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Football - Bloody Hell!: The Biography of Alex Ferguson
A warts-and-all assessment of the game's biggest living legend as he approaches retirement, written with unprecedented access to fellow managers, former players, colleagues, and commentators From his combative working class youth in Govan to his role in ushering in the debt-laden Glazer era, Patrick Barclay has spoken to all those who know Alex Ferguson best, revealing him to be a relentless character whose ability to intimidate, control, cajole, and encourage has driven his unparalleled success. Sir Alex Ferguson is without doubt the most controversial and compelling figure in football today, ranking for many as the greatest manager of all time, and certainly the most successful. His reign at Manchester United has seen him win every major footballing honor, and then win them again. It's been more than 10 years since the unforgettable night in Barcelona when Ferguson's embattled players triumphed over Bayern Munich in the dying seconds of the Champions League final. Since then Ferguson has presided over the rise and fall and rise again of José Mourinho, the arrival and departure of the world's best player, Ronaldo, the removal of one English talisman—Beckham—and the irresistible installment of another—Rooney. He has been instrumental in making the Premier League the most successful competition in football, and he has endured while the mountains of cash have turned to valleys of debt. It is only now, as Ferguson nears the end of his career, that conclusions can be drawn about this fascinating man—here is the inside story.
464 pages, Hardcover
First published October 1, 2010
15 people are currently reading
507 people want to read
About the author
Patrick Barclay
18 books7 followersPatrick Barclay was a British journalist and sportswriter.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
December 14, 2011
Sir Alex Ferguson is probably the most controversial managerial figure British Football has known- probably second to Brian Clough. While being one of the most controversial, he has been the most successful and the longest serving manager in the Barclays Premier League. From his Govan up bringing to managing Aberdeen and Manchester United, Football Bloody Hell! explores the life of man who has demanded nothing but best and still continues to do so.
I must be honest, in my thoughtsinanutshell tumblr I had nothing but praise for this book, especially being a fan of Paddy Barclay himself. However as its been sometime since I’ve read it, I’ve had the opportunity to look back and think critically of it. Here are my conclusions:
Before I continue I have to point out this edition had a few mistakes. The back cover says “It’s been over ten years since that unforgettable night in Moscow when Ferguson’s embattles players triumphed over Bayern Munich in the dying seconds of the Champion’s League final. This information is incorrect, the Champion’s League final in 1999 was in Barcelona at the Nou Camp. The 2008 final was in Moscow. There were also several grammatical and spelling errors. I’m not sure if it was just the edition I got, but it would be better if information was corrected.
This is a biography about Sir Alex Ferguson. Many have been written about him, but this one takes the reader back to his Scottish roots. You can see what the Govan upbringing has instilled in Ferguson and likewise some elements have been instilled in past and current crop of Manchester United Players.
In my previous post one of the aspects of the book I praised was it’s short sentence structure. Now as I look back I’m not sure if I particularly like it. As I’ve gone back in the book, it feels like the sentences are too abrupt. There is no coherent relationship between sentences. And sometimes it tended to feel rather anti-climactic.
One of the best aspects of the book that I found was its rich attention to detail. In one of Barclay’s interviews he spoke about the passion of Football in Scotland- it was an interview about this biography and I agree with him. Barclay does manage to capture the passion with vivid imagery, which leaves something to be desired for the imagination. Another aspect of the book that I enjoyed was its rich sense of humor. The most memorable line for me was when Manchester United supporters described their need and want for a manager to win the league. They eloquently went on to say “Lad?! We don’t want a good lad! What we want is a bastard that will win us the league!!.” I suppose they got a bit of both. Ultimately Manchester United’s most prized asset is in fact Sir Alex Ferguson.
This is the first biography I have read about Sir Alex Ferguson, so I don’t have any others to compare this one too. However I would say it is quite a fair one, yet it lacks a sense of magic. It doesn’t capture the reader’s attention in an instant. It has its highs and lows rather hitting a climax and then descending. When you look at the size of the book, you can get freaked out, but it is quite a quick read because of the short sentence structure and because of the short chapter length.
My Rating: 3.5/5
I must be honest, in my thoughtsinanutshell tumblr I had nothing but praise for this book, especially being a fan of Paddy Barclay himself. However as its been sometime since I’ve read it, I’ve had the opportunity to look back and think critically of it. Here are my conclusions:
Before I continue I have to point out this edition had a few mistakes. The back cover says “It’s been over ten years since that unforgettable night in Moscow when Ferguson’s embattles players triumphed over Bayern Munich in the dying seconds of the Champion’s League final. This information is incorrect, the Champion’s League final in 1999 was in Barcelona at the Nou Camp. The 2008 final was in Moscow. There were also several grammatical and spelling errors. I’m not sure if it was just the edition I got, but it would be better if information was corrected.
This is a biography about Sir Alex Ferguson. Many have been written about him, but this one takes the reader back to his Scottish roots. You can see what the Govan upbringing has instilled in Ferguson and likewise some elements have been instilled in past and current crop of Manchester United Players.
In my previous post one of the aspects of the book I praised was it’s short sentence structure. Now as I look back I’m not sure if I particularly like it. As I’ve gone back in the book, it feels like the sentences are too abrupt. There is no coherent relationship between sentences. And sometimes it tended to feel rather anti-climactic.
One of the best aspects of the book that I found was its rich attention to detail. In one of Barclay’s interviews he spoke about the passion of Football in Scotland- it was an interview about this biography and I agree with him. Barclay does manage to capture the passion with vivid imagery, which leaves something to be desired for the imagination. Another aspect of the book that I enjoyed was its rich sense of humor. The most memorable line for me was when Manchester United supporters described their need and want for a manager to win the league. They eloquently went on to say “Lad?! We don’t want a good lad! What we want is a bastard that will win us the league!!.” I suppose they got a bit of both. Ultimately Manchester United’s most prized asset is in fact Sir Alex Ferguson.
This is the first biography I have read about Sir Alex Ferguson, so I don’t have any others to compare this one too. However I would say it is quite a fair one, yet it lacks a sense of magic. It doesn’t capture the reader’s attention in an instant. It has its highs and lows rather hitting a climax and then descending. When you look at the size of the book, you can get freaked out, but it is quite a quick read because of the short sentence structure and because of the short chapter length.
My Rating: 3.5/5
July 6, 2012
Pretty interesting book. Gives a good insight into Sir Alex Ferguson's life. Must read for any Manchester United fan.
November 27, 2018
Another excellent, about one of the best ever managers in the English league, good insight.
October 24, 2018
Chaotic and boring in the same time. You can tell that an author is a huge football fan with big knowledge, but it's not enough to make a good biography. At times a book is very boring in its chronology, going week by week, while every now and then it goes from one anecdote to another getting chaotic. Waste of time.
June 10, 2017
A very well researched book. Alex Ferguson is quite a complex individual and his character and will to win come through in the book. It has increased my understanding of his achievements at Manchester United.
November 1, 2018
This is a fairly straightforward biography of Sir Alex Ferguson. If you're a fan of Manchester United or are interested in Alex Ferguson, then there will be plenty of interest in here. But I didn't find there were any major insights into the man that I hadn't read elsewhere.
January 6, 2020
I am proud to be part of SAF's Army. Always. Always. Always.
Want to read
July 19, 2020elibrary
May 12, 2021
Wonderful . . . captures the contradictions and battery-acid sourness of this complex personality just as eloquently as it elucidates his genius
November 27, 2021
Comprehensive look at the man, deconstructing the myth but recording his triumphs. Good sources, good writing and a decent account.
Read
March 29, 2023Excellent
August 25, 2017
Review at A Bookworm's Musing: HERE
What I liked:
+ A trip down Manchester United memory lane
+ Lots of details, not all of them unknown, but still wonderful to read
+ The photograph panels
What could have been better:
- Could have had a little more emotion in the writing
This has become a book I treasure, not just as a gift but for its content, and I’m certain to peruse often.
What I liked:
+ A trip down Manchester United memory lane
+ Lots of details, not all of them unknown, but still wonderful to read
+ The photograph panels
What could have been better:
- Could have had a little more emotion in the writing
This has become a book I treasure, not just as a gift but for its content, and I’m certain to peruse often.
January 10, 2024
"Football - Bloody Hell!: The Biography of Alex Ferguson" by Patrick Barclay is an engrossing and comprehensive account of the life and career of one of football's most legendary figures. Barclay, a seasoned sports journalist, delivers an insightful and revealing biography that takes readers on a captivating journey through the highs and lows of Sir Alex Ferguson's illustrious career.
One of the book's standout qualities is its meticulous research and attention to detail. Barclay leaves no stone unturned as he delves into the various facets of Ferguson's life, from his upbringing in Scotland to his managerial triumphs and challenges. The narrative is rich with anecdotes, interviews, and behind-the-scenes glimpses, providing readers with a well-rounded and intimate portrait of the man behind the managerial genius.
Barclay's writing is both engaging and authoritative. His prose captures the intensity of Ferguson's character, portraying the manager's relentless drive for success and his unwavering commitment to his players and the game. The book skillfully blends match analyses, personal reflections, and contextual storytelling, creating a narrative that is accessible to both football enthusiasts and those less familiar with the sport.
The biography effectively explores the key moments in Ferguson's career, including his managerial stints at Aberdeen and Manchester United. It sheds light on the strategic brilliance that led to numerous domestic and international successes, as well as the challenges and controversies that marked his journey. Barclay navigates through the intricate relationships Ferguson forged with players, staff, and the football community, offering a nuanced understanding of the man's leadership style.
The inclusion of insights from key figures in football, as well as Ferguson's own reflections, adds depth to the narrative. Barclay skillfully captures the evolution of the football landscape during Ferguson's tenure, highlighting the manager's adaptability and ability to stay relevant in an ever-changing sport.
While the book is predominantly a celebration of Ferguson's achievements, it doesn't shy away from addressing the manager's moments of controversy and confrontation. Barclay presents a balanced portrayal, acknowledging both the triumphs and the challenges that contributed to the complexity of Ferguson's legacy.
In conclusion, "Football - Bloody Hell!" is an absorbing and well-crafted biography that pays tribute to the indomitable spirit of Sir Alex Ferguson. Patrick Barclay's comprehensive research, combined with his engaging storytelling, makes this book a must-read for football fans eager to delve into the life and career of one of the sport's most iconic figures. Whether you're a Manchester United supporter or a football enthusiast, this biography provides a captivating journey through the grit and glory of Sir Alex Ferguson's remarkable legacy.
One of the book's standout qualities is its meticulous research and attention to detail. Barclay leaves no stone unturned as he delves into the various facets of Ferguson's life, from his upbringing in Scotland to his managerial triumphs and challenges. The narrative is rich with anecdotes, interviews, and behind-the-scenes glimpses, providing readers with a well-rounded and intimate portrait of the man behind the managerial genius.
Barclay's writing is both engaging and authoritative. His prose captures the intensity of Ferguson's character, portraying the manager's relentless drive for success and his unwavering commitment to his players and the game. The book skillfully blends match analyses, personal reflections, and contextual storytelling, creating a narrative that is accessible to both football enthusiasts and those less familiar with the sport.
The biography effectively explores the key moments in Ferguson's career, including his managerial stints at Aberdeen and Manchester United. It sheds light on the strategic brilliance that led to numerous domestic and international successes, as well as the challenges and controversies that marked his journey. Barclay navigates through the intricate relationships Ferguson forged with players, staff, and the football community, offering a nuanced understanding of the man's leadership style.
The inclusion of insights from key figures in football, as well as Ferguson's own reflections, adds depth to the narrative. Barclay skillfully captures the evolution of the football landscape during Ferguson's tenure, highlighting the manager's adaptability and ability to stay relevant in an ever-changing sport.
While the book is predominantly a celebration of Ferguson's achievements, it doesn't shy away from addressing the manager's moments of controversy and confrontation. Barclay presents a balanced portrayal, acknowledging both the triumphs and the challenges that contributed to the complexity of Ferguson's legacy.
In conclusion, "Football - Bloody Hell!" is an absorbing and well-crafted biography that pays tribute to the indomitable spirit of Sir Alex Ferguson. Patrick Barclay's comprehensive research, combined with his engaging storytelling, makes this book a must-read for football fans eager to delve into the life and career of one of the sport's most iconic figures. Whether you're a Manchester United supporter or a football enthusiast, this biography provides a captivating journey through the grit and glory of Sir Alex Ferguson's remarkable legacy.
February 22, 2015
The book, Football bloody hell is an biography based on Sir Alex Ferguson, Manchester United manager, and written by Patrick Barclay. Published in 2011, Manchester, UK.
The British sport book of the year, Football - Bloody Hell, is an insight in Sir Alex Ferguson's career with the red devils and the Scotland international team. And Yes, I only do say an insight. The biography has won several notable alumni, however has been a true embarrassment towards Sir Alex Ferguson and the red devils.
The rather overrated book doesn't truly capture the phenomenon of the Manchester Derby, the greatest, most awing and belligerent battle within the football world. Stretching over decades, with brutal battles, the oppression of leadership and glory. Is described as, "it was nothing big...", by Patrick Barclay. Following up this blanketed insight of Sir Alex Ferguson legacy is the rather controversial isolation of Roy Keane, the successor of the red devils, the one who led them to european glory. Is isolated from this biography disabling the insight of the battle between giants, Alex Ferguson and Keane. By a simple biased opinion towards Keane. And to finally re-instate and justify my point. Barclay's least expresses the personal complications of Ferguson. Preventing the reader to experience a roller-coaster of emotions and disabling the perspective of Ferguson the true definition of a biography.
Due to these reasons I would like to respond that the book ,Football - Bloody Hell!, was a disappointment to all. And to conclude, I would like to further recommend books such as:
Alex Ferguson - Author: Ferguson
The official Manchester United Story - Author: David Meck
As these several biographies and auto-biographies truly give an insight towards "Football - Bloody Hell
Gavdog,
The British sport book of the year, Football - Bloody Hell, is an insight in Sir Alex Ferguson's career with the red devils and the Scotland international team. And Yes, I only do say an insight. The biography has won several notable alumni, however has been a true embarrassment towards Sir Alex Ferguson and the red devils.
The rather overrated book doesn't truly capture the phenomenon of the Manchester Derby, the greatest, most awing and belligerent battle within the football world. Stretching over decades, with brutal battles, the oppression of leadership and glory. Is described as, "it was nothing big...", by Patrick Barclay. Following up this blanketed insight of Sir Alex Ferguson legacy is the rather controversial isolation of Roy Keane, the successor of the red devils, the one who led them to european glory. Is isolated from this biography disabling the insight of the battle between giants, Alex Ferguson and Keane. By a simple biased opinion towards Keane. And to finally re-instate and justify my point. Barclay's least expresses the personal complications of Ferguson. Preventing the reader to experience a roller-coaster of emotions and disabling the perspective of Ferguson the true definition of a biography.
Due to these reasons I would like to respond that the book ,Football - Bloody Hell!, was a disappointment to all. And to conclude, I would like to further recommend books such as:
Alex Ferguson - Author: Ferguson
The official Manchester United Story - Author: David Meck
As these several biographies and auto-biographies truly give an insight towards "Football - Bloody Hell
Gavdog,
June 19, 2016
قراءة سير حياة معظم الشخصيات الشهيرة هي في الغالب مملة, خصوصاً وأنه هذه الأيام كل شخص حظي بخمسة دقائق على التلفزيون لا يجد طريقة أسهل لاستغلال لحظة الشهرة تلك من كتابة سيرته الذاتية, والسير الذاتية في غالب الأحيان ليست مصدراً موثوقاً للمعلومات حول الشخصيات البارزة في التاريخ, فيمكن للمرء أن يقرأ السيرة الذاتية لأي دكتاتور أو معاتية وسيخرج منها ظاناً أنه شخص طيب ومعقول.
لكن نحن هنا لا نتحدث عن سيرة ذاتية, ولا نتحدث عن حياة أي شخص, بل عن أنجح مدرب في تاريخ الكرة الإنجليزية.
"كرة القدم, بحق الجحيم!" هو كتاب من تأليف الصحفي باتريك باركلاي حول السير أليكس فيرغسون, مدرب مانشستر يونايتد السابق, الذي عمّر في نادٍ واحد أطول من أي مدرب أخر في التاريخ, مما يجعله شخصية فريدة تستحق أن يقرأ المرء عنها, كما أنه شخصية مثيرة للجدل مما يجعل القراءة عنه من منظور خارجيّ أفضل حتماً من القراءة عنه من منظوره الشخصي, ولو أنه في هذه الحالة المنظوران مكملان لبعضهما البعض.
يتبع هذا الكتاب مسيرة فيرغسون كلاعب في الدوريّ الإسكتلندي وثم تحوله للتدريب, من بداياته الصغيرة في اسكتلندا والدور الذي لعبه في إنهاء إحتكار قطبيّ غلاسغو هناك وكذا إنتصاره الإعجازيّ على ريال مدريد بفريق يدعى أبردين, التي تشكل النصف الاول من الكتاب, ثم انتقاله إلى مانشستر يونايتد وإطاحته بليفربول من على عرش الكرة الإنجليزية, التي شكلت النصف الأخر من الكتاب.
بجانب سيرة السير أليكس الذاتية, هذا كتاب ينصح به لأي شخص مهتم بكرة القدم, حتى ولو لم تكن معجباً بمانشستر يونايتد أو فيرغسون.
لكن نحن هنا لا نتحدث عن سيرة ذاتية, ولا نتحدث عن حياة أي شخص, بل عن أنجح مدرب في تاريخ الكرة الإنجليزية.
"كرة القدم, بحق الجحيم!" هو كتاب من تأليف الصحفي باتريك باركلاي حول السير أليكس فيرغسون, مدرب مانشستر يونايتد السابق, الذي عمّر في نادٍ واحد أطول من أي مدرب أخر في التاريخ, مما يجعله شخصية فريدة تستحق أن يقرأ المرء عنها, كما أنه شخصية مثيرة للجدل مما يجعل القراءة عنه من منظور خارجيّ أفضل حتماً من القراءة عنه من منظوره الشخصي, ولو أنه في هذه الحالة المنظوران مكملان لبعضهما البعض.
يتبع هذا الكتاب مسيرة فيرغسون كلاعب في الدوريّ الإسكتلندي وثم تحوله للتدريب, من بداياته الصغيرة في اسكتلندا والدور الذي لعبه في إنهاء إحتكار قطبيّ غلاسغو هناك وكذا إنتصاره الإعجازيّ على ريال مدريد بفريق يدعى أبردين, التي تشكل النصف الاول من الكتاب, ثم انتقاله إلى مانشستر يونايتد وإطاحته بليفربول من على عرش الكرة الإنجليزية, التي شكلت النصف الأخر من الكتاب.
بجانب سيرة السير أليكس الذاتية, هذا كتاب ينصح به لأي شخص مهتم بكرة القدم, حتى ولو لم تكن معجباً بمانشستر يونايتد أو فيرغسون.
October 10, 2014
Sir Alex Ferguson arguably one of, if not the greatest manager in football that ever lived was born on New Years Eve 1941 in his beloved country of Scotland.
Sir Alex Ferguson didn't have the smoothest ride to the top of the footballing world but big memorable moments such as the Fergie time triumph over Bayern Munich in Munich which was an emotional triumph for Manchester United fans due to the old but never forgetten Munich air disaster on 6 February 1958, the arrival and departure of Cristiano Ronaldo which enhanced Fergusons youth development philosophy and treple winning seasons.
This book was awarded sports book of the year and the writer Patrick Barclay "traces the arc of the Scot's Govan youth to his Old Trafford supremacy with insight, sensitivity and poise."
Sir Alex Ferguson didn't have the smoothest ride to the top of the footballing world but big memorable moments such as the Fergie time triumph over Bayern Munich in Munich which was an emotional triumph for Manchester United fans due to the old but never forgetten Munich air disaster on 6 February 1958, the arrival and departure of Cristiano Ronaldo which enhanced Fergusons youth development philosophy and treple winning seasons.
This book was awarded sports book of the year and the writer Patrick Barclay "traces the arc of the Scot's Govan youth to his Old Trafford supremacy with insight, sensitivity and poise."
June 21, 2011
Barcley has created a great book for every footie fan whether you support man united or not, you follow the life of undoubtebly one of the most controversial and successful managers of all time.
Sir Alex has a hot headed man and this drives him to be succesful, growing up on the docks in glasgow he knew his dreams from young with the help of his friend Jock Stein he fulfilled these dreams with extreme merit.
To learn about a man who has made football as big and as succesful as today is enjoyable in itself but Barclay take us further and really its an outstanding book which every football fan, whether you hate ferguson or love him, should read.
Sir Alex has a hot headed man and this drives him to be succesful, growing up on the docks in glasgow he knew his dreams from young with the help of his friend Jock Stein he fulfilled these dreams with extreme merit.
To learn about a man who has made football as big and as succesful as today is enjoyable in itself but Barclay take us further and really its an outstanding book which every football fan, whether you hate ferguson or love him, should read.
March 2, 2011
Not a Man U fan or a Fergie fan but he definitely is one of the most successful managers ever and this book tells the interesting story of his life. At times I found that I liked him and other times I thought he was a bit too hot-headed which is probably one of the things that drove him to be so successful. All in all a great book for soccer fans!
January 18, 2012
A good book, for anyone who want's to know the life story of Sir Alex Ferguson.
It covers all his career, since he was a footballer till the time he turned into a manager.
It uncovers several good stories that helped me understand how a manager could stay at a top club for 25 years now.
I would recommend it to any football fan.
It covers all his career, since he was a footballer till the time he turned into a manager.
It uncovers several good stories that helped me understand how a manager could stay at a top club for 25 years now.
I would recommend it to any football fan.
October 8, 2011
I decided on buy this book after reading Beckham's story. It is a great description on Ferguson live and personality both negative and positive. Great reading. Next I will read Alex Ferguson own Biography
August 5, 2015
Power and control. That's Sir Alex Ferguson's motto.
My first book about SAF. Some stories I've already knew, but many things don't.
Throughout the book you'll find his works and actions according to that motto above, which is why he is the most successful football manager in Great Britain.
My first book about SAF. Some stories I've already knew, but many things don't.
Throughout the book you'll find his works and actions according to that motto above, which is why he is the most successful football manager in Great Britain.
Read
January 24, 2016It's a rare insight into a mysterious genius by an incredible writer. It has all the gems which have made SIr Alex and his development through varied seasons. Must read for sport fan and psychology students.
September 11, 2016
Miss you, sir.
April 10, 2012
Quite insightful, however the last 50 pages or so seem quite. Overall, an enjoyable read even for other footy fans.
January 28, 2013
Great book about Sir Alex. Even you don't like him, I personally don't, it is still worth to read. Great written! (read in Polish)
February 10, 2013
An unbiased view on arguably one of the greatest football manager ever
April 19, 2013
Not too many Ferguson biographies are out there, but this one provides an excellent look into the career of the Manchester United legend.
August 2, 2014
A terrible bore of a book. It doesn't gets into the depths of Ferguson's success and annoyingly tells too much of unnecessary tales. Waste.
August 6, 2014
An interesting perspective and eye into the life of one of the most prolific managers of all time it was a fun read and engaging and just full of nuggets of information
February 2, 2016
046 - 2016
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews