Inshallah United: A Story of Faith and Football

Inshallah United is a memoir about the first British-born son of a Pakistani family living in England's second city, focusing on his upbringing as a Muslim, Manchester United supporter, Morrissey lover, Maggie hater, and working-class Mancunian in the late 80s and 90s.

Format: Hardback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 16 March 2023
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers

Longlisted for the William Hill Sports Book of the Year Awards 2023, Nooruddean Choudry was born in 1979, a year marked by significant historical events. Margaret Thatcher became Prime Minister, Sid Vicious died of a heroin overdose, Ayatollah Khomeini overthrew the last Shah of Iran, and Tim Martin opened his first Wetherspoons. Additionally, a local football club lost the Cup Final to Arsenal, courtesy of a man named Sunderland. This club would become an all-consuming obsession for young Nooruddean, who would later become a small brown man and, importantly, also a Red.

Inshallah United is the story of the first British-born son of a Pakistani family living in England's second city. The significance of geography is evident, as Nooruddean's identity would have been profoundly different if his parents had settled elsewhere. As it was, he grew up as a Muslim, supporting Manchester United, loving Morrissey, hating Maggie, and being a working-class Mancunian.

This book delves into the experiences of growing up as a strictly halal Stretford Ender, a devout Muslim, and a diehard Red. It chronicles the prayers and hopes for United to sign Alan Shearer and reclaim their dominance over the Scousers. It is a deeply personal account of life as a Muslim Asian Mancunian kid in the late 80s and 90s, marked by the most successful period in Manchester United's history.

Nooruddean's journey is a testament to the resilience and determination of immigrants and their children. His story reflects the complexities and challenges of navigating multiple identities, cultural norms, and societal expectations. It sheds light on the experiences of Muslim communities in Britain and the impact of football on their lives.

Inshallah United is a captivating and heartfelt memoir that will resonate with readers of all backgrounds. It is a testament to the power of sport, community, and family to shape one's identity and aspirations. Whether you are a football fan or not, this book offers a unique perspective on the human experience and the importance of embracing our differences.

Weight: 426g
Dimension: 143 x 225 x 31 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780008522230