Last update September 11, 2024 by Alberto Llopis
Football captains of the years 70 Y 80, They were authentic references for many generations. Football of that time, was marked by the presence of authentic leaders in the field, captains who not only stood out for their talent with the ball, but also for his ability to inspire his teammates and lead his teams to glory.
In an era where football was played with passion and character, away from current marketing, These captains became symbols of their clubs and teams, leaving a historical mark. Then, We review some of the best captains who defined that golden era of football.
The best football captains of the years 70 Y 80: Natural leaders
Franz Beckenbauer (Germany and Bayern Munich)
Known as “The Kaiser”, Franz Beckenbauer it, definitely, one of the most iconic captains in football history. Born leader, Beckenbauer revolutionized the libero position with his tactical vision, ability to organize defense and ability to join the attack. He captained Bayern Munich during the 1990s. 70, leading them to win three consecutive European Cups between 1974 Y 1976, as well as multiple domestic titles.

But his leadership was not limited to the club level.. With the West Germany team, Beckenbauer won the World Cup in 1974 and the Eurocup in 1972, establishing himself as an unquestionable leader both on and off the field.
Carlos Alberto Torres (Brazil and Santos)
Carlos Alberto Torres, the captain of the Brazilian team that won the World Cup in 1970, is another perfect example of a leader in football in the years 70. His goal in the final against Italy, after a collective play that culminated with a powerful shot, It is one of the most remembered moments in football history.
As captain of Brazil, Carlos Alberto not only led one of the most talented teams of all time, but he also personified the cheerful and offensive style of play that characterized Brazil at that time..
At Santos FC, He was an undisputed leader, playing alongside Pelé and leading the team to multiple titles. His elegance in the field, combined with his leadership skills, made him a legendary captain.
Dino Zoff (Italy and Juventus)
Dino Zoff is remembered not only as one of the best goalkeepers of all time, but also as a captain who embodied the solidity and discipline that characterized Italian football in the years 70 Y 80. Zoff led Juventus to multiple titles, including six Serie A championships and one UEFA Cup in 1977.
His greatest achievement as captain came in 1982, when, at the age of 40 years, he lifted the World Cup with the Italian team, becoming the oldest captain to win the tournament. The serenity, Zoff's security and leadership were crucial for Italy in that World Cup, and his legacy as one of the best captains in history lives on.
Johan Cruyff (Netherlands and FC Barcelona)
Johan Cruyff, the man who changed football with his style and philosophy, He was also an exemplary captain. With the Netherlands, led the “Clockwork Orange” in the World Cup 1974, where his team dazzled the world with its “total football”. Although they failed to win the tournament, Cruyff was recognized as the best player of the championship and his influence on the team was undeniable.

At FC Barcelona, Cruyff was more than a player; He was the architect of a cultural change that laid the foundation for the club's future success. as captain, His football intelligence and his ability to direct the game from midfield made him a leader on and off the field of play.. He then transferred that leadership as a coach, creating the 'Dream Team' and leading Barça to win the first European Cup in its history at Wembley in 1992 against Sampdoria.
Billy Bremner (Scotland and Leeds United)
Billy Bremner, the Scottish captain of Leeds United, He was the heart and soul of one of the most dominant teams in England in the years 70. Known for his combativeness, courage and leadership, Bremner led Leeds to two First Division titles, an FA Cup and a League Cup. Under his captaincy, Leeds also reached the European Cup final in 1975.
In the Scottish team, Bremner was a passionate leader, although his international career did not achieve the same successes as at the club level.. Nonetheless, His influence on British football at the time is indisputable., and remains a legend in Leeds.
Daniel Passarella (Argentina y River Plate)
Daniel Passarella, known as “The Great Captain”, He was a key figure for Argentina and River Plate in the years 70 Y 80.
He was the captain of the Argentine team that won its first World Cup in 1978, demonstrating his leadership and strength in both defense and attack. Passarella was a defender with notable scoring ability, which made it a lethal weapon in set pieces. He was also present at Mexico 86 being the only Argentine soccer player who won 2 world.
Con River Plate, Passarella also had a successful career, winning multiple league titles and leaving an indelible mark on the club. So much so that during its history, he was a player, coach and president of the 'Millonarios'. His strong temperament and fierce playing style made him a natural leader., respected by his teammates and feared by his rivals.
José Antonio Camacho (Spain and Real Madrid)
Another iconic captain of the years 70 Y 80, It was José Antonio Camacho, who stood out as the undisputed leader of the Spanish National Team and Real Madrid. Camacho, a left back of great physical strength and combative spirit, He personified the claw and the heart in every game. He was not a virtuoso with the ball, but if a bulldog that chased his rival all over the field.
His leadership was not only manifested in his ability to motivate his colleagues., but also in his willingness to face any adversity on the field. No matter how hard it was. It was not unusual to see him end games with multiple injuries and blows..
Camacho was the type of captain who never gave up, inspiring his team to fight until the end. During his time in the Spanish team, He was a defensive pillar and participated in two World Cups (1982 Y 1986), in addition to the European Championship 1984, where Spain reached the final.

His legacy at Real Madrid is equally legendary, where he won numerous league and cup titles, being a symbol of the perseverance and character that defined an era of the club. So much so that he is one of the few Real Madrid's 'One Club Man'.