The Damned United

In 1974, England's football manager Alf Ramsey faces dismissal after the team's failure to qualify for the World Cup. This pivotal event sets the stage for significant changes in English football management.

Following Ramsey's dismissal, Don Revie is appointed as the new manager of the England national team. Previously at the helm of Leeds United, Revie brings a reputation that is both celebrated and controversial.

Brian Clough, known for his outspoken nature, takes over as manager of Leeds United after Revie. His arrival is marked by controversy, especially his criticism of Leeds's previous aggressive playing style.

In a revealing interview, Clough asserts that the players at Leeds could not have thrived under Revie's harsh management. This statement emphasizes the growing rivalry between Clough and the former manager.

During a tense FA Cup match in 1967, Clough mistakenly believes he shares a bond with Revie. However, the match, held at Derby's Baseball Ground, ends with a 2-0 victory for Leeds, deepening Clough's resentment.

Under Clough’s management, Derby County triumphantly wins the Second Division title in 1969. This victory establishes them as a formidable team, contrasting sharply with their humiliating defeat to Leeds the following season.

The season begins with a highly anticipated Charity Shield match against Liverpool, marking Clough's debut with Leeds. The game descends into chaos when captain Billy Bremner is involved in a brawl, impacting the team's performance.

In 1972, Clough leads Derby County to its first League championship. This victory paves the way for a European Cup campaign, showcasing Clough's growing prominence as a football manager.

Clough's stubbornness in playing his strongest team against Leeds during a European match results in several player injuries. This decision strains his already tenuous relationship with the players and the club's management.

After a health scare with long-time aide Peter Taylor, Clough's frustration culminates in resignation talks. Unbeknownst to him, the board accepts the resignation, leading to an abrupt end to their tenure at Derby.

After their fallout at Derby, Clough and Taylor receive offers to manage Brighton & Hove Albion. This new opportunity comes after a vacation in Majorca, highlighting the complexities of their professional relationship.

In a surprising turn, Clough decides to pursue the managerial position with Leeds while Taylor opts for the stability of Brighton. This decision leads to a bitter separation between the two friends.

Struggles within the team, particularly with player conflicts, prompt the Leeds board to terminate Clough's contract. His abrasive style alienates key players, ultimately undermining his authority.

Clough participates in a televised interview where he confronts Revie, leading to heightened tensions between the two men. Their public feud reveals deep-rooted animosities and conflicting philosophies.

The film concludes with the revelation that Revie’s tenure as England's manager ended in failure, while Clough and Taylor's reunion at Nottingham Forest led to historic success. From wins to European Cups, Clough's career the ‘best manager that the English national side never had’.