Alan Ball Jr. biography, football player, soccer, died, net worth

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<h2>Early Life and Background</h2>
<p><a href="/biography/alan-ball-jr">Alan James Ball</a> was born on May 12, 1945, in Farnworth, Lancashire, England. He spent his formative years in England and was the son of former professional <a href="/biography/alan-ball-jr">footballer</a> <a href="/biography/alan-ball-jr">Alan Ball Sr.</a>, from whom he likely inherited his passion for the sport. Alan completed his education at Farnworth Grammar School. He was married to Valerie Beech, and the couple had a close and lasting relationship.</p>

<h2>Early Club Career and Breakthrough</h2>
<p>Alan Ball began his football journey at a young age, initially playing for Ashton United, a team then managed by his father. He briefly joined <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wolverhampton_Wanderers_F.C.">Wolverhampton Wanderers</a> before signing with Blackpool in 1961, shortly after finishing school. Ball made his professional debut for Blackpool in 1962, making an immediate impact during his first match against Liverpool.</p>

<h2>Rise to Prominence: Everton and Arsenal</h2>
<p>In 1966, Ball transferred to Everton, where he enjoyed considerable success. He played a key role in the club's 1970 Football League Championship victory. The following year, in 1971, he joined Arsenal and was appointed team captain in 1974. Ball remained with Arsenal until 1976 before moving to Southampton, continuing to display leadership and technical skill on the field.</p>

<h2>International Career and World Cup Glory</h2>
<p>Ball made his debut with the England national team in 1965. The highlight of his international career came in 1966 when he was selected to represent England at the FIFA World Cup. At just 21, he was the youngest member of the squad that went on to win the tournament, defeating West Germany in the final. Known for his tireless energy and precise passing, Ball earned 72 caps for England. His international career came to an end when he was omitted from the national team selection in 1975, at the age of 30.</p>

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<h2>Later Playing Career and Transition to Management</h2>
<p>In 1978, Ball moved to the United States to play in the North American Soccer League. He joined the Philadelphia Fury and later played for Vancouver Whitecaps in 1979. Returning to England in 1980, he rejoined Blackpool as a player-manager. However, his management stint at Blackpool was short-lived, ending in 1981 after an underwhelming season. Ball officially retired from playing in 1984.</p>

<h2>Managerial Career: Portsmouth, Southampton, and Manchester City</h2>
<p>Ball resumed his managerial career in 1984 by taking charge of Portsmouth. Despite some promising moments, the club's overall performance led to his dismissal in 1989. He later served as an assistant manager at Colchester United before becoming the manager of Stoke City, though he did not find significant success with the team.</p>

<p>Continuing his managerial journey, Ball led clubs such as Exeter City and Southampton before being appointed manager of Manchester City in 1995. His tenure at City was marked by challenges and eventually ended in relegation. In 1998, he returned to manage Portsmouth for a second time.</p>

<h2>Legacy and Death</h2>
<p>Alan Ball passed away on April 25, 2007, from a heart attack at the age of 61. A World Cup winner and passionate footballer, he remains a celebrated figure in English football history. His dedication to both club and country, along with his contributions as a manager, solidified his legacy as one of the sport’s enduring personalities. His net worth remains undisclosed.</p>

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