Fierce Genius

In 1983, Johan Cruyff was 36 and one of the most famous players in world football. He had just led Ajax to a league and cup double. With his contract expiring, most observers, Cruyff included, expected a fitting farewell season followed by a one-year extension. Instead, Ajax let him go. He joined their fierce rivals Feyenoord and led them to a league and cup double of their own, silencing his critics and delighting supporters well beyond Rotterdam.

This book examines that remarkable season, during which Cruyff began his transition from player to coach. It also looks at his life away from the pitch, including two kidnappings and financial ruin after a con artist defrauded him. Bollen explores the mindset that made Cruyff a commanding figure on the field and later an effective coach, helping readers understand what drove him.

Written in a journalistic style by an author with a background in comedy writing, the book offers an affectionate and informative portrait of one of the sport's great figures.