Top 9 essential football books to buy in 2024/25

Football is more than just a game of two halves; it's a world enriched with tactics and strategies that can make or break teams on the pitch.

The last two decades have witnessed a significant transformation in the landscape of football tactics books.

This period has seen a shift from simplistic, often anecdotal perspectives to highly analytical, data-driven approaches.

This evolution reflects broader changes in football itself, where tactical innovations and the application of technology and analytics have taken centre stage.

As football has evolved, so to have the resources available to coaches, players, and enthusiasts seeking to understand the beautiful game's complexities.

For fans, players, and coaches alike, understanding the intricacies of football tactics is key to appreciating the beautiful game on a deeper level.

Here, we've compiled a definitive list of the top 9 football tactics books, ranked from essential reading to those that complement your tactical knowledge.

These selections offer insights into the minds of football's greatest thinkers, providing readers with the tools to understand the game's evolving strategies.

9. Soccermatics: Mathematical Adventures in the Beautiful Game by David Sumpter

Blending mathematics with football, Sumpter explores how analytics and numbers influence football tactics and outcomes.

The book, written by David Sumpter is a fascinating exploration into the intersection of football and mathematics.

Sumpter, a professor of applied mathematics, delves into how mathematical principles can be applied to understand and improve football tactics and performance.

The book is structured around various aspects of the game, from the movement of players on the pitch to the statistical analysis of match data.

David Sumpter’s background in mathematics gives him a unique perspective on football.

He uses mathematical models and statistical analysis to reveal insights into the game that are not immediately obvious.

For instance, he explains how mathematical algorithms can predict the outcome of matches, how network theory can analyse team formations, and how geometry influences how teams pass through the opposition's press.

What makes Soccermatics particularly engaging is Sumpter’s ability to make complex mathematical concepts accessible and interesting to a broad audience.

8. Brilliant Orange: The Neurotic Genius of Dutch Football by David Winner

This book explores the cultural and historical influences that have shaped Dutch football's distinctive style and tactics.

“Brilliant Orange: The Neurotic Genius of Dutch Football” by David Winner examines the unique football culture of the Netherlands and its impact on the game’s tactics.

Winner explores how Dutch football’s emphasis on creativity and innovation has produced some of the most influential tactical ideas in the sport.

It provides a fascinating look at how Dutch football philosophy, particularly Total Football, has influenced the tactical development of the game globally.

The book is a fascinating read for those interested in the cultural and tactical aspects of football.

7. How to watch football by Tifo (The Athletic)

Now, I know what you're thinking, why would I buy a book that teaches me how to watch football?

Each page in “How to watch football” is a rule, with rule #1 being “DON'T WATCH THE BALL”.

Yes, that's right, you've been watching football wrong this whole time.

“How to Watch Football” is a must-read for anyone looking to deepen their appreciation of football.

It provides a holistic view of the game, covering everything from on-pitch tactics to off-pitch influences.

Whether you are a casual fan or a seasoned analyst, this book offers valuable insights that will enhance your understanding and enjoyment of football, helping you to appreciate the complexities of football beyond just following the ball.

From picking up on tactical changes, positional play, rest defence, and more.

Produced by the creators of Tifo Football (The Athletic), one of the most popular football analysis channels, this book offers a unique perspective on understanding and enjoying the beautiful game through fifty-two concise and well-explained 'rules'.

6. Das Reboot: How German Soccer Reinvented Itself and Conquered the World by Raphael Honigstein

"Das Reboot" by Raphael Honigstein examines how German football underwent a tactical and structural transformation after the early 2000s, leading to their World Cup triumph in 2014.

Honigstein provides a detailed account of the changes in coaching methods, youth development, and tactical approaches that revitalised German football.

The book is essential for understanding how tactical innovation can lead to success on the international stage.

5. Soccer iQ by Dan Blank

"Soccer iQ: Things That Smart Players Do" by Dan Blank offers practical insights into the mental and tactical side of playing football.

Soccer iQ is a series of books delivered in volumes, with Vol. 1 titled "Things that smart players do".

Blank, an experienced coach, provides tips and strategies to help players make smarter decisions on the pitch.

The book is written in an engaging and accessible style, making it a great resource for players and coaches alike.

4. The Mixer: The Story of Premier League Tactics, from Route One to False Nines by Michael Cox

"The Mixer" by Michael Cox provides a comprehensive history of the Premier League, examining the evolution of tactics over the league's first 25 years.

Cox's insightful analysis covers the strategic innovations brought by various managers and the impact of key players.

The book is praised for its in-depth research and engaging narrative, making it a must-read for anyone interested in how English football has developed tactically.

3. Zonal Marking: From Ajax to Zidane, the Making of Modern Soccer by Michael Cox

Cox takes a broader view in this work, examining how European football has evolved tactically over the last three decades.

"Zonal Marking" by Michael Cox is another excellent book by the author, focusing on how European football has been influenced by different tactical trends.

Cox examines the key tactical shifts across the continent, from the dominance of Italian catenaccio to the rise of Spanish tiki-taka.

The book provides a detailed analysis of how these strategies have impacted the game, making it essential for anyone interested in European football tactics.

It provides a panoramic view of European football's tactical evolution, offering insights into how different cultures and ideas have shaped the game.

2. Football Hackers: The Science and Art of a Data Revolution by Christoph Biermann

"Football Hackers" by Christoph Biermann delves into the world of data analytics in football and how it is revolutionising the tactical aspect of the game.

Biermann explores the work of analysts and data scientists who are using advanced statistics to shape strategies and improve performance.

The book offers an intriguing look at the intersection of technology and football tactics, highlighting how data is becoming an integral part of modern football.

Biermann investigates how data analytics is transforming football, from scouting and player development to in-game tactics.

It's an eye-opening exploration of the data revolution in football, perfect for readers curious about how analytics are shaping the future of the game.

1. Inverting the Pyramid: The History of Football Tactics by Jonathan Wilson

"Inverting the Pyramid" by Jonathan Wilson is a seminal work that explores the evolution of football tactics from the late 19th century to the present day.

This book is a comprehensive exploration of how different playing styles have developed around the world.

Wilson's extensive research and engaging writing style offer a detailed account of how different formations and strategies have shaped the game.

The book is essential for understanding the tactical history of football and how the sport's strategic elements have evolved.

Jonathan Wilson takes readers on a historical journey through the evolution of football tactics, from the game's origins to the modern-day.

It's the ultimate guide for understanding how tactics have shaped football and offers a deep analysis of the game's tactical evolution.

A must-read for anyone looking to grasp the complexities of football tactics.

Over the past 20 years, football tactics books have undergone a profound transformation, mirroring the game's evolution. From anecdotal recounts and historical overviews to data-driven analyses and comprehensive tactical studies, these resources have become invaluable for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of football tactics.

Today, readers have access to a wealth of information that not only explains what happens on the pitch but also provides insights into the why and how, marking a significant leap in the educational resources available to football enthusiasts.

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