Io Sono Il Calciatore Misterioso (2012) - Plot & Excerpts
I'm a big football fan, so when I didn't get tickets for a major tournament taking place in my country, I decided to work there as a volunteer and see it from the backstage. The fan's curiosity is natural in any sport, so books like this one is a 100% hit to get attention.Would I recommend it to other fans? Not really. It has some interesting parts, but more often that not it's more about the footballer than about the game. The spread of anonymity cuts the revelations in half, leaving them interesting but without the actual blow. Having read The Secret Footballer's column on the Guardian website, I was chuffed to get this book and the sequel for Christmas.Sadly, there seemed to be very little difference in terms of the stories included and the revelations they hold.That said, it is still an interesting read with plenty of behind-the-dressing-room-door stories of how top-flight footballers behave.Of course, this is an insight into one footballer's life and the highs and deep lows he encounters.As good and as well put as the stories are, you get the feeling you've been here before with most other football biographies. The Secret Footballer's unique selling point is that he is still playing the game, whereas most others who put pen to paper have retired.But the anonymity he brings and the names covered up to avoid exposing his identity or getting the lawyers called in every five minutes nullify that aspect of it.Despite it's USP, this is just football biography with some interesting tales. Worth a read, but not as good as it could have been.
What do You think about Io Sono Il Calciatore Misterioso (2012)?
Ye, was pretty interesting. The secret footballer seems like a dick though
—troncatt
A bit trashy but some interesting insights into the dark side of football.
—ara103
Interesting book! A one day read. Plenty left for a 2nd part.
—Violet
If you've not already read all the articles, it's great.
—peggy
