, and passing away on May 5, 2012, his entire life was intrinsically linked to his hometown of Roosendaal, Netherlands, where he was both born and died. His journey from a provincial background to the prestigious position of leading the revered *Oranje* and coaching iconic clubs like AFC Ajax is a testament to his dedication, tactical understanding, and enduring passion for the sport.

Guiding the *Oranje* – A Stint with the National Team

Knobel’s most prominent role came when he was appointed coach of the Netherlands national football team. Taking the helm in 1974, a pivotal time immediately following the captivating "Total Football" era that saw the Dutch reach the World Cup final under Rinus Michels, he faced the considerable challenge of maintaining that elevated standard. Over a two-year period, from 1974 to 1976, he guided the *Oranje* through 15 international matches, achieving a commendable record of 9 wins, 1 draw, and 5 losses. His tenure culminated in a significant achievement at the 1976 UEFA European Championship, where the Netherlands secured a respectable third-place finish. This performance underscored their continued presence among Europe's elite footballing nations, building upon the foundations laid by their predecessors.

A Distinguished Career in Club Management

Beyond his responsibilities with the national squad, George Knobel also lent his managerial expertise to several prominent club teams. In his native Netherlands, he notably coached AFC Ajax, one of Europe's most decorated clubs, renowned for its rich history of innovative football and developing world-class talent. He also managed MVV Maastricht, with his time there including a brief, temporary assignment during the spring of 1982, specifically spanning from March to April. Demonstrating the global reach of his coaching career and his willingness to embrace new challenges, Knobel even ventured further afield for a brief stint managing Seiko SA in Hong Kong, adding an international dimension to his diverse professional experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About George Knobel

When was George Knobel born and when did he pass away?

George Knobel was born on December 10, 1922, and he passed away on May 5, 2012.

What was George Knobel's main contribution to Dutch football?

His main contribution was coaching the Netherlands national football team from 1974 to 1976, during which he guided them to a third-place finish at the 1976 European Championship.

How many matches did George Knobel manage for the Netherlands national team?

He managed the Netherlands national team for a total of 15 matches.

What was the Netherlands' achievement under Knobel at the 1976 European Championship?

Under his management, the Netherlands national team secured a third-place finish at the UEFA European Championship in 1976.

Which notable clubs did George Knobel manage?

In the Netherlands, he notably coached AFC Ajax and MVV. He also had an international spell with Seiko SA in Hong Kong.

Did George Knobel coach outside of the Netherlands?

Yes, he had a brief stint managing Seiko SA in Hong Kong, showcasing an international facet of his coaching career.