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#2Sides: My Autobiography
Rio Ferdinand is one of the finest footballers of his generation – a Champions League and Premier League-winning centre back who began life as an ambitious kid on the council estates of south-east London only to grow into one of the game’s greatest stoppers. Candid, outspoken and supremely honest, this is his story: from the early days as a schoolboy trying to impress the local kids on the muddy pitches of Peckham, through to picking up the Champions League trophy on a rainy summer’s night in Moscow, #2Sides is the tell-all account of a unique life in the game. On winning and losing; on defending and attacking; on managers and fellow players; on friendships and rivalries; on the ups and downs of the beautiful game; and on playing for club, country and for yourself – this is a full spectrum of life at the very top of the footballing tree, and a superb retrospective of a truly fascinating career.
350 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 2, 2014
21 people are currently reading
410 people want to read
About the author
Rio Ferdinand
6 books3 followersRio Gavin Ferdinand (born 7 November 1978) is an English footballer. He plays at centre back for Manchester United in the Premier League and at the international level for the England national football team. He has achieved 70 caps for the English national team while being selected for three FIFA World Cup squads. He is currently the vice-captain of the England national team and stand-in captain for Manchester United.
Known for his physical presence and composure on the ball, Ferdinand began his football career playing for various youth teams, finally settling at West Ham United where he progressed through the youth ranks and made his professional Premier League debut in 1996. He became a fan favourite, winning the 'Hammer of the Year award' the following season. He earned his first senior international cap in a match against Cameroon in 1997, setting a record as the youngest defender to play for England at the time. His achievements and footballing potential attracted Leeds United and he transferred to the club for a record-breaking fee of £18 million. He spent two seasons at the club, becoming the team captain in 2001.
He joined Manchester United in July 2002 for around £30 million, breaking the transfer fee record once more. He won the Premier League, his first major club honour, in a successful first season at the club. He missed a drugs test and was banned from competition for eight months, causing him to miss half a Premier League season and the Euro 2004 international competition. Upon his return, he established himself in the Manchester United first team and received plaudits for his performances, featuring in the PFA Team of the Year three times in four years. More club success followed with another Premier League win in the 2006–07 season and a Premier League and UEFA Champions League double the following year. His importance to the national team was underlined in March 2008 when Ferdinand captained England for the first time.
Ferdinand has two sons, Lorenz and Tate, with his fiancée Rebecca Ellison. His family is known for footballing prowess: brother Anton Ferdinand is also a centre back and former England international Les Ferdinand is his cousin. Off the pitch he is involved with music and television including the brief prank series Rio's World Cup Wind-Ups.
Known for his physical presence and composure on the ball, Ferdinand began his football career playing for various youth teams, finally settling at West Ham United where he progressed through the youth ranks and made his professional Premier League debut in 1996. He became a fan favourite, winning the 'Hammer of the Year award' the following season. He earned his first senior international cap in a match against Cameroon in 1997, setting a record as the youngest defender to play for England at the time. His achievements and footballing potential attracted Leeds United and he transferred to the club for a record-breaking fee of £18 million. He spent two seasons at the club, becoming the team captain in 2001.
He joined Manchester United in July 2002 for around £30 million, breaking the transfer fee record once more. He won the Premier League, his first major club honour, in a successful first season at the club. He missed a drugs test and was banned from competition for eight months, causing him to miss half a Premier League season and the Euro 2004 international competition. Upon his return, he established himself in the Manchester United first team and received plaudits for his performances, featuring in the PFA Team of the Year three times in four years. More club success followed with another Premier League win in the 2006–07 season and a Premier League and UEFA Champions League double the following year. His importance to the national team was underlined in March 2008 when Ferdinand captained England for the first time.
Ferdinand has two sons, Lorenz and Tate, with his fiancée Rebecca Ellison. His family is known for footballing prowess: brother Anton Ferdinand is also a centre back and former England international Les Ferdinand is his cousin. Off the pitch he is involved with music and television including the brief prank series Rio's World Cup Wind-Ups.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
October 3, 2014
Enjoyed this, just wish it had been a bit longer. Rather than a typical chronological view of his career this is a series of chapters dealing with specific subjects. Ferdinand comes over as driven, articulate and intelligent. He does not pull punches but does try to provide balanced views. This is demonstrated with his views on David Moyes who he does describe as a very honest and decent guy, but who was not tactically up to the requirements of a club that expects to win, not just survive. Likewise his views on race and the Suarez incident provides his side of the story and the detail on the John Terry affair. Some interesting views in the various Engalnd managers and, of course, Fergie. Plus some United legends such as as Scholes, Keane and Ronaldo.
Light mention is made of his doping ban and his gambling problems and these were key elements of his story and it would have been interesting to have had a bit more.
I applaud Rio for not taking a lazy approach to this book and for actually expressing some opinions rather than just boasting about his career and a game by game story. It did feel that it was not a typical autobiography cash in and did provide depth to what makes the author tick.
Having said that I feel he had much more to share and at well under 300 pages this is not great value for money if we look at the full cover price. But Rio Ferdinand is a United and England legend and I did find his views and perspective far from bland.
Light mention is made of his doping ban and his gambling problems and these were key elements of his story and it would have been interesting to have had a bit more.
I applaud Rio for not taking a lazy approach to this book and for actually expressing some opinions rather than just boasting about his career and a game by game story. It did feel that it was not a typical autobiography cash in and did provide depth to what makes the author tick.
Having said that I feel he had much more to share and at well under 300 pages this is not great value for money if we look at the full cover price. But Rio Ferdinand is a United and England legend and I did find his views and perspective far from bland.
October 24, 2014
Impressive and another compulsory read for true United fans.
September 18, 2020
Not a traditional autobiography as the chapters are thematic so it takes patience to allow the book to build a full picture of a dedicated professional footballer who makes time for life away from the game. The complete absence of any reference to that missed drugs test is a weakness but the candour and self-depreciating style of writing make for an illuminating read.
January 10, 2024
Rio Ferdinand's autobiography, #2Sides: My Autobiography, is a riveting and candid exploration of the life of one of football's most iconic figures. From the highs of sporting triumphs to the lows of personal challenges, Ferdinand's journey unfolds in a compelling narrative that provides readers with a deep and personal insight into the man behind the football legend.
One of the most commendable aspects of #2Sides is Ferdinand's willingness to bare his soul, offering readers an unfiltered look into his successes and setbacks. His honest reflection on the impact of his upbringing, family dynamics, and personal struggles creates a genuine connection with the audience, making this autobiography more than just a sports memoir.
The book seamlessly weaves together Ferdinand's professional achievements, from his early days at West Ham United to his glory years at Manchester United, with his personal experiences and growth. Readers are treated to behind-the-scenes stories of life in the football world, including the challenges and triumphs that come with being a high-profile athlete.
Ferdinand's openness about the tragic loss of his wife, Rebecca, to cancer is both heartbreaking and inspiring. The emotional depth with which he shares this painful chapter of his life showcases his resilience and humanity. #2Sides becomes a testament to the strength of the human spirit, demonstrating how one can overcome adversity with determination, love, and support.
The autobiography also sheds light on Ferdinand's commitment to social issues, using his platform to advocate for change within the sport and society at large. His insights into the world of football, including the impact of racism and the evolving nature of the game, contribute to a broader conversation about the role of athletes in shaping societal values.
In addition to its emotional depth and societal relevance, #2Sides is a page-turner for football enthusiasts. Ferdinand's anecdotes about his experiences with legendary teammates, managers, and opponents provide a fascinating glimpse into the inner workings of professional football.
Ultimately, #2Sides: My Autobiography by Rio Ferdinand is a compelling and multifaceted narrative that transcends the genre of sports autobiography. Ferdinand's ability to balance personal vulnerability with professional triumphs creates a story that resonates with a wide audience, offering inspiration, entertainment, and a profound understanding of the man behind the football legend.
One of the most commendable aspects of #2Sides is Ferdinand's willingness to bare his soul, offering readers an unfiltered look into his successes and setbacks. His honest reflection on the impact of his upbringing, family dynamics, and personal struggles creates a genuine connection with the audience, making this autobiography more than just a sports memoir.
The book seamlessly weaves together Ferdinand's professional achievements, from his early days at West Ham United to his glory years at Manchester United, with his personal experiences and growth. Readers are treated to behind-the-scenes stories of life in the football world, including the challenges and triumphs that come with being a high-profile athlete.
Ferdinand's openness about the tragic loss of his wife, Rebecca, to cancer is both heartbreaking and inspiring. The emotional depth with which he shares this painful chapter of his life showcases his resilience and humanity. #2Sides becomes a testament to the strength of the human spirit, demonstrating how one can overcome adversity with determination, love, and support.
The autobiography also sheds light on Ferdinand's commitment to social issues, using his platform to advocate for change within the sport and society at large. His insights into the world of football, including the impact of racism and the evolving nature of the game, contribute to a broader conversation about the role of athletes in shaping societal values.
In addition to its emotional depth and societal relevance, #2Sides is a page-turner for football enthusiasts. Ferdinand's anecdotes about his experiences with legendary teammates, managers, and opponents provide a fascinating glimpse into the inner workings of professional football.
Ultimately, #2Sides: My Autobiography by Rio Ferdinand is a compelling and multifaceted narrative that transcends the genre of sports autobiography. Ferdinand's ability to balance personal vulnerability with professional triumphs creates a story that resonates with a wide audience, offering inspiration, entertainment, and a profound understanding of the man behind the football legend.
March 4, 2015
I very much enjoyed this book. Rio is very honest and comes across as very intelligent and entrepreneurial. It was fascinating reading his insights into his time at Manchester United (especially throughout the David Moyes era as it gave a first hand account of why things were so bad) and it was very interesting reading about the mentality top class players carry and the driving forces that push them to succeed. Rio's insights into the racism incidents that affected both his friends and family and his insights regarding the England squad were fascinating and worth reading. There were a few spelling and grammatical errors that I picked up on from time to time that unfortunately diminished my enjoyment of the book which has prevented this from being a 4 star review. Overall however a good, honest and enjoyable read from a remarkable, intelligent player.
October 26, 2014
Absolutely brilliant.
My opinions are not literary, but from the perspective of a football fan. A bold, expressive and honest Rio Ferdinand talks in detail about some of the highlights of his career, the highs as well as the lows. Within a few pages the reader would realize how we have grossly misconstrued some stories, thanks to the media.
His style is not a 'footballing' language so to speak, but exceptionally candid; perhaps enough to intrigue the minds of those who don't even follow the sport.
He has regarded every mentioned person with respect, even those who let him down. (including David Moyes)
A must read for every fellow Red.
My opinions are not literary, but from the perspective of a football fan. A bold, expressive and honest Rio Ferdinand talks in detail about some of the highlights of his career, the highs as well as the lows. Within a few pages the reader would realize how we have grossly misconstrued some stories, thanks to the media.
His style is not a 'footballing' language so to speak, but exceptionally candid; perhaps enough to intrigue the minds of those who don't even follow the sport.
He has regarded every mentioned person with respect, even those who let him down. (including David Moyes)
A must read for every fellow Red.
October 25, 2014
I brought the book as a quick read and I am a huge football fan. He seems a genuine guy and has been an excellent footballer for the past 10-15 years, just awesome. Also has some great insights to the game tactically and overall.
The book has been really poorly edited and noticed 5-8 mistakes in the texts I.e. Words missing and doubled up. But other wise a good easy read. Now on too Roy Keane. This should be interesting.
The book has been really poorly edited and noticed 5-8 mistakes in the texts I.e. Words missing and doubled up. But other wise a good easy read. Now on too Roy Keane. This should be interesting.
October 30, 2014
Great. Sincere and with a lot of behind the scenes and Rios thinking.
September 5, 2017
I hold a lot of respect for Rio Ferdinand, as a pro footballer and as a person. His autobiography was first published in 2014 and since then his life has suffered massive upheavals with the death of his wife Rebecca, who he refers to in this book as his rock.
'#2Sides' was put together by Ferdinand recording his thoughts and having the text written up by a David Winner. So we can blame him for the poor edit. Clearly, this is a popular format for sporting biographies, and this is the third publication from the international defender. However, in this case, Rio's dialogue maintains a very readable flow of his thoughts and opinions on many football related subjects. As is usually the case, the English F.A. comes in for the usual criticisms of its failings to the domestic game.
Having established the Rio Ferdinand Foundation he clearly wishes to give something back to society and he should be applauded for that. What comes across in this book is Ferdinand is a very level headed person, in spite of his fame and wealth. After his retirement from the game in 2015 he now appears as a tv pundit. Perhaps his experience warrants a greater involvement in the game.
'#2Sides' was put together by Ferdinand recording his thoughts and having the text written up by a David Winner. So we can blame him for the poor edit. Clearly, this is a popular format for sporting biographies, and this is the third publication from the international defender. However, in this case, Rio's dialogue maintains a very readable flow of his thoughts and opinions on many football related subjects. As is usually the case, the English F.A. comes in for the usual criticisms of its failings to the domestic game.
Having established the Rio Ferdinand Foundation he clearly wishes to give something back to society and he should be applauded for that. What comes across in this book is Ferdinand is a very level headed person, in spite of his fame and wealth. After his retirement from the game in 2015 he now appears as a tv pundit. Perhaps his experience warrants a greater involvement in the game.
March 31, 2022
Well I’m a big Rio fan but not sure I can say the same about his book. Interesting stories on occasion, scant childhood info and at times he contradicts himself. To be fair I feel the language is aimed at Daily Star readers so I could’ve been expecting too much.
I will read his other books but this ranks alongside the blandest of the Man United autobiographies I’ve read.
I will read his other books but this ranks alongside the blandest of the Man United autobiographies I’ve read.
February 15, 2024
This is an interesting book to read. Each chapter is a different mini story where Rio talks about multiple subjects, from his time in the England squad to his views of players and managers such as Rooney, Ronaldo, Messi.
If you're a Manchester United and/or England fan you'll read this with a smile and you'll enjoy the book.
If you're a Manchester United and/or England fan you'll read this with a smile and you'll enjoy the book.
June 6, 2018
Just a teaser
It was a I'm read but felt he had more to offer more in depth mortgage stories etched.
Felt this was just scratching the surface of his journey.
It was a I'm read but felt he had more to offer more in depth mortgage stories etched.
Felt this was just scratching the surface of his journey.
January 3, 2020
Really enjoyed this. Not a run through from youth football to retirement, more a discussion of significant events and subjects in his life. A good read for a football fan
June 25, 2020
A gud buk
August 23, 2020
The RIO way!
A must read for Man Utd Fans and also for everyone who lives/loves the games
A must read for Man Utd Fans and also for everyone who lives/loves the games
June 28, 2021
It was a good book, a good insight into the mind of a footballer. Nothing special in the book, it’s why you expect but that’s what makes it good.
June 24, 2018
Honest and well written
Rio tells you his honest storey about being a top professional football player. The book is easy to read and will enjoy people with a heart for Manchester United and a great football biography!
Rio tells you his honest storey about being a top professional football player. The book is easy to read and will enjoy people with a heart for Manchester United and a great football biography!
January 26, 2020
Probably one of the best autobiographies i have ever read. I have learned a lot from this book, about Rio's up-bring, how he got noticed into the football world, what he learned along the way, his highs and lows, particularly his fatal injury which nearly ended his footballing career completely, and his superb career for Manchester United. I have learned a lot about the game, through Rio's clear, depth, analysis of the game, his experiences and his struggles that the game brought later on in his career. Having meet Rio Ferdinand in person, i can say how much of kind, charismatic, leader who has truly fell in love with the game. His vision, strength and expertise is second to none and, throughout the training, I learned loads about the game and has helped me, massively, as a footballer- it was the best week of my life and it gave me passion and determination to pursue my dream as a professional footballer.
In summary, i recommend anyone this book who loves the game and has a drive in the them to be a better version of themselves, and Rio talks about this in his book, not just on the pitch but off it which really counts in life.
In summary, i recommend anyone this book who loves the game and has a drive in the them to be a better version of themselves, and Rio talks about this in his book, not just on the pitch but off it which really counts in life.
May 16, 2016
I thoroughly enjoyed this autobiography by Rio Ferdinand. It was great to hear the thoughts & insights of one of United's greatest ever defenders on past moments & events especially the two champions league finals that we lost against FC Barcelona. Also, it was a interesting to know about some of his interests & activities in & out of football. He seems to be a great person & an outstanding professional.
Thank you Rio for sharing.
Thank you Rio for sharing.
January 23, 2015
Slightly different take on the usual football autobiography -- more thought pieces of how Rio sees football, its personalities and the other parts of his life including his restaurant and magazine. He comes across as thoughtful and certainly exhibits that he has what it takes to have life outside of football especially since he's not been in QPR side for along time now!
February 23, 2015
If you're hoping for a complete autobiography with a structured timeline and one filled with details, this book isn't for you. For all those Rio fans out there who want to know more about him, this should be right up your alley. It's a collection of Rio's fond memories and candid opinions. He's as Rio as Rio can get. A must for a Rio Ferdinand fan. I liked it.
March 18, 2015
Never been the biggest fan of Rio as a player but thought his book would be interesting and was not dissapointed. Some interesting chapters and insights into the likes of genuine world class players Ronaldo and Messi etc. The John Terry chapter was also very enlighting. An interesting read for any football fan.
May 4, 2015
I did enjoy this biography by Footballer Rio Ferdinand who shares his thoughts on life and Football. Not the usual Football biography where behind the scenes exposes are discussed but nevertheless interesting and entertaining. No great revelations but a reasonably quick and easy read that entertains.
March 1, 2016
I watched Rio from a young age, and have always been impressed with him as a player. The book portrays him as a caring, and socially responsible man, with much to be admired. However, the book itself was pretty bland, nothing exciting or even any funny anecdotes. As the rating suggests, it was OK, but nothing more.
February 2, 2017
TOTALLY LOVED IT! Enjoyed it so much and learned quite a lot about Rio and football in general. The insight he gives about defenders and the beautiful game as well as his career, made me admire him and respect him even more. Rio is, without a doubt, one of my all-time favorite footballers. This is a book I enjoyed to the fullest and will read again! ❤
January 31, 2015
A good insight into the life of a top Premier League footballer. The book would, however, have benefited from the eye of a good editor given the plethora of spelling mistakes and grammatical errors throughout.
July 26, 2015
I could have said it better than one of the reviews I read: "Enjoyed this, just wish it had been a bit longer. Rather than a typical chronological view of his career this is a series of chapters dealing with specific subjects."
November 27, 2014
Quite a good read
June 7, 2015
Brilliant. Very enjoyable.
January 23, 2015
Just okay.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews