Visionary football manager William Shankly (1913–1981) was born in the hardworking mining village of Glenbuck, Scotland. With a head full of dreams and a love of films, boxing, and fitness, he forged a philosophy that blended graft and joy.

“Some people think football is a matter of life and death,” he quipped. “I can assure them it is much more serious than that.”

When Shankly joined Second‑Division Liverpool in 1959—an event supporters call the “December earthquake”—he set about rebuilding the club from the ground up. By 1974 the Reds were English football’s pre‑eminent force, winning three First‑Division titles (1964, 1966, 1973), two FA Cups (1965, 1974), and the 1973 UEFA Cup.

He championed modern training, relentless fitness, and a "holy trinity" of manager, players, and supporters working as one. Beloved for his gravelly voice and razor wit, he insisted, “If you are first you are first. If you are second you are nothing.”

After retiring, Shankly reflected: “I was only in the game for the love of football—‑and I wanted to bring back happiness to the people of Liverpool.” His legacy of passion, discipline, and daring endures on the Kop and far beyond.