FC Utrecht legend Leo van Veen dies at 80

Leo van Veen, a legendary former striker for FC Utrecht and widely considered one of the club's greatest players, has passed away at the age of 80. His former club confirmed his death on Wednesday. Van Veen had been battling Alzheimer's disease for some time.

Van Veen spent 21 years in professional football, playing for clubs such as DOS, Ajax, and his beloved FC Utrecht. He earned the unofficial title of "Mister FC Utrecht" for his extensive career with the club, playing 391 matches. With 154 goals, he remains the club's all-time top scorer and was described as one of their most important players.

After retiring from playing, Van Veen transitioned to coaching, managing several clubs including FC Utrecht. He remained a respected figure at the Stadion Galgenwaard, where one of the halls is named in his honor. Former FC Utrecht coach Han Berger emphasized Van Veen's significance, stating, "He was a club icon. Without Leo, there would be no FC Utrecht."

Despite his long battle with Alzheimer's, Van Veen maintained contact with the club. Former teammate Ton de Kruik shared that Van Veen still attended home matches last year. FC Utrecht plans to commemorate Van Veen and is discussing the details of a tribute with his family.

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He was a club icon. Without Leo, there would be no FC Utrecht.