The year 2025 unfolded as a significant chapter in football, as captured through the covers of FourFourTwo. Each issue reflected the highs and lows of the sport, marking a period filled with memorable moments, emerging legends, and stirring controversies. From Manchester United’s struggle for relevance to Liverpool’s triumph and the impact of key players, the magazine’s covers tell a compelling story of a year that was anything but ordinary.
Manchester United’s Difficult Journey
In January, Ruben Amorim, who had recently transitioned from Sporting CP, graced the cover of FourFourTwo. His tenure at Manchester United began under challenging circumstances, with the club finishing a disappointing 15th in the Premier League during the 2024-25 season. Despite their failure to secure a spot in the Champions League after losing in the Europa League final, United opted to retain Amorim as head coach. With substantial investments in player transfers and a full pre-season, the pressure was mounting for a turnaround in fortunes.
Liverpool’s Glory and Heartbreak
February brought a moment of celebration for Liverpool, with the club emerging as Premier League champions under coach Arne Slot. Their title victory was met with jubilant scenes at Anfield, yet the joy was overshadowed by the tragic loss of Diogo Jota and his brother, which cast a long shadow over the city. The 2025-26 season, however, posed challenges for Slot as he struggled to maintain the same form, highlighted by tensions with star player Mohamed Salah prior to the Africa Cup of Nations.
March saw the appointment of Thomas Tuchel as England’s national team manager, tasked with leading the Three Lions into the World Cup. While his initial matches were marked by straightforward victories, Tuchel’s broader goal remained clear: to guide England to unprecedented success on the world stage.
Retirement and New Beginnings
In April, Gary Lineker made headlines as he departed the BBC after 26 years of hosting *Match of the Day*. His exit was complicated by a controversy surrounding a social media post, yet his legacy as one of the UK’s most prominent sports presenters remains intact. With a new podcast venture underway and a lucrative deal with Netflix, Lineker continues to be a significant figure in sports media.
By May, Mohamed Salah was featured alongside Alexander Isak on the cover, showcasing their rivalry as two of the Premier League’s top talents. However, Isak’s controversial move to Liverpool stirred discontent among Newcastle fans and foreshadowed a turbulent season ahead.
Summer Success and European Championships
The summer of 2025 was marked by England’s triumph in the European Championship, led by coach Sarina Wiegman. The Lionesses successfully defended their title, showcasing resilience and skill, with standout performances from players like Michelle Agyemang and Chloe Kelly. This success was contrasted by the challenges faced by the men’s team as they prepared for the upcoming World Cup.
In July, FourFourTwo celebrated the intersection of football and music with a special issue featuring the Gallagher brothers from Oasis. This issue highlighted the cultural ties between football and rock ‘n’ roll, reflecting on past legends and their contributions to the sport.
A New Season and Transfer Dynamics
As the new season began in August, the magazine previewed the upcoming campaign, providing insights into England’s top football divisions. Exclusive interviews with key figures, including former Premier League referee Jeff Winter and Chelsea’s young star Estevao, offered readers a glimpse into the evolving landscape of English football.
September saw the focus shift to Ousmane Dembele, who emerged as a frontrunner for the Ballon d’Or after his pivotal role in leading Paris Saint-Germain to their first Champions League title. His performance positioned him as a strong contender for individual accolades in a year devoid of major international tournaments.
In October, FourFourTwo assessed the major transfers that shaped the Premier League, including Isak’s move to Liverpool. The magazine also explored the financial dynamics at play, examining how clubs navigated the transfer market amid varying budgets.
November brought a surprising twist for Chelsea, who, despite not being favorites, triumphed in the Club World Cup under the guidance of new manager Enzo Maresca. The impact of this tournament on players like Cole Palmer became a topic of discussion as the World Cup loomed on the horizon.
Finally, in December, Paul Gascoigne, the iconic former England midfielder, opened up in an exclusive interview discussing his unique career and personal challenges. As the year concluded, FourFourTwo celebrated the achievements of various clubs and players with its annual awards issue, providing a fitting end to an eventful year in football.
The covers of FourFourTwo in 2025 encapsulated a dynamic and complex narrative of the football world, spotlighting the interplay of success, tragedy, and the ever-evolving nature of the sport. As we look forward to 2026, the anticipation for the World Cup looms large, promising another year filled with excitement and unforgettable stories.
