Kicking Back

Nedum Onuoha, a Manchester City Academy graduate, was a fierce defender and played a part in City's meteoric rise. He reveals what goes on behind the scenes at top-tier clubs, including insights into household names like Stuart Pearce, Sven-Goeran Eriksson, Roberto Mancini, and Harry Redknapp. He also shares his search for identity as a footballer, a black man in England, and an outsider in the US during the 2020 Black Lives Matter protests.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 384 pages
Publication date: 12 May 2022
Publisher: Biteback Publishing

My identity is intricately woven with conflicts, and I hold immense pride in who I am. With a resolute spirit, I embark on the journey of life, carrying a profound sense of purpose. Nedum Onuoha, a footballer who defied convention, stands as a testament to the indomitable human spirit. Hailing from the vibrant city of Manchester, Onuoha's journey began at the tender age of ten when he was scouted by the prestigious Manchester City Academy. Despite the allure of a career in the spotlight, Onuoha remained steadfast in his commitment to education. His fierce intellect shone not only on the football field but also off it, making him a formidable player. As he honed his skills, Onuoha played a pivotal role in Manchester City's meteoric rise to prominence. He witnessed firsthand the historic moment when the team claimed their first Premier League title, even as an opposition player for QPR, having left the Blues just four months prior.

In this captivating book, Onuoha unveils the unseen world behind the scenes of top-tier clubs. Packed with insightful revelations about renowned figures such as Stuart Pearce, Sven-Goran Eriksson, Roberto Mancini, and Harry Redknapp, this is football, presented in a way you've never experienced before. Kicking Back is also an introspective journey of identity exploration. As a footballer, Onuoha grapples with the complexities of being a black man in England and an outsider in the United States during the 2020 Black Lives Matter protests. He candidly shares the harrowing the experiences of receiving horrific racist abuse while pursuing his passion on the pitch, highlighting the sport's failure to adequately address the concerns of the black community.

In his damning assessment of football's authorities, Onuoha reclaims his voice, offering a profound reflection on a life spent on the pitch. With unwavering honesty and depth, he delves into the intricacies of his journey, providing a captivating account of triumphs, challenges, and the pursuit of equality. Onuoha's story is a testament to the power of resilience, determination, and the unwavering pursuit of one's dreams. It reminds us that our identities are shaped by the conflicts we confront, and it is through these conflicts that we emerge stronger, more resilient, and more proud of who we are.

ISBN-13: 9781785907470