Sunday Conversation: Regret, Redemption, Hungary and Football

Sunday Conversation: Puskás and Exile: Sunday 8 November 2026, 10:30–11:30, Valby Bibliotek, Copenhagen. Admission is free.

The conversation centres on an existential and lyrical novel about Hungarian footballer Ferenc Puskás - the answer to Messi in the 1950s and 60s - who left his homeland after the Soviet invasion in 1956 to pursue his talent at Real Madrid. Along the way, the elegant Alfredo di Stefano, the Ronaldo of that era, also appears, helping Puskás grapple with his conscience: Did he betray his country? Did he fail the very idea of football by accepting Madrid's offer? And how does one come to terms with life's great choices?

The event also marks Valby Library's new Sunday opening hours with staff on duty - coffee and refreshments will be served.

Peter Rewers (b. 1977) has written biographies of, among others, Kim Larsen and Michael Strunge, and has himself played professional football in Italy and for B.93 and Fremad Amager - the latter once known for playing home matches at 10:30. Tonny Vorm (b. 1967) has written sports biographies, most recently about Frank Arnesen, contributed to Euroman, and in recent years written genre-conscious novels.

Questions can be directed to librarian Mads Kusk at makusk@kk.dk.