Veteran journalists Gregg Evans and Matt Maher masterfully chronicle Aston Villa's remarkable journey from near-financial ruin to European glory in what promises to be one of the most compelling football narratives of 2025. The timing of this book couldn't be more perfect, coming after Villa's historic qualification for the Champions League and remarkable transformation under Unai Emery.
The authors take us on a meticulously detailed journey from Villa's darkest hour in July 2018—when one of English football's most storied clubs teetered on the brink of financial collapse—through to their triumphant return to Europe's elite. The narrative particularly excels in its behind-the-scenes account of the last-minute rescue by billionaire duo Nassef Sawiris and Wes Edens, who brought significant investment and ambition into the club.
What sets this book apart is its unprecedented access to key figures in Villa's transformation. Through exclusive interviews with stars like Jack Grealish and John McGinn, alongside candid conversations with former manager Dean Smith and crucial behind-the-scenes operators like Damian Vidagany, the authors paint a complete picture of the club's revival. The inclusion of dozens of off-the-record conversations adds layers of depth and authenticity to the narrative.
Evans and Maher, with their combined decades of experience covering West Midlands football, bring both journalistic rigour and emotional resonance to the story. Their intimate knowledge of the club shines through in the detailed accounts of Villa's record-breaking home-winning streak and the tactical revolution under Unai Emery.
The book excels in revealing the human stories behind the headlines—from the nail-biting tension of the The book excels in revealing the human stories that lie behind the headlines, ranging from the intense tension of the Championship play-off final defeat to the exhilaration of Premier League promotion and the remarkable journey to European qualification.ama to create a compelling narrative of institutional transformation.
More than just a sports book, "Waking the Giant" serves as a case study in institutional revival, a testament to visionary leadership, and a tribute to one of English football's finest clubs. For Villa fans, it will be required reading, but its appeal extends to anyone interested in finest management, leadership, or the business of football.
"A masterful telling of one of modern football's most remarkable turnaround stories."
Publisher: HarperNorth
Published: May 22, 2025
Price: £20.00
Hardcover: 288 pages
ISBN-10: 000874100X
ISBN-13: 978-0008741006
Dimensions: 159 x 240 mm 
