Liverpool Legend John Toshack Honoured in Spain After Health Struggles
- Liverpool legend John Toshack made an emotional return to the spotlight after surviving a life-threatening battle with pneumonia
- Supporters of both Real Sociedad and Real Madrid rose to their feet in unison, delivering a rapturous ovation
- From lifting trophies at Anfield to guiding Real Madrid to La Liga glory, Toshack’s remarkable journey continues to inspire
Liverpool great John Toshack received a standing ovation during an emotional tribute at Real Sociedad on Saturday, September 13, 2025.
The 76-year-old Welsh, who faced a life-threatening battle with pneumonia in 2022, made a rare public appearance as the Spanish club presented him with their prestigious Diamond and Gold badge.
Source: Getty Images
According to the Express, fans from both Sociedad and Real Madrid rose to their feet before kick-off, celebrating a man who managed both sides and left an indelible mark on Spanish football.
Club president Jokin Aperribay personally handed over the honour in front of a packed stadium.
John Toschack's health battle
Toshack’s presence on the pitch carried extra weight given his health history. Three years ago, he spent weeks in intensive care after Covid complications triggered pneumonia.
Reflecting on the ordeal, he admitted:
“When somebody tells you that you were out for two weeks, it’s frightening. You can win a championship in two weeks or get relegated. When I think back on it now, it’s frightening.”
His recovery allowed fans to witness a moment of recognition many feared might never come.
Toshack remains a Liverpool cult hero, scoring 74 goals in 172 games after joining from Cardiff in 1970, according to Wikipedia.
He lifted nine trophies with the Reds before turning to management, where his career spanned over four decades and multiple continents.
His first managerial role with Swansea City saw him guide the club from the fourth tier to the top flight.
Later, he won La Liga with Real Madrid in 1990 and enjoyed two spells in charge of Real Sociedad. He also managed across Europe, including stints in Turkey, France, and Macedonia.
Beyond club football, Toshack’s influence on the Welsh national team is still felt today. During his two spells as manager, he placed trust in young players, handing debuts to Gareth Bale, Aaron Ramsey and Joe Allen while they were still teenagers. That vision laid the foundation for Wales’ modern footballing success.
Source: Getty Images
Xabi Alonso’s heartfelt tribute
Among those present to honour Toshack was Real Madrid coach and fellow Liverpool icon Xabi Alonso. The Spaniard has often spoken of Toshack’s role in shaping his career.
“I would not have had the success I have had if it was not for John Toshack,” Alonso once said, recalling how Toshack promoted him to Real Sociedad’s senior team.
From winning silverware at Anfield to transforming Swansea, guiding Real Madrid to league glory, and developing Welsh football’s brightest talents, Toshack’s journey is one of resilience, triumph, and enduring legacy.
His tribute at Sociedad served as a fitting reminder of how much he has given to the game — and how deeply he is admired across generations.
When David Beckham was hospitalised
YEN.com.gh previously covered David Beckham’s hospitalisation to address a wrist injury that he suffered some 22 years ago.
The incident came during a crucial period in Beckham’s early career, as he was establishing himself as one of Manchester United’s rising stars in the Premier League, and fans were concerned about the impact the injury might have on his development.
Source: YEN.com.gh
