Jaap Stam book controversy: What did Jaap Stam say?

Following the 2019 book controversy between Jaap Stam and Alex Ferguson, Stam explained that he was surprised to see that what was portrayed by the media was not the same as what was in the book.

Who Is Jaap Stam?

Jaap Stam is a former defensive football player and former coach of FC Cincinnati.

Born on July 17, 1972, in Kampen, Netherlands, Stam made a name for himself as a center-back, earning a reputation as one of the finest defenders of his generation.

His playing career, spanned several European clubs, including stints with FC Zwolle, SC Cambuur, Willem II, PSV Eindhoven, Manchester United, Lazio, Milan, and Ajax.

Throughout his career, he garnered not only club trophies but also individual accolades that underscored his defensive brilliance.

Notably, Stam was voted the best defender in the UEFA Champions League for the 1998–99 and 1999–2000 seasons, a testament to his outstanding performances at the highest level of European competition.

His excellence also earned him a place in three consecutive PFA Team of the Year sides from 1999 to 2001.

Representing the Netherlands on the international stage, Stam played a pivotal role, amassing 67 caps and scoring three goals. He participated in three UEFA European Championships and the 1998 FIFA World Cup.

Upon retiring from his illustrious playing career in October 2007, Stam seamlessly transitioned to coaching at PEC Zwolle and Ajax, where he honed his managerial skills.

Stam made his managerial debut with Reading in 2016, steering the English club with the same dedication and tactical acumen that defined his playing days. Subsequently, he took the helm at Feyenoord in 2019.

Stam further ventured into Major League Soccer, taking charge of FC Cincinnati from 2020 to 2021.