Carl Anka: The Voice of Football Journalism and Diversity in Sports
Carl Anka is a well-established name in the world of football journalism, known for his insightful reporting and unwavering commitment to diverse representation in the industry. As a key figure at The Athletic, where he covers Manchester United, and as a co-author of books that inspire young people, Anka’s career trajectory is as impressive as it is inspiring. This article delves into Anka’s journey, his work at The Athletic, his collaboration with Marcus Rashford, and his thoughts on diversity within sports journalism.
Who is Carl Anka?
Carl Anka, a London-born journalist and broadcaster, has carved a niche for himself in the world of sports journalism. With a passion for football and an eye for impactful storytelling, Anka’s career spans over a decade. Currently, he is a reporter for The Athletic, a leading sports media platform. In addition to his journalistic work, Anka co-hosts the Talk of the Devils podcast, where he shares his deep knowledge of Manchester United and football culture.
Anka’s influence extends beyond the pitch; he is also a respected voice in pop culture, gaming, and race issues, having contributed to publications such as the BBC, The Guardian, VICE, NME, and BuzzFeed. His career trajectory has allowed him to seamlessly blend his passions for sports, media, and storytelling.
Carl Anka’s Career Journey
Anka’s journey into sports journalism wasn’t immediate. He began his career as a freelance contributor, working for various outlets, including VICE Media and SFX Magazine. His early work featured writing on a range of topics, including race, gaming, and pop culture. Over time, his distinctive voice and insightful perspectives caught the attention of larger publications.
In 2019, Anka joined The Athletic, where he began covering Southampton FC, before transitioning to his current role as the Manchester United reporter. His expertise in football, particularly in covering one of the most iconic clubs in the world, has earned him recognition as one of the leading voices in sports journalism today. His work for The Athletic and his podcast has made him a staple in football media, with a growing fan base that values his commentary and analysis.
The Role of Carl Anka in Promoting Diversity
One of the most compelling aspects of Carl Anka’s career is his advocacy for diversity within sports journalism. Anka has been candid about the challenges he faces as a Black journalist in an industry that has long been dominated by a homogenous group. He openly discusses the need for more representation, particularly in football media, where the racial diversity of players often starkly contrasts with the lack of diversity in media and commentary positions.
Anka has experienced first-hand the disparity between the racial makeup of football players and the journalists who cover them. He recalls walking into press rooms at Old Trafford and being one of the few, if not the only, Black journalist present. This lack of representation, he argues, perpetuates a narrow perspective on the sport, one that fails to capture the full scope of the football community.
Despite the challenges, Anka remains dedicated to his work, and his visibility in the field serves as an inspiration to others. He frequently uses his platform to speak about the importance of inclusion and representation, both in front of the camera and behind the scenes. Anka’s commentary on diversity is not just a reflection of his personal experiences but an advocacy for systemic change within the sports media industry.
Carl Anka’s Collaboration with Marcus Rashford
One of the most notable aspects of Carl Anka’s career is his collaboration with footballer Marcus Rashford. In 2021, Anka co-authored the book You Are a Champion: How to Be the Best You Can Be, a guide aimed at inspiring young people. The book became a major success, reaching bestseller status and earning the title of WHSmith’s Book of the Year.
The collaboration between Anka and Rashford is an extension of their shared mission to empower children, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds. The book provides practical advice and motivational content, encouraging young readers to believe in themselves and pursue their dreams. Anka’s personal experiences in overcoming obstacles, particularly as a Black journalist in a predominantly white industry, resonate strongly with the book’s message.
In 2022, Anka and Rashford released a follow-up book, You Can Do It: How to Find Your Voice and Make a Difference, continuing their work to inspire the next generation. This book further emphasizes the importance of self-expression, resilience, and the power of finding one’s voice in the world.
The Sausage Analogy: Anka’s Unfiltered Take on Journalism
Carl Anka is known for his candidness when discussing the realities of sports journalism. In a recent interview, he used the phrase “how the sausage is made” to describe the less glamorous side of the industry. He explained that while many people are drawn to sports journalism for the excitement of attending football matches and breaking stories, the reality often involves long hours, waiting in cold car parks, and covering lower-tier games.
This unvarnished view of the industry is part of what makes Anka’s reporting so compelling. He is not afraid to share the less-than-ideal aspects of the job, which serves as a reminder that the work of a journalist often involves sacrifices and hard work that goes unseen by the public. For Anka, the job is not just about the glamour of being at a match or the prestige of breaking transfer news. It’s about the dedication to the craft and the commitment to telling stories that matter.
Anka’s Influence Beyond Journalism
While Anka’s primary focus remains football journalism, his influence extends far beyond that. Through his writing and public speaking, Anka has become a role model for aspiring journalists, particularly those from underrepresented communities. He frequently speaks about the challenges of navigating an industry that often doesn’t represent the diversity of the audience it serves. Anka’s success in breaking into this space is a testament to his resilience and his commitment to using his platform for good.
Anka’s advocacy for diversity is not limited to the world of journalism. He also serves as an inspiration for young people who aspire to break barriers in any field. His work with Marcus Rashford, as well as his contributions to publications like VICE and The Guardian, speaks to his broader mission of amplifying underrepresented voices and promoting social change.
The Road Ahead for Carl Anka
As Carl Anka continues to rise in the world of sports journalism, his career is far from over. He remains passionate about the work he does, particularly in giving voice to the stories of marginalized communities. His commitment to diversity, both in the world of football and journalism, sets him apart as a leader in the field.
Anka’s work at The Athletic and his involvement in projects like Talk of the Devils ensure that his influence will continue to grow. His candidness about the industry’s flaws and his determination to inspire others are qualities that will undoubtedly shape his legacy in the years to come.
Conclusion
Carl Anka’s career is a testament to the power of resilience, passion, and advocacy. As a journalist at The Athletic and a co-author with Marcus Rashford, Anka’s work transcends the boundaries of football journalism. His advocacy for diversity and inclusion in sports media, combined with his personal journey, makes him a role model for many. In a world where the representation of Black voices in journalism remains limited, Carl Anka continues to push for change, all while producing some of the most insightful and impactful football journalism in the industry today.
In the coming years, Carl Anka’s voice will likely remain a powerful force in shaping the future of sports journalism, proving that through hard work, passion, and advocacy, one can not only succeed but also inspire others to follow suit.
