John Toshack has publicly denied suffering from dementia, just days after his son Cameron Toshack claimed otherwise.
Now 77, Toshack enjoyed a distinguished career both on the pitch and in the dugout. He is best remembered for his time at Liverpool F.C. between 1970 and 1978, where he played a key role in winning three First Division titles and a European Cup, among other trophies.
After retiring in 1984, the Welshman—who earned 40 caps for Wales national team—went on to manage several clubs, including Sporting CP and Real Madrid (twice), as well as national teams like Wales and North Macedonia. His last managerial role came in 2018 with Azerbaijani side Tractor.
On March 25, Cameron, now a coach at Thai club Buriram United, told the Daily Mail that his father was dealing with dementia. He described it as a “terrible disease,” noting that while Toshack has “good and bad days,” his short-term memory appears affected. However, he added that his father’s long-term football memories remain remarkably sharp, recalling in detail past matches—such as a Real Madrid clash against AC Milan under Arrigo Sacchi, including tactical adjustments to counter Marco van Basten.
Cameron also said his father still offers valuable advice, especially regarding his coaching work in Thailand.
Toshack’s wife, Mai Angulo, strongly disputed the claims, pointing out that Cameron hasn’t seen his father in two years and only speaks with him occasionally. She expressed surprise that such statements were made publicly.
Toshack himself addressed the issue in an interview with El Mundo, joking, “Dementia? Not yet. I’ve forgotten the goals I missed, but I clearly remember the ones I scored.”
He also revealed he previously battled COVID-19, which, according to his wife, left him with serious physical and mental after-effects. She recalled the difficult period when he was in intensive care, sedated and disoriented for over ten days, unsure of his surroundings upon recovery.
She added that it was a deeply challenging time, marked by anxiety and a lack of support from many people outside a close circle of friends
