Ask any football fan what the last book they read was, Nine times out of Ten, the answer is bound to be some Autobiography of a football icon. Football fans are curious to say the least and they want to know about the stories that rumble on behind the scenes. Also, as football fans we tend to gain an insight into some of the most successful minds in the game. And sometimes, the autobiography is written to trade some blows.
We take a look at the Top 10 most riveting autobiographies every Football fan must read.
1. Alex Ferguson: My Autobiography
Arguably the greatest manager of all time, Sir Alex Ferguson has had quite a decent literary career too. To gain insight into one of the sharpest minds in the world of football, “My Autobiography” is a must read for every Football fan. In the book, Sir Alex takes a deep dive into his style of management and his man management skills which are revered by the footballing world. Also, he looks to settle some old scores too with interesting stories about former players like David Beckham and Roy Keane.
2. Roy Keane: The Second Half
Speaking of settling old scores, Roy Keane’s autobiography “The Second Half”, surely falls into the category. In this book, Keane delves deep into his managerial career and provides a candid outlook on his style of management. Filled with funny anecdotes and interesting stories featuring Robbie Savage as well his exit from Manchester United, “The Second Half” is one of the most engrossing books you will come across.
3. Arsene Wenger: My Life in Red and White
The most successful manager in Arsenal’s history, Arsene Wenger changed the landscape of English Football when he took over the Arsenal job in 1996. The book takes a look at the managerial journey of Arsene Wenger from his early days In France, stint in Japan and his 22 year old love affair with Arsenal. In his autobiography, Arsene Wenger stays true to his principles of professionalism and integrity by not name shaming some former players while explaining what led to his departure from Arsenal in 2018. Every Gunner must surely grab this informative autobiography!
4. Tony Adams: Sober
Nearly 20 years after his first book “Addicted” was published, Adams released his latest book “Sober” which looks back on the 20 years that have passed since. Sober takes a look on the difficulties the former Arsenal captain faced in getting off the booze and his managerial stint. The book is filled with strong opinions Adams has about Arsenal’s struggles in the Premier league as well as England’s dismal showings in major tournaments. An honest book which is inspiring to say the least!
5. Andrea Pirlo: I Think Therefore I Play
One of best deep lying playmakers of his generation, Andrea Pirlo adopts a thought provoking approach for his autobiography “I Think Therefore I Play”. This is an autobiography that is completely different to the usual Footballer’s autobiography. There are anecdotes about his calm state of mind before a World Cup final and how he spent the afternoon playing Playstation. Pirlo’s deep love for the game and his outlook towards the beautiful game is beautifully depicted in his autobiography.
6. Zlatan Ibrahimovic: I am Zlatan
A firecracker of an autobiography, the book needs no introduction, nor does the player himself. Representing some of Europe’s biggest clubs, the book takes a look at Zlatan’s rise from poor Swedish background to one of the best strikers in the game. Also, the readers will surely be entertained by some witty ‘Zlatanesque’ one liners.
7. Dennis Bergkamp: Stillness and Speed
Stillness and Speed gives an insight into the genius mind of Dutch icon Dennis Bergkamp. The book traverses through Bergkamp’s footballing journey, starting out at Ajax, his difficult stint in Italy and his trophy laden decade in North London. In the book, Bergkamp speaks about his philosophy of football as well as the technical aspects of the game. Another must read for every Arsenal fan!
8. Johan Cryuff: My Turn
One of the most influential figures in the history of Dutch football, Johan Cryuff is credited with changing the philosophy of Barcelona, first as a player, then as a successful coach. The autobiography named after his legendary trick, “Cryuff turn”, is an insightful book filled with Johan Cryuff’s vision about football.
9. Gary Neville: Red
A true one club man, Gary Neville was synonymous with the most successful years in Manchester United’s history. In his autobiography, Gary Neville takes the reader through his journey as a youth player and his tight bond with the class of 92. In the latter stages of the autobiography, Neville gives an insight into his injury troubles and his subsequent retirement from the game. Also, the book spills the beans on some of the lesser known secrets of Manchester United.
10. Diego Maradona: El Diego
This book tells the riveting story of Diego Maradona who rose from the streets of Argentina to become the world’s greatest player and who led his country, Argentina, to a world cup title in 1986. It is also a tale of a troubled, misunderstood genius who is remembered for his on-field accomplishments as much as for multiple drug suspensions and controversial behaviour. El Diego is an interesting read about a football superstar who was more than passionate about the game, the city of Naples and his country.
