Why the greatest Jewish football players have been forgotten by history
By
David Bolchover
Crackling crust, pillowy middle. The kind of bagel that earns a second cup of coffee.
Summary
An exploration of the forgotten history of Jewish football (soccer) players, prompted by David Bolchover's new book. The article examines why Jewish footballers have been largely erased from the sport's collective memory, despite the existence of notable players, and discusses the impact of the Holocaust and antisemitism on Jewish participation in football. It highlights influential Jewish managers like Bela Guttman who survived the Holocaust, and questions why the greatest Jewish player remains unknown even among knowledgeable fans.
Key quotes
· 3 pulledWho was the best Brazilian player of all time? Pelé comes the answer. Argentina? Maradona or Messi. Hungary? Puskas. Holland? Cruyff. Germany? Beckenbauer. Portugal? Eusébio or Ronaldo – take your pick. France? Zidane? England? Perhaps Bobby Charlton?
What about the best Jewish footballer ever? Gotcha! That's one to send even a group of the most historically literate Jewish football nerds into a prolonged silence.
In his new book, David Bolchover explores the great players who did not
You might also wanna read
The Isolation of Greatness: Examining Tom Brady's Post-Retirement Experience
This article examines the post-retirement experience of elite, hyper-competitive athletes like Tom Brady, exploring the psychological and ex
Defector·23d agoReflecting on the Career of Liverpool Forward Diogo Jota
The article is a tribute to the career of Liverpool forward Diogo Jota, reflecting on his achievements and impact in football.
Robert Lewandowski Refuses to Play for Poland Due to Manager Dispute
Robert Lewandowski, Poland's record goalscorer, refuses to play for the national team under manager Michal Probierz after being replaced as
bbc.com·1y agoManchester United Pays Tribute to Diogo Jota and Andre Silva at Anfield
Manchester United pays tribute to Portuguese footballers Diogo Jota and Andre Silva at Anfield following their tragic deaths in a car crash.
bbc.com·11mo agoTottenham Hotspur Manager Sacking Reveals Shift in Club Values
Ange Postecoglou's sacking at Tottenham highlights a disconnect with the club's traditional focus on glory, as chairman Daniel Levy's priori
bbc.com·1y agoPep Guardiola Expresses Fear Over Israel-Gaza War
Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola expresses fear and concern over the ongoing war in Gaza during an emotional speech where he received an h
bbc.com·1y ago