Cultured Football #188
Origins of Football Kits. Passion in Berlin. From Stands to Pitch. Football in a time of War. Return of Man-to-Man Marking.
How Clubs Got Their Colours
By Various for ESPN
Did you know that a now defunct Nottingham football club inspired AC Milan’s kit? Or that River Plate owe their iconic red sash to a Buenos Aires musical called "Los Habitantes del Infierno" ("The Inhabitants of Hell")? I didn’t, which is why I thoroughly enjoyed this dive into the origins and evolutions of some of the world’s most famous football kits.
Bonus Read: Can Francesco Farioli get Ajax back on top in the Eredivisie?
[Ross Kilvington x Fotmob]
Speaking of iconic clubs, after one of the worst seasons in their history, Ajax seem to be on the way back thanks to their young Italian coach, Francesco Farioli.
Echoes of Passion
By Guirec Munier for Lower Block
Union Berlin’s fortunes have returned to normality after hitting the previously unimagined heights of the Champions League. Even so, a trip to watch them play at home remains an experience.
'I went along to support Scotland. I ended up making my debut'
By Sarah Crilly for
Who hasn’t dreamt of being called from the obscurity of a crowd to star on the pitch. regardless of their ability (or, in my case, inability)? Only for Sarah Crilly, that dream actually happened.
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Defying war, Gaza’s footballers play on
By for
It is incredibly hard to put into words the emotions that this story elicits. And a reminder of how football can bring some joy where it seems impossible for there to be any.
Man-to-Man Marking: The Throwback System Helping Bundesliga Teams Defend Better
By Bergas Brillianto for Analytics FC
Whilst it is true that the game of football is constantly evolving and tactics forever shifting, it is also true that nothing new is ever really invented in the game. Still the return of man-to-man marking at so many Bundesliga clubs is remarkable. With none adopting it as well as Bayern Munich.
Bonus Read: Fabian Hürzeler Turned Out To Be The Best Successor of Roberto De Zerbi
[ x ]
Having won the Zweite Bundesliga, Fabian Hürzeler never got the opportunity to test himself in the German top flight because he was quickly lured away by Brighton. And, in doing so, has proven to be a revelation in the Premier League.
Book Review: How to Win the Premier League by Ian Graham
By for
Many have written about the data revolution that has washed over football in recent years. None of those books, however, were penned by someone who was at the heart of one of the most admired data departments in the football world. That alone makes this a worthwhile read. Even though one with its flaws. Want to know if you should get this book? Check out the full review.
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Last Week’s Most Read: If You're Going To Fail, Fail Quickly
By John Blain for More Than A Game
Even though we’re still barely into November, Roma are already in their third coach of the season. And, whilst it is good to see Claudio Ranieri back in football, it does not necessarily bring to mind brilliant planning from those running the show. Could it be, however, that their mistakes turn into important lessons for the future?