Best Soccer Books: Top 5 Picks

Last Updated - October 21, 2023

The Popularity of Soccer and Its Impact on Literature

Soccer, also known as football in many countries, is one of the most popular sports in the world. It is played by millions of people from all walks of life and watched by billions more.

Its popularity has transcended cultural and linguistic barriers, making it a truly global phenomenon. As soccer has become more popular, it has also had an impact on literature.

From fiction to non-fiction, there are now countless books about soccer that explore its history, culture, tactics, players and fans. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just a casual observer of the sport, there is likely a book out there that will capture your interest.

Soccer has even inspired poets to write about the game they love. Pablo Neruda’s “Ode to Football” is a classic example of soccer-inspired poetry that explores the beauty and passion of the sport.

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Best Soccer Books - Top 5 Picks

Fever Pitch

Inverting the Pyramid

Soccernomics

The Miracle Of Castel Di Sangro

Das Reboot

Importance of Reading About Soccer for Fans

For soccer fans who want to deepen their knowledge and understanding of the game beyond what they see on television or at matches, reading about soccer can be incredibly valuable. It can provide insights into tactics and strategy that are not immediately apparent when watching games live or on TV. Reading about soccer can also help fans better understand the history and culture behind their favorite clubs and players.

Many books delve into topics like club rivalries, player feuds or controversies surrounding specific events like World Cups or European Championships. But perhaps most importantly, reading about soccer can help fans better appreciate why they love the sport in the first place.

Books like Nick Hornby’s “Fever Pitch” capture not only what it means to be a fan but also how being part of a community united by a shared passion can be so powerful. In short, whether you’re looking to learn more about tactics or simply want to deepen your appreciation for this beautiful game, reading about soccer can be an incredibly rewarding experience.

The Top 5 Soccer Books Every Fan Should Read

“Fever Pitch” by Nick Hornby

One of the most iconic books ever written about being a soccer fan, “Fever Pitch” is an autobiographical account of Nick Hornby’s obsession with Arsenal Football Club. The book charts Hornby’s love affair with the club from childhood through to his adult life, as he struggles to reconcile his passion for the game with the ups and downs of real life. Hornby’s writing is both insightful and humorous, capturing the essence of what it means to be a true fan.

The book explores themes such as identity, loyalty, and camaraderie among supporters. It also highlights how a love for soccer can shape one’s character and worldview.

“Fever Pitch” is a must-read for any soccer fan looking to understand why they feel such a strong connection to their team. The book serves as both an ode to Arsenal and a celebration of what it means to be passionate about something.

“Inverting the Pyramid” by Jonathan Wilson

For fans who are interested in more than just what happens on the pitch, “Inverting the Pyramid” is an absolute must-read. Jonathan Wilson takes readers on a journey through the evolution of tactics in soccer, chronicling how different styles of play have emerged over time.

The book is incredibly detailed and well-researched, providing insight into how coaches and players strategize on the field. Wilson examines everything from formations to specific player roles in order to paint a comprehensive picture of how tactics have changed throughout history.

“Inverting the Pyramid” provides readers with an appreciation for the nuance and complexity that goes into playing at a high level. It also challenges common assumptions about traditional formations and playing styles.

“Soccernomics” by Simon Kuper and Stefan Szymanski

“Soccernomics” takes a unique approach to analyzing the sport, using economics and statistics to uncover hidden truths about soccer. The book covers a wide range of topics, from how club size affects performance to why certain countries are more successful in international tournaments.

Kuper and Szymanski use data to challenge common assumptions about the sport, providing readers with a new perspective on what makes teams successful. The book is both informative and entertaining, packed with interesting anecdotes and stories that bring the data to life.

“Soccernomics” is perfect for fans who want to delve deeper into the strategic side of soccer. It provides a fascinating look at how economics and statistics can be applied to sports analysis.

“The Miracle Of Castel Di Sangro” by Joe McGinniss

“The Miracle Of Castel Di Sangro” is an incredible true story about an Italian team that rose from obscurity to compete at a high level. Joe McGinniss tells the story of Castel di Sangro Calcio, a small team from a tiny town in Italy that managed to make it all the way up to Serie B.

The book captures the essence of what it means to be passionate about soccer, highlighting the dedication required for players and coaches alike. It also provides insight into what goes on behind-the-scenes at smaller clubs that are trying desperately to succeed.

“The Miracle Of Castel Di Sangro” is an inspiring read for any fan who has ever rooted for an underdog. It shows what can happen when hard work meets opportunity, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds.

“Das Reboot: How German Soccer Reinvented Itself and Conquered The World” by Raphael Honigstein

Raphael Honigstein’s “Das Reboot” tells the story of how German soccer reinvented itself after years of mediocrity on the international stage. The book explores the changes made to the country’s soccer infrastructure and the new tactics that were implemented in order to create a winning culture.

Honigstein’s writing is both informative and engaging, drawing readers into the world of German soccer during a time of great change. The book also provides insight into how other countries can learn from Germany’s success.

“Das Reboot” is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding what it takes to create a world-class soccer team. It shows how innovation and hard work can turn around even the most troubled organizations.

Conclusion

These six books offer something for every type of soccer fan, from those who appreciate detailed tactical analysis to those who just love an inspiring underdog story. By reading these books, fans can gain a deeper appreciation for what makes soccer such an incredible sport. Whether you’re cheering on your favorite club or just marveling at the skill of the players on the pitch, there’s no denying that soccer has an almost magical quality about it.

These books capture that magic in different ways, providing readers with a glimpse into what makes this sport so special. So whether you’re looking for inspiration, insight, or just some good old-fashioned entertainment, these six books are sure to satisfy even the most die-hard fans.