Some folks love transfer rumors. Despite no factual support, hearing that X player may signed for Y team opens the ears, perks the tail, and sends hearts aflutter. Historical analysis has a similar flaw: the solidly factual from the sloppily factual. In my book, I promise to stay away from hearsay and unfounded rumors.

Here's an example. Barca legend Ladislao Kubala had a famous drinking problem. However, a rumor percolates that when he boarded a train to go and sign for Barcelona, he confusedly and drunkenly thought he was heading for Madrid. This is based on what a former Barcelona President says he heard from Barcelona's scout at the time: Josep Samitier. Thus, it's a shade of hearsay.

More importantly, several facts point to the reality: Kubala knew he was heading to Barcelona. First, he'd already rejected an offer from Real Madrid. Second, he got on a train with Barcelona's scout, Josep Samitier. Third, at the negotiations with Barcelona, he pulled out his contract offered from Madrid.

Several similar stories float about the history of Real Madrid & Barcelona. I think they're cute and quaint, but not worthy of serious consideration. I will rely on narrative to add power to my history book, not the equivalent of transfer rumors from yesteryear.