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 Topic 01:12 Early Career and Move to Rapid Vienna 02:32 Transition to English Football 04:49 Joining Middlesbrough and Early Impressions 13:26 The Impact of Janio's Signing 16:51 Cultural Adjustments and Training Challenges 19:07 Middlesbrough's Transformation and Community Connection 30:28 Cultural Insights from Middlesbrough 31:02 Tactical Evolution in English Football 31:45 Adapting to English Football's Physicality 36:23 Weather and Training Challenges 40:25 The Impact of Foreign Signings 50:10 Middlesbrough's Tumultuous Season 59:09 Legacy of Jan Nino and the Premier League Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.