A People's History of Football

‘A fascinating journey through the game’s history [as] a vehicle of change’ Shaka Hislop, former footballer, anti-racist educator and broadcaster

‘Correia takes us around the world to examine how football has produced the kind of political energy that can change minds and even topple governments’ Dave Zirin, Sports Editor, The Nation

‘An essential history of [the] fans, players and teams that built the game and harnessed it as a force for good’ Flo Lloyd-Hughes, sportswriter and broadcaster

‘An essential read for football fans everywhere’ Juliet Jacques, writer, filmmaker and journalist

Football is so much more than the billionaire owners and eye-watering signing fees that dominate the headlines. Look beyond the Premiership and the World Cup, the sublime brilliance of Messi and Mbappé, and you’ll find a story unparalleled in the world of sport.

From England, France and Germany to Palestine, South Africa and Brazil, A People’s History of Football reveals how the ‘beautiful game’ has been a powerful instrument of emancipation for workers, feminists, anti-colonialist activists, young people and protesters around the world.

Countering the clichés about football fans, Mickaël Correia dives into football countercultures born after the Second World War, from English hooligans to the ultras who played a central role in the ‘Arab Spring’. And with chapters on anti-fascism, the women’s game, and the rise in community-owned clubs, Correia reminds us that football can be a powerful social and political force – as generous as it is subversive.

Mickaël Correia is a journalist at Mediapart. He is the author of several books. He has written for Le Monde Diplomatique, Le Canard Enchaîné and La Revue du Crieur. His passion for football began when he was 4, with kickabouts on the streets of Roubaix.