Fierce Genius
Regular price
€25.99
In 1983, aged 36, Johan Cruyff, one of the world's most iconic football superstars, guided Ajax to a league and cup double. Out of contract, most people, including the player, expected a valedictory final season and a one-year extension. Inexplicably, Ajax let him go. They grossly underestimated the fierce genius of Johan Cruyff. He signed for bitter rivals Feyenoord, leading them to a league and cup double, silencing his critics and thrilling football fans everywhere. Fierce Genius analyses this incredible season, as he evolves from player to coach. It is a fascinating insight into his professional and private life. Imperious on the park, off it, he dealt with kidnappings and bankruptcy after being defrauded by a conman. Bollen gets inside Cruyff's mind, helping the reader understand the mentality which made him a top player and successful coach. Fierce Genius: Cruyff's Year at Feyenoord is compelling, insightful and poignant. Written with a journalistic tone, by an accomplished comedy writer, this is a warm, affectionate and informative portrait of one of world football's greats.
Andy Bollen is a comedy writer, author of critically acclaimed Nirvana: A Tour Diary, political spoof Sandy Trout: The Memoir and bestseller A History of Scottish Football in 100 Objects. He has written for BBC TV and radio for 25 years, including Only an Excuse?, Off the Ball and BBC Radio Five Live. He writes for football periodical Nutmeg and previously for The Sunday Mail, Glasgow Herald, Scotland on Sunday and The New York Times.