Today, 35 years later, Deyna's legacy continues to resonate not just in the world of football but also in Polish pop culture. His image, stenciled and spray-painted, adorns the walls of many Polish cities, a testament to his enduring impact.
Deyna’s football career is etched in history with unforgettable moments. On September 10, 1972, during the Olympic Games in Munich, the Polish national team was trailing 0-1 against Hungary at halftime, with Deyna responsible for the mistake leading to the goal. But after the break, he redeemed himself by scoring twice, securing Poland’s first-ever Olympic gold in football and claiming the title of the tournament's top scorer.
Two years later, in 1974, Deyna captained Poland to a remarkable third-place finish at the World Cup, defeating the then-defending champions Brazil. His performances earned him accolades from football legends, including Pelé, who called Deyna the standout star of the tournament.
Despite his international success, Deyna's club career was largely confined to Poland due to the restrictions of the communist regime, which only allowed players over 30 to transfer abroad. He spent 12 years at Legia Warsaw, winning two national championships and a Polish Cup. His 304 appearances and 94 goals for the club made him a legend, second only to Lucjan Brychczy.
In 1978, after finally receiving permission to play abroad, Deyna signed with Manchester City at the age of 30. He bid farewell to Polish football in a match where he played one half for Legia and the other for Manchester City, scoring a goal for both teams.
Deyna's later years saw him move to the United States, where he played for the San Diego Sockers. Unfortunately, his life took a downward turn due to financial mismanagement, alcohol abuse, and personal troubles. On September 1, 1989, Deyna tragically died in a car accident on a Californian highway, with alcohol found in his system.
Deyna’s memory has been kept alive by fans and the football community. In 2012, his ashes were returned to Poland and buried at the Powązki Military Cemetery, and a monument was unveiled at Legia's stadium. In a final tribute, in 2006, Legia Warsaw retired his iconic number 10 jersey, ensuring that no player wears it again, solidifying his place as a true legend of Polish football.
(jh)
Source: PAP
