The relationship between the game Americans identify as soccer and the world knows as football is complex. While it struggles to gain popularity and acceptance in the United States, there are indications of rising interest through both player participation and fan attendance. The U.S. Women’s National Team has received a tremendous amount of support due in large part to an incredible run of victories and championships. Recent years have found major networks broadcasting the Premier League, showcasing English teams and star players. This summer, ESPN aired Euro 2020, which was won by Italy over England in a game decided by penalty kicks. It set a record as the most watched European Football Championship match ever in the U.S.

While American sports teams have their own dynasties and loyal fans, a strong argument can be made that the FC Barcelona soccer club from Spain’s Catalonia region is the most famous sports franchise in the world. I had the pleasure of visiting their stadium, Camp Nou, several years ago. I walked through their museum and saw for myself the rich history of the team, their legendary coaches and managers, and their greatest player, Lionel Messi.

"THE BARCELONA COMPLEX is a wonderful book about sports and team building. Even if you think that soccer is a boring game, you will enjoy this exhaustive and detailed sports classic."

Simon Kuper was granted access to FC Barcelona’s staff and offices, and has provided a deep study of the organization. But even this examination finds itself behind the curve of sweeping events. It was published within days of Messi leaving the team after 21 years because of their complicated financial situation.

Readers should not be dissuaded from the book because they think it is only for soccer fans. Kuper is an accomplished writer who places the sport in a world context, and the insights presented here have application far beyond soccer. Whether you enjoy sports or are interested in how winning organizations achieve their success, you will find a treasure trove of fascinating material in THE BARCELONA COMPLEX.

In many ways, the Argentinian-born Messi represents the uniqueness of the world of soccer. He came to Barcelona at age 13 and made his professional debut at 17. There he was recognized as the greatest player in the world, winning individual awards and leading his team to championships in the Spanish LaLiga and UEFA Champions League. He also found time to play for Argentina in world events and led his country to the Olympic gold medal in 2008. Among the highest paid athletes in the world, Messi is known for his philanthropic endeavors. He has established a personal foundation and actively works with UNICEF in support of their worldwide activities.

FC Barcelona is a unique organization in part because of its structure, as the citizens of Barcelona are the team’s true owners. Their motto is “More than a club,” which means that they are part of the political and social structure of the autonomous Catalonian community. Barcelona has gone from a regional club to a world powerhouse with sustained excellence and innovative strategies both on and off the field.

Kuper traces Barcelona’s success to its Dutch coach, Johan Cruyff, who employed an attacking strategy, known as “total football,” when others relied on far more conservative tactics. They also didn’t believe in stereotyping athletes based on their physical appearance, which allowed them to recruit and develop the undersized Messi.

THE BARCELONA COMPLEX is a wonderful book about sports and team building. Even if you think that soccer is a boring game, you will enjoy this exhaustive and detailed sports classic.