The Little Magician: Juninho’s Boro Days with Jan Åge Fjørtoft

Welcome to It Was What It Was, the football history podcast. Hosts Jonathan Wilson and Rob Draper are joined by guest Jan Åge Fjørtoft to explore the groundbreaking transfer of Brazilian footabller Juninho to Middlesbrough in 1995. The discussion explores the players’ previous career highlights, the unique challenges they faced adjusting to English football, and the cultural impact of Juninho's arrival on the Premier League. Special focus is given to the transformational role this transfer played in attracting world-class talent to mid-level English clubs.Jan gives insightful stories and personal anecdotes surrounding how Juninho became a beloved figure at Middlesbrough and his lasting legacy in English football history.00:00 Introduction and Today's Topic01:12 Early Career and Move to Rapid Vienna02:32 Transition to English Football04:49 Joining Middlesbrough and Early Impressions13:26 The Impact of Janio's Signing16:51 Cultural Adjustments and Training Challenges19:07 Middlesbrough's Transformation and Community Connection30:28 Cultural Insights from Middlesbrough31:02 Tactical Evolution in English Football31:45 Adapting to English Football's Physicality36:23 Weather and Training Challenges40:25 The Impact of Foreign Signings50:10 Middlesbrough's Tumultuous Season59:09 Legacy of Jan Nino and the Premier League Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.