Three cheers for Alex …
Alex Williams bowed out in style with an unprecedented insight into Manchester City’s treble triumph at the end to the 2022/23 season. He kept a diary of the final month of the season which saw him present the Premier League trophy to Ilkay Gundogan. The crowning glory in a remarkable football journey, captured in his autobiography You Saw Me Standing Alone.
The book also lays bare the heartache and hurt he suffered as a player when taunted by racists before he became the torchbearer for City’s community programme.
Alex wrote his autobiography in collaboration with Andy Buckley, an experienced writer and broadcaster who has covered sporting events in more than 25 countries during a long media career. Andy was the City commentator for BBC Radio Manchester for many years and is now a season ticket holder.
Pep pays tribute to Alex Williams
Pep Guardiola has paid a glowing tribute to Alex Williams as the Club’s former goalkeeper prepares to step down from his ambassadorial role with City in the Community after 33 years.
Pep writes in the book: “When I arrived at Manchester City in 2016, I immediately began learning about the Club’s history. The staff at City helped me by telling me stories of the past, outlining the main figures and moments that were key parts of our long existence, and the legacy of Alex Williams was a huge part of that.
Henry Winter, Chief Football Writer, The Times
‘Poignant and revealing insight from a City legend and pioneer on and off the pitch’
Mike Wedderburn, Sky Sports
‘In the school playground no one wanted to be in goal. I did. I wanted to be Alex Williams. He was brilliant and black and I wanted to be just like him. Alex built the bridge for others to follow. The game should be eternally grateful to him. I know I am.’
Gary Lineker, Match of the Day presenter
‘An amazing life story’
Vincent Kompany, Burnley manager and ex-Manchester City captain
‘A City icon and a trailblazer’
Clive Myrie, BBC journalist and Mastermind presenter
‘A powerful and uplifting story’