Getafe coach visiting Barcelona at Johan Cruyff stadium describes himself as ‘Cruyffista’ | OneFootball

As Barcelona take on Getafe at Johan Cruyff Stadium later this evening, all eyes will be on coach Jose Bordalas.

The Spanish tactician is widely regarded as one of Spain’s most pragmatic coaches and has played a key role in helping Getafe secure three wins in four matches this season.

But interestingly, Bordalas credit much of his coaching style to none other than Johan Cruyff.

Bordalas’ adoration for Johan Cruyff

As reported by Diario SPORT, Bordalas once said: “Johan Cruyff is the figure who has influenced me the most. I have always been a ‘Cruyffista’.

“He has been a reference, as a player and as a coach, a person who changed the idea of the game. What happens is that you can’t always interpret football as you would like because you have to adapt to what you have.”

The Getafe boss also recalled meeting the Dutch legend one afternoon in Alicante, a moment he described as unforgettable.

Can Bordalas break his Barcelona jinx? (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

That admiration makes tonight’s setting particularly symbolic. Getafe will face Barcelona at the Estadi Johan Cruyff, a venue that recently hosted Barça’s 6-0 win over Valencia.

As mentioned earlier, the Azulones are heading into this game on the back of nine points collected in four matches.

The report adds that Bordalas’ reputation comes from making the most of what he has. On the opening day, his side defeated Celta despite having just 13 registered first-team players.

Christantus Uche, a former midfielder converted by Bordalas into a striker, scored and assisted before sealing a €20 million move to Crystal Palace.

But one record that will be in focus today is that Bordalas has never beaten Barcelona in an away match, recording six defeats and one draw. Doing so tonight, though, at the Johan Cruyff stadium, will be a fairytale story for the coach.