podcast

Imre Hirschl: The Hungarian Trailblazer of South American Football | Part One

11.11.2025
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Welcome to It Was What It Was, the football history podcast. Co-hosts Jonathan Wilson and Rob Draper deep dive into the extraordinary story of Imre Hirschl, the Hungarian who took South American football by storm. In this first part of a two-part series we hear the story of Hirschl's early life, his emigration to South America, and his unexpected rise to coaching fame in Argentina. From starting as a salami salesman to becoming the mastermind behind Gimnasia y Esgrima La Plata's success, Hirschl's tale is one of perseverance, innovation, and tactical genius. Tune in to discover the myths, challenges, and triumphs of this unlikely football legend who redefined the game during the early 20th century.


 The Unlikely Beginnings of a Coaching Legend

 The Hungarian Influence on South American Football

 Unraveling the Myths and Realities

 A Journey Through War and Immigration

 The Butcher Turned Football Visionary

 The Mystery of Hirschl's Football Career

 Meeting Béla Guttmann and the Next Chapter

 Hirschl's Coaching Journey Begins

 Tactical Innovations and Success

 Challenges and Triumphs in Argentina

Early Coaching Stint in Brazil

 Struggles and Determination

Hirschl's Coaching Philosophy

 Building a Winning Team

 Conclusion and Future Prospects


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