Great Lives Jock Stein, first British football manager to win the European Cup
Oct 6, 2025
Sir James MacMillan, a celebrated Scottish composer, and Archie MacPherson, a renowned football journalist, dive into the remarkable life of Jock Stein, the first British manager to win the European Cup. They explore Stein's mining roots, his tactical genius, and the emotional highs of Celtic's historic 1967 win. Their discussion touches on the fierce Rangers–Celtic rivalry, Stein’s distinctive managerial style, and his untimely collapse while coaching Scotland. MacMillan also reflects on how Stein's legacy inspired his musical works.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Shared Mining Roots
- James MacMillan grew up in Ayrshire coalfields and connected personally to Jock Stein's background as a miner-turned-manager.
- He links his grandfather's love of music to the same working-class longing for beauty that drove Jock into football.
Recognition Doesn't Follow Achievement
- James notes Jock Stein never received a knighthood despite leading the first British team to win the European Cup.
- This contrast with Matt Busby's later knighthood hints at complex, non-sport factors shaping official recognition.
Lisbon Return And National Joy
- Archie MacPherson and James recall the jubilant reception when Celtic returned to Glasgow with the European Cup.
- James remembers expecting Celtic to lose to Inter Milan, making the victory unexpectedly euphoric for Scotland.
