Football transfers can be dramatic, but one transfer, in particular, left a lasting impression on the football world. Picture this: it’s 1978, Manchester City yearns for greatness, and along comes Kazimierz Deyna, a football wizard fresh from the World Cup. With skills that could make the ball dance and a reputation that preceded him, Deyna was a force to be reckoned with. But it wasn’t just his talent that had people talking; it was the jaw-dropping payment method that set this transfer apart. Forget bags of cash or cheques. Manchester City decided to get creative and paid the first instalment of Deyna’s transfer fee with photocopiers. Yes, you read that right – the foundations of success all boiled down to Manchester City and photocopiers!
Deyna, a lieutenant in the Polish army, played for the army club Legia Warsaw, for whom he had scored almost 200 goals in nearly 500 games, so City had to enter into a series of complex negotiations with the Polish FA, the Polish government and the Polish army. There was no problem with the translations, however, because City already had one Pole at the club: George Bergier was the head of match-day catering.
The Polish army had to agree to demobilise Deyna, and the Polish FA delayed transferring his registration forms until a train arrived bearing photocopying machines and medical instruments, which were part of the “transfer fee”. The deal cost City around £100,000, comprising machinery, tools and some cash in US dollars, which the Poles used to send their athletes abroad to prepare for the 1980 Moscow Olympics.
Let’s take a closer look at the extraordinary tale of Deyna’s transfer to Manchester City and the ripples it sent through the footballing world. It’s a story that combines talent, triumph, and the sheer audacity of thinking outside the box. So, lace up our boots and embark on this remarkable journey!
Deyna’s Time at Manchester City
Kazimierz Deyna’s arrival at Manchester City was nothing short of a spectacle. Fans were eager to witness the magic he had showcased on the international stage, and he did not disappoint. With his mesmerising skills and creative playmaking, Deyna quickly became a fan favourite.
In 1979, Deyna played a pivotal role in Manchester City’s triumph in the League Cup. His ability to dictate the flow of the game and unlock defences with his precise passes was a sight to behold. The fans were treated to moments of sheer brilliance as Deyna weaved through opposing players, leaving them in his wake.
But it wasn’t just his on-field contributions that endeared him to the City faithful. Deyna’s infectious personality and warm presence off the pitch made him a beloved figure in the dressing room and among the supporters. He embraced the club and its fans, forging a deep connection that went beyond the game itself.
During his time at Manchester City, Deyna showcased the true artistry of football. His ability to see passes that others couldn’t and his natural elegance on the ball elevated the team’s play to new heights. He brought a touch of flair and finesse that was previously unseen, inspiring his teammates to strive for greatness.
Unfortunately, Deyna’s time at Manchester City was relatively short-lived. After just two seasons, he made the decision to venture across the Atlantic, leaving behind a legacy that would be remembered for years to come. His departure was met with a tinge of sadness from the City faithful, who had grown accustomed to witnessing his footballing genius.
The impact of Kazimierz Deyna’s time at Manchester City extends far beyond the trophies won, and the goals scored. His influence on the team’s style of play and his ability to capture the hearts of the fans left an indelible mark on the club’s history. Even after his departure, Deyna’s spirit continued to inspire the players who followed in his footsteps, reminding them of the true essence of the beautiful game.
Deyna’s Departure and Legacy
Just as quickly as he arrived, Kazimierz Deyna bid farewell to Manchester City and embarked on a new chapter in his footballing journey. In 1981, he made the decision to leave the shores of England and head to the United States, joining the San Diego Sockers.
Although his departure left a void in the hearts of City fans, Deyna’s legacy continued to resonate. Tragically, his life was cut short in 1989 when he was involved in a fatal car accident at the age of 41. The footballing world mourned the loss of a true icon, a player who had brought joy and excitement to the game.
Deyna’s impact went far beyond his time at Manchester City. His transfer to the English club marked a turning point in the history of foreign players in English football. He was among the pioneers who shattered barriers, demonstrating that talent knows no borders. His success and reputation paved the way for future international stars to make their mark in the English game.
The legacy of Kazimierz Deyna lives on, not only in the memories of those who witnessed his incredible skill and artistry on the pitch but also in the continued internationalisation of English football. His transfer served as a catalyst for change, challenging the traditional norms and opening doors for a diverse array of talent to flourish in the English game.
His journey serves as a reminder that the influence of a single player can transcend the boundaries of the sport, leaving an everlasting legacy that extends far beyond the pitch.
Influence on English Football
Kazimierz Deyna’s arrival at Manchester City as one of the first foreign players in a major English club marked a significant shift in the landscape of English football. His transfer had a profound impact on the perception and recruitment of foreign talent, forever changing the game.
Deyna’s exceptional skill set and creative style of play challenged the traditional English approach to football. He brought a new dimension to the game, showcasing the importance of technical ability, vision, and flair. His presence on the pitch forced English players and clubs to adapt and evolve, embracing a more diverse and expansive style of play.
The success and impact of Deyna’s transfer paved the way for the influx of international stars in English football. As other clubs witnessed the transformative effect of foreign players, the barriers that once hindered their recruitment began to crumble. The floodgates opened, and an era of global talent emerged, enriching the English game with a melting pot of different playing styles and cultural influences. And more English players were transformed into continental leagues too.
Here’s a selection:
- Ossie Ardiles (Argentina) – Ardiles joined Tottenham Hotspur in 1978, just a year after Deyna’s transfer. He brought his elegant style of play and helped Spurs win the FA Cup in 1981.
- Ruud Gullit (Netherlands) – Gullit arrived at Chelsea in 1985, adding flair and versatility to the team. His impact was significant, playing a key role in Chelsea’s promotion to the First Division in 1989.
- Marco van Basten (Netherlands) – Van Basten signed for AC Milan in 1987 but suffered a career-ending injury in 1988. However, his brief time in the English league with Milan showcased his incredible talent and set the stage for his legendary status in world football.
- Gianluca Vialli (Italy) – Vialli joined Sampdoria in 1984 and then moved to Chelsea in 1996. As a player-manager, he made a significant impact at Chelsea, leading the club to FA Cup and League Cup triumphs.
- Gary Lineker (England) – Though not a foreign player, Lineker’s move to Barcelona in 1986 highlighted the growing trend of English players seeking opportunities abroad. His successful spell in Spain paved the way for other English talents to explore playing outside of their home country.
- Who did we miss?
Deyna’s transfer also had a profound psychological impact on English football. It challenged the notion of insularity and opened the eyes of both players and fans to the immense talent that existed beyond their own shores. It sparked curiosity and excitement, with supporters eagerly following the journeys of international players and welcoming them into their clubs with open arms.
The legacy of Deyna’s transfer can still be seen today. English football has become a global melting pot, attracting players from all corners of the world. The Premier League, in particular, stands as a testament to the lasting influence of Deyna’s arrival. It has become a showcase of talent from diverse backgrounds, showcasing the beautiful game in all its multicultural glory.
All this from Photocopiers?
It was the unorthodox payment method of photocopiers that became the catalyst for the transformative changes sparked by Kazimierz Deyna’s transfer to Manchester City. What began as a whimsical solution to a financial challenge became a symbol of the audacity and innovation that would redefine English football.
Those photocopiers, seemingly insignificant in the grand scheme of things, represented a turning point that opened the floodgates for a wave of foreign talent and revolutionised the game. They symbolised the breaking down of barriers and the birth of a new era, where diversity, creativity, and skill from players around the world would forever change the landscape of English football.
Would Man City’s treble dream have even been possible if Kazimierz Deyna’s transfer hadn’t happened? We’ll never know for sure.
But we will forever remember Kazimierz for his exceptional abilities and remarkable legacy.
It’s amazing what you can do with photocopiers!
References:
https://www.mancity.com/news/club-news/club-news/2019/city-dna/city-dna-7-paid-for-in-photocopiers