# FourFourTwo Issue 398: A 30-Point Plan to Fix Modern Football The latest edition explores systemic challenges, legendary careers, and the evolution of broadcasting. - **Source:** [FourFourTwo](https://www.fourfourtwo.com) - **Published:** 2026-11-06 - **Topic:** [sports](https://brifing.si/c/sports) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/ee6ec54e-b4af-465f-872f-2d60ed181c4b ## The State of Football FourFourTwo issue 398 investigates whether modern football is fundamentally broken. The magazine presents a 30-point plan to address growing concerns regarding political interference, financial irregularities, and the impact of VAR on spontaneous fan joy. This editorial deep dive questions the sustainability of the sport's rapid commercial expansion and regulatory challenges. ## Broadcasting Evolution The landscape of televised football has transformed drastically since the 1986 TV blackout. While only 13 English club games were broadcast in the second half of that season, modern fans now access over 267 Premier League matches annually. This shift highlights the massive commercialization that defines the contemporary football viewing experience. ## Calciopoli Scandal Revisited The magazine revisits the 2006 Calciopoli match-fixing scandal that shook Italian football to its core. By examining the corruption at the pinnacle of Serie A, the feature focuses on the central figures involved. This retrospective provides context on how systemic integrity issues have historically impacted the highest levels of European competition. ## Edwin van der Sar's Journey Legendary goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar discusses his illustrious career and his recovery from a brain haemorrhage suffered in 2023. After leaving his executive role at Ajax, he shares personal insights into his health journey. His story serves as a poignant reminder of the human element behind football's global icons. ## Managerial Perspectives The issue offers a rare look at the tactical side of the game, including time spent on the bench with Harrogate boss Simon Weaver. Additionally, former Liverpool manager Graeme Souness participates in a Q&A session, addressing reader questions. These segments provide professional insights into the realities of managing clubs at different levels. ## Collective Team Success Leeds United player Jayden Bogle reflects on the club's rise from the Championship, emphasizing the importance of collective effort. Meanwhile, the magazine profiles FC Midtjylland, a club formed in 1999 that utilizes innovative strategies to challenge for titles. These features highlight different models of growth and success within modern European football. ## Legends and Legacy Terry Butcher and Neil Prentice pay homage to Bobby Robson in their new book, Almost Immortal. The feature includes anecdotes from Three Lions stars regarding their legendary former manager. This tribute captures the cultural impact of past leadership on the current generation of players and the enduring legacy of English football. ## Expert Analysis and Features Beyond the main features, the issue includes contributions from columnist Jules Breach and former player Martin Keown. Readers can also explore the 'Players Lounge' with John Arne Riise and Vivianne Miedema. These diverse perspectives aim to provide a comprehensive overview of the sport's current state and its future trajectory. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.fourfourtwo.com/team/new-issue-30-point-guide-on-how-to-fix-football-edwin-van-der-sar-on-his-glittering-career-on-the-bench-at-harrogate-bobby-robsons-england-on-the-ground-at-fc-midtjylland-plus-graeme-souness-answers-your-questions — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._