What do you think?
Rate this book
Manchester Unlimited: The Money, Egos and Infighting Behind the World's Richest Soccer Club
Today Manchester United is one of the world's richest and most successful sporting organizations, with an aura of invincibility surrounding it. No club in the history of English soccer has ever reached such a position. Yet exactly ten years ago Manchester United was up for sale to a man, who was described as an 'educationalist', for a mere L20 million, and even as late as 1993, United's income was less than that of Tottenham, a club which in the last ten years has seen two changes of ownership, horrendous Boardroom problems leading to court battles, and seven different managers. This is a unique behind-the-scenes look at the modern Manchester United - the circumstances, people, events and controversies that have made Manchester United plc what it is today.
322 pages, Hardcover
First published November 17, 2000
12 people want to read
About the author
Mihir Bose
51 books17 followersAbout Mihir Bose
Award-winning journalist and author Mihir Bose writes and broadcasts on social and historical issues and sport for outlets including the BBC, the Guardian, Financial Times, Evening Standard and Irish Times.
He has written more than fifty books on sport, including football and cricket, and history, such as Bollywood, India and the extraordinary WW2 quintuple agent Silver. The subjects of his many biographies include Michael Grade, Moeen Ali and the Indian nationalist Subhas Bose (no relation).
Mihir was the BBC’s first sports editor and first non-white editor. He was chief sports news correspondent at the Daily Telegraph and worked for the Sunday Times for 20 years.
His honorary doctorate from Loughborough University was awarded for his outstanding contribution to journalism and the promotion of equality. Mihir is a member of the English Heritage Blue Plaques Panel and former chairman of the Reform Club. He and his wife Caroline live in London. He has a daughter, Indira.
Award-winning journalist and author Mihir Bose writes and broadcasts on social and historical issues and sport for outlets including the BBC, the Guardian, Financial Times, Evening Standard and Irish Times.
He has written more than fifty books on sport, including football and cricket, and history, such as Bollywood, India and the extraordinary WW2 quintuple agent Silver. The subjects of his many biographies include Michael Grade, Moeen Ali and the Indian nationalist Subhas Bose (no relation).
Mihir was the BBC’s first sports editor and first non-white editor. He was chief sports news correspondent at the Daily Telegraph and worked for the Sunday Times for 20 years.
His honorary doctorate from Loughborough University was awarded for his outstanding contribution to journalism and the promotion of equality. Mihir is a member of the English Heritage Blue Plaques Panel and former chairman of the Reform Club. He and his wife Caroline live in London. He has a daughter, Indira.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews
January 3, 2024
"Manchester Unlimited" by Mihir Bose offers readers an in-depth look into the complex world of one of the wealthiest soccer clubs, exploring the interplay of money, egos, and internal conflicts. While the book provides a wealth of information and sheds light on the intricate dynamics within the club, it falls short in certain aspects.
One of the strengths of the book lies in Bose's meticulous research and insightful analysis. The author delves into the financial intricacies that have contributed to Manchester United's status as the world's richest soccer club. The detailed examination of key financial decisions, sponsorship deals, and the impact of global capitalism on the sport offers a comprehensive understanding of the club's financial landscape.
Additionally, Bose doesn't shy away from addressing the egos and power struggles among key figures within the club. Readers get a glimpse into the boardroom battles and the clashes of personalities that have shaped Manchester United's trajectory. The author's ability to present these narratives in a compelling and engaging manner adds depth to the overall reading experience.
However, the book has its drawbacks. Some readers might find the detailed financial discussions overwhelming and, at times, too technical. The intricate details of sponsorship deals and financial transactions may not resonate with those looking for a more casual or accessible read. Additionally, the narrative occasionally becomes convoluted, making it challenging to follow the chronological order of events.
Furthermore, while Bose provides a comprehensive overview of financial aspects and internal conflicts, the book lacks a deeper exploration of the human side of the story. Readers looking for personal anecdotes or a more intimate portrayal of key figures involved may be left wanting.
In conclusion, "Manchester Unlimited" offers a thorough examination of the economic and power dynamics behind Manchester United, making it a valuable read for those interested in the business side of soccer. However, its technical nature and occasional lack of a human touch might make it less appealing to a broader audience.
One of the strengths of the book lies in Bose's meticulous research and insightful analysis. The author delves into the financial intricacies that have contributed to Manchester United's status as the world's richest soccer club. The detailed examination of key financial decisions, sponsorship deals, and the impact of global capitalism on the sport offers a comprehensive understanding of the club's financial landscape.
Additionally, Bose doesn't shy away from addressing the egos and power struggles among key figures within the club. Readers get a glimpse into the boardroom battles and the clashes of personalities that have shaped Manchester United's trajectory. The author's ability to present these narratives in a compelling and engaging manner adds depth to the overall reading experience.
However, the book has its drawbacks. Some readers might find the detailed financial discussions overwhelming and, at times, too technical. The intricate details of sponsorship deals and financial transactions may not resonate with those looking for a more casual or accessible read. Additionally, the narrative occasionally becomes convoluted, making it challenging to follow the chronological order of events.
Furthermore, while Bose provides a comprehensive overview of financial aspects and internal conflicts, the book lacks a deeper exploration of the human side of the story. Readers looking for personal anecdotes or a more intimate portrayal of key figures involved may be left wanting.
In conclusion, "Manchester Unlimited" offers a thorough examination of the economic and power dynamics behind Manchester United, making it a valuable read for those interested in the business side of soccer. However, its technical nature and occasional lack of a human touch might make it less appealing to a broader audience.
December 19, 2012
Exhaustive and, occasionally, exhausting. Probably only for the prawn sandwich style supporter!
Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews