Saudi Arabia of Europe? How Türkiye’s summer transfer window changed the game
By Sam Tighe for ESPN
Turkish football has always had a taste for big names, but this summer's spending has taken things to another level. Mohamed Salah's arrival at Trabzonspor is part of a remarkable transfer window in which the country's biggest clubs have competed for some of Europe's most recognisable players. Yet, whilst the excitement is understandable, questions remain about whether it is sustainable.
Palermo, Catania and Messina… Discovering Sicily’s Soul Through Football
By Dan Cancian for Destination Football
In 2006, Sicily had three clubs in Serie A and seemed ready to challenge Italian football's established order. Two decades later, none remain. In the intervening two decades, Palermo, Catania and Messina have endured relegations and financial collapses yet, throughout, their fans’ passion has remained as strong as ever.
Crvena Zvezda in Limbo
By Nebojša Marković for The Belgrader
Nine consecutive league titles have made Crvena Zvezda virtually untouchable in Serbia, yet when it comes to Europe they continue to falter. With domestic competition offering little preparation for tougher opponents, new manager Albert Riera is left with the difficult task of building a side capable of competing beyond its borders.
Each week on Cultured Football we pick the five great football stories from the previous seven days.
10 unwritten rules of English football
By Joey D'Urso for Joey D'Urso's football
English football has unwritten rules, many of which are perfectly obvious to regular supporters but can surprise visitors. From where you sit to how you react when your team loses, these small customs are all part of the culture of watching football in England. Ignore them at your peril.
Bonus Read: The Language of Calcio
[ Luke Taylor x FORZA CALCIO]
Italian football has a rich and unique game a vocabulary that extends far beyond tactics and positions; understanding these expressions offers another way of appreciating calcio and its history.
Superstition and Sorcery: The influence of magic in Iranian football
By behnam jafarzadeh for How Football Explains Asia
In Iranian football, superstition sometimes extends well beyond the usual pre-match rituals. Former internationals and coaches have spoken of sorcerers being consulted, spells cast against opponents and even team selections can be influenced by numerology.
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In Case You Missed It Here’s Last Week’s Most Read: The Geography of Winning
By Dave Proudlove for Football Heritage
English football clubs have always been shaped by the places they represent, from industrial cities to provincial towns. Often, the managers who leave the deepest impression are the ones who get this connection and reflect it.