There is a philosophical concept called Panpsychism, which suggests that everything we perceive is the result of our consciousness. We will never truly know how others perceive the world, just as they will never fully understand how we do.
A similar situation exists between people in the football industry and the fans of this sport. Although fans like me may know the rules and principles of football, it is nearly impossible to fully grasp the lives of players, coaches, and others within the industry.
This is why reading football biographies offers valuable insights, allowing us to understand their personal opinions, private lives, hidden thoughts, and the backgrounds of their success or failures.
Zlatan’s Biography
When I was in high school, I have to admit I wasn’t the most confident or bravest student. I struggled with my identity and my direction in life.
However, I knew I was deeply connected to two things: football and one horror game franchise (which I won’t reveal here).
In football, I admired many coaches and managers. Managing a team and being in charge sounded fascinating to me. Yet, one player always made me curious and became a source of inspiration: Zlatan Ibrahimović.
His biography sparked something within me – a feeling of transformation. It ignited a fire of confidence.
He wrote his book as if he were a god. His mentality continues to impress me today.
Although no one believed in or supported him early on, he never doubted himself. He saw himself as the best.
For some, this may come across as arrogance, but he built his career on the image he portrayed.
Interestingly, he mentions his martial arts training, which enabled him to perform acrobatic moves that few others could replicate. It shows that you never know which skills might become useful in the future.
Ferguson’s Legacy
For me, managers are the most significant figures in football. Especially in the Premier League, there are numerous extraordinary managers.
Yet, one stands out – not just for his victories but for his character.
Although I support Arsenal and deeply admire Arsène Wenger, I must admit that the name that stands above others is Sir Alex Ferguson.
I first read his autobiography to practice my English. Recently, I revisited it and noticed some important lessons that apply not just to football but to life itself.
The tone of Ferguson’s book is quite different from Ibrahimović’s. It’s more emotional and humble, less bold and ambitious.
Ferguson opens by discussing his hopes for Manchester United’s future. Perhaps he foresaw difficult times ahead, yet he insisted that the club’s unbreakable character would eventually restore its former glory.
One headline he shares in the book particularly struck me. A journalist credited Ferguson’s success “despite his origins.”
Ferguson responded firmly: Success should not be limited by a person’s background or origins. Unfortunately, people’s backgrounds are still often perceived as weaknesses. Ferguson fought this prejudice throughout his career.
He doesn’t only speak of glories; he also reflects on his failures. Defeats against Everton in the 1995 FA Cup, two losses to Barcelona in Champions League finals, and Manchester City’s last-minute title wins – all are part of his story.
He is not ashamed of these setbacks. On the contrary, he acknowledges that these failures shaped his strength.
Lastly, Ferguson dedicates chapters to the players he worked with – Ronaldo, Rooney, Keane, and Van Nistelrooy. He reminds readers that his success was shaped alongside these players.
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The Legend: Alex de Souza
I’ve watched many talented footballers, but Alex de Souza holds a special place in the hearts of Fenerbahçe supporters. His vision, quick thinking, passes, and long shots – he was the mastermind on the pitch.
In 2012, a shocking event occurred.
Alex and the former president, Aziz Yıldırım, clashed over power dynamics in the locker room.
Rumours circulated about conflicts with the manager, Aykut Kocaman, over decisions and tactics for the season. The president had to choose between them, and ultimately, Alex was the one accused of being the troublemaker. His contract was terminated.
Fans were devastated and refused to believe the official narrative. For years, only one side of the story existed until Alex’s biography was released.
His book reveals the tensions that began in the 2010/2011 season and offers an insider’s view of the club’s struggles during that period.
I admire this book because Alex strives to remain objective and doesn’t shy away from admitting his own mistakes.
He also shares stories about his childhood and life in Brazil – the conditions he overcame to become a footballer, the legends he followed, and his personal transformation.
He offers advice for young players on skill development, his professional routines, and adopting the right mentality. Of course, he includes some humorous moments, because football isn’t just about serious games.
Football Biographies Offer More Than Just Stories
It is impossible to fully know the life of another person, not even those closest to us, and perhaps not even ourselves.
These football biographies illuminate the hidden corners of the football world and bring us insights like Prometheus bringing fire to humanity.
For those who love this sport, it is invaluable to learn about the dramas, failures, and conflicts behind the legends of football.
My next topic will explore the evolution of football throughout history.
While walking through Notting Hill, I came across a beautiful leather ball. I didn’t buy it, but it inspired me to write about it!
Main Photo
Credit: IMAGO / Imaginechina
Recording Date: 22.10.2013