Jakob Kuhn was born on December 10, 1943 in Zurich, Switzerland. He was a talented soccer player who had an illustrious career as both a player and a manager. His dedication and hard work on the field made him one of the most respected figures in Swiss soccer history.
Kuhn began his soccer journey at a young age, honing his skills on the streets of Zurich. He joined FC Zürich, where he played as a midfielder for an impressive 16-year period. During his time at the club, he competed in the Swiss Cup five times and won the Swiss Super League six times. His exceptional performances on the field earned him 63 international caps for Switzerland, showcasing his talent on the world stage.
After hanging up his boots as a player, Kuhn transitioned into coaching. He took on various managerial roles, including a stint as the manager of FC Zürich from 1983 until 1984. He later served as the coach of the Switzerland U21 team from 1995 until 2001, before eventually taking over the helm of the Swiss national team from 2001 until 2008. Under his guidance, the Swiss team achieved notable success and Kuhn solidified his reputation as a skilled and strategic manager.
Despite his professional success, Kuhn faced personal challenges throughout his life. His wife experienced a frightening health scare before Euro 2008 when she suffered an epileptic attack that led to her being placed in an induced coma for nine days. This difficult period tested Kuhn's resilience and strength, but he continued to remain focused on his career and his responsibilities as a husband and father.
Throughout his life, Jakob Kuhn embodied the values of hard work, perseverance, and dedication. His legacy as a player and a manager continues to inspire future generations of soccer enthusiasts, leaving a lasting impact on the sport in Switzerland and beyond.