Former Tottenham Player and Wimbledon Manager Joe Kinnear Passes Away at 77

Former Tottenham player and football manager Joe Kinnear has passed away at the age of 77. Kinnear, who had been battling dementia since 2015, died on April 7, 2024, surrounded by his family.

In a statement released by Kinnear’s family, they expressed their sadness at his passing and fondly remembered him both as a player and a manager.

Kinnear’s family stated, “We are sad to announce that Joe passed away peacefully this afternoon surrounded by his family. Joe, who was 77, had been suffering from dementia having been diagnosed in 2015. He will be remembered fondly by many – both as a player and a manager. His Wimbledon team finishing sixth in the 1993-94 Premier League was a phenomenal achievement.”

Kinnear enjoyed a distinguished career in football, primarily as a player for Tottenham Hotspur, where he won the FA Cup in 1967.

Transitioning to management after retiring from playing, Kinnear had stints at various clubs overseas before making his mark at Wimbledon.

His managerial career included spells at clubs such as Nottingham Forest and Newcastle United, where he served as both manager and director of football.

Newcastle United paid tribute to Kinnear, expressing sadness at his passing and acknowledging his contributions to the club.

Newcastle United’s statement read, “Newcastle United is saddened to learn of the passing of Joe Kinnear at the age of 77. Joe worked at the club as both manager and director of football. The thoughts of everyone at #NUFC are with Joe’s family and friends at this difficult time.”

Ange Postecoglou, the current manager of Tottenham Hotspur, described Kinnear as a significant figure in the club’s history, praising his achievements and character. Despite never meeting him personally, Postecoglou highlighted Kinnear’s positive reputation within the football community.

Postecoglou stated, “I never got the opportunity to meet him but everyone speaks very highly of him as a person which is always the barometer around these things. A sad loss, particularly to those closest to him but never forgotten at this football club.”