Juan Mata: Scoring off the pitch
Football player who rolled up his sleeves for social impact
When football went viral
On this day in 2020, Atalanta Bergamo hosted Valencia in a final-16 Champions League match. It was a superspreading event of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Diego Maradona: The Neapolitan
Migration from shanty town to global fame and struggle.
Hughie Gallacher: No Life after Football
From mining to a goal scoring, but ending in misery and suicide.
George Best: Victim of celebrity?
An electric talent, blessed and cursed with his celebrity.
Marvin Sordell: Facing up to Depression
Retired from football to help others suffering from depression.
Nat Lofthouse: The One-Club man
Though a legendary goalscorer, he never earned more than £20 per week. His story is about identity and education.
Justin Fashanu: Casualty of prejudice?
Justin Fashanu was the first black footballer to be transferred for £1 million and was the first high-level footballer to “come out” as a gay man.
Robert Enke: Casualty of the Beautiful Game?
Robert Enke was a successful goalkeeper who sadly took his own life. His story is one of depression and mental health.
John Blankenstein: Arbiter of LGBT Rights
John Blankenstein was a respected referee, and is remembered for being an activist for LGBT rights. His story is one about social equality and exclusion.
