My Turn

My Turn is the autobiography of Johan Cruyff, one of soccer's most influential figures both as a player and manager. The book covers Cruyff's life from his early days in Amsterdam through his revolutionary career with Ajax, Barcelona, and the Dutch national team. Written with journalist Jaap de Groot, the narrative follows Cruyff's journey from street footballer to tactical innovator who transformed modern soccer. The book details his playing philosophy, training methods, and the development of "Total Football" - the style that changed how the game was played. Beyond soccer, My Turn explores Cruyff's relationships with key figures in the sport and provides his perspective on major moments in football history. The narrative includes his experiences managing Barcelona and establishing the youth academy system that would produce many future stars. The book serves as both a historical document of soccer's evolution and a philosophical text about leadership, innovation, and the importance of staying true to one's principles. Through Cruyff's story, readers gain insight into how one individual's vision can reshape an entire sport.

Readers note this autobiography reveals personal details about Cruyff's life, career, and football philosophy, though many wanted more tactical depth and insights into his coaching methods. Liked: - Honest accounts of conflicts with Ajax, Barcelona management - Background on his childhood and early career - Clear explanations of how he developed his playing style - Inside perspective on Dutch football's evolution Disliked: - Lacks in-depth discussion of training methods and tactics - Writing style feels detached and unemotional - Too much focus on business dealings and politics - Several readers said it reads more like a CV than personal memoir Ratings: Goodreads: 3.8/5 (1,200+ ratings) Amazon: 4.3/5 (280+ ratings) Notable review: "Expected more insight into Total Football and his coaching philosophy. Instead got a lot about contractual disputes and boardroom politics." - Goodreads reviewer Another reader noted: "The business side dominates what could have been a more personal story about football innovation."

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🔸 Johan Cruyff dictated this autobiography during his battle with lung cancer, completing it just months before his death in 2016, making it his final testament to the football world. 🔸 The book's title "My Turn" reflects Cruyff's famous football move, the "Cruyff Turn," which he first showcased in the 1974 World Cup against Sweden, instantly becoming one of football's most iconic techniques. 🔸 Co-author Jaap de Groot worked with Cruyff for over 30 years as his personal journalist at Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf, giving him unique insight into the football legend's life and thoughts. 🔸 Throughout the book, Cruyff reveals how his philosophies were heavily influenced by his experiences at Ajax's youth academy, where he learned the "Total Football" concept that would later revolutionize the sport. 🔸 The memoir discusses how Cruyff's innovative ideas transformed FC Barcelona not just as a player and coach, but led to the creation of La Masia youth academy, which produced stars like Lionel Messi, Xavi, and Andrés Iniesta.