20 best books on soccer fiction – 2023 reading list & recommendations

Are you a die-hard soccer fan looking for your next read? Look no further! We’ve curated a list of the 20 best books about soccer fiction that will transport you to the thrilling world of the beautiful game. Whether you’re in the mood for heart-pounding match descriptions, captivating stories of triumph and tragedy, or insightful explorations of the sport’s impact on society, these soccer fiction books have got you covered. From classics to contemporary gems, this list is a must-have for any book on soccer fiction enthusiast.


The Football Factory

by John King

The Football Factory by John King is a pulse-pounding, adrenaline-fueled journey into the gritty world of football hooliganism. This captivating book on soccer fiction takes readers on a wild ride through the violent underworld of football fandom.

Fever Pitch

by Nick Hornby

Fever Pitch, written by Nick Hornby, is a captivating book about soccer fiction that delves deep into the heart and soul of a die-hard football fanatic. This page-turning memoir takes readers on a thrilling journey through the author’s lifelong obsession with the beautiful game, revealing the profound impact it has had on his life and relationships.

The Damned Utd

by David Peace

Are you ready for a thrilling dive into the world of soccer fiction? Look no further than The Damned Utd by David Peace. This captivating novel takes readers on a rollercoaster ride through the mind of one of the most controversial figures in English football history.

Set in the 1970s, The Damned Utd tells the story of Brian Clough, a charismatic and volatile soccer manager. Clough has just been appointed as the manager of Leeds United, one of the most successful teams in England at the time. However, his tenure at the club is short-lived and filled with chaos and conflict.

Through Peace’s gritty and intense writing style, readers are immersed in Clough’s turbulent journey. The author explores themes of ambition, ego, loyalty, and the dark side of success. As Clough battles his own demons and the pressures of leading a team, readers are captivated by the raw emotions and complex relationships that unfold.

With its vivid portrayal of the soccer world and its unforgettable characters, The Damned Utd is a must-read for any fan of the beautiful game. Whether you’re a die-hard soccer aficionado or simply love a gripping tale of triumph and tragedy, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.

So, if you’re in the mood for a soccer fiction book that combines passion, drama, and a touch of controversy, grab a copy of The Damned Utd and prepare for an unforgettable journey into the heart of the game.

The Miracle of Castel di Sangro

by Joe McGinniss

The Miracle of Castel di Sangro is an extraordinary book on soccer fiction that takes readers on an exhilarating journey into the heart of the beautiful game. With his trademark storytelling prowess, Joe McGinniss crafts a captivating narrative that combines the passion of soccer with the drama of real-life events.

In this mesmerizing book about soccer fiction, McGinniss delves into the remarkable story of a small-town Italian soccer team, Castel di Sangro, as they experience an unexpected and improbable rise through the ranks of professional football. With vivid descriptions and an intimate writing style, the author seamlessly immerses readers into the world of the players, the community, and the game itself.

McGinniss’s soccer fiction book explores the themes of ambition, determination, and the pursuit of dreams, all set against the backdrop of the beautiful Italian countryside. Through his masterful storytelling, the author paints a vivid picture of the challenges faced by the team, both on and off the field, as they strive to overcome obstacles and achieve greatness.

What sets this soccer fiction book apart is its authenticity and the author’s deep understanding of the sport. McGinniss’s meticulous research and extensive interviews with the players and staff of Castel di Sangro ensure that every detail is accurate and every emotion is palpable.

Whether you’re a die-hard soccer fan or simply someone who appreciates a captivating story, The Miracle of Castel di Sangro is a must-read. It will transport you to a world where the power of the human spirit and the magic of the game collide, leaving you inspired and in awe of the miracles that can happen on and off the soccer field.

The Throwback Special

by Chris Bachelder

Welcome to the world of ‘The Throwback Special’! This remarkable novel by Chris Bachelder will transport you into the captivating realm of football literature. This book on soccer fiction will have you hooked from the very first page.

The Game of Their Lives

by Geoffrey Douglas

The Game of Their Lives is an exhilarating journey into the world of soccer fiction. This captivating book takes readers on a thrilling ride through the mesmerizing world of the beautiful game.

Geoffrey Douglas, the talented author behind this soccer fiction masterpiece, weaves together a compelling story that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. With his vivid descriptions and captivating prose, Douglas brings the game to life in a way that is both exhilarating and deeply moving.

Set against the backdrop of a high-stakes soccer tournament, The Game of Their Lives is a riveting tale of passion, determination, and the power of teamwork. As the characters face off against formidable opponents, they must confront their own fears and insecurities, pushing themselves to the limit in order to achieve their dreams.

With its richly developed characters and heart-pounding action, this book about soccer fiction is a must-read for any fan of the sport. Whether you’re a die-hard soccer fanatic or simply love a good story, The Game of Their Lives is sure to captivate and inspire.

The Hope That Kills Us

by Ed Gorman

Are you a fan of the beautiful game? Do you love losing yourself in the drama and excitement of soccer? Then you absolutely cannot miss out on “The Hope That Kills Us” by Ed Gorman, a thrilling and heart-wrenching book about the world of soccer fiction.

This incredible novel takes you on a rollercoaster ride through the highs and lows of the sport, immersing you in a story that will have you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. Gorman masterfully weaves together the passion, rivalry, and sheer determination that make soccer so captivating, creating a narrative that will leave you breathless.

But “The Hope That Kills Us” is not just another soccer fiction book. It goes beyond the sport, delving into the lives of the players, the coaches, and the fans, exploring the personal struggles and triumphs that shape their journey on and off the field. Gorman’s vivid descriptions and compelling characters bring the story to life, making you feel as if you’re right there, experiencing every moment alongside them.

Whether you’re a die-hard soccer fan or simply someone who appreciates a gripping and emotionally charged story, “The Hope That Kills Us” is a must-read. With its thrilling plot, richly developed characters, and a true love for the game, this book is sure to captivate and entertain you from the very first page.

The Club

by Joshua Robinson and Jonathan Clegg

The Club by Joshua Robinson and Jonathan Clegg is a thrilling journey into the heart of the beautiful game. This captivating book on soccer fiction takes readers on a rollercoaster ride through the highs and lows of a legendary football club.

The Ball is Round

by David Goldblatt

The Ball is Round by David Goldblatt is a captivating journey through the rich and vibrant history of the beautiful game. This extraordinary book on soccer fiction takes readers on a rollercoaster ride, exploring the enthralling stories, memorable moments, and legendary figures that have shaped the world’s most popular sport.

The Outsider

by Albert Camus

The Outsider, written by Albert Camus, is a captivating novel about soccer fiction that delves into the existential struggles of its protagonist. Camus, a master storyteller, weaves together a thought-provoking tale that explores themes of alienation, absurdity, and the search for meaning in an indifferent world.

The Football Ramble

by Marcus Speller, Luke Aaron Moore, Pete Donaldson, Jim Campbell

The Football Ramble is a captivating journey into the world of soccer fiction, penned by the brilliant minds of Marcus Speller, Luke Aaron Moore, Pete Donaldson, and Jim Campbell. This enthralling book delves into the realm of the beautiful game, exploring the myriad of stories and narratives that make up the soccer fiction genre.

With their expertise and passion for the sport, the authors take readers on an exhilarating ride through the pages of this soccer fiction masterpiece. Unveiling a treasure trove of tales, they delve into the depths of imagination, bringing to life characters and stories that will leave readers spellbound.

From the adrenaline-fueled matches on the pitch to the dramatic twists and turns off it, The Football Ramble is a celebration of the art of storytelling and the power of soccer fiction. With each turn of the page, readers will be transported into a world where the line between reality and fiction blurs, immersing themselves in the rich tapestry of narratives that make up this genre.

Whether you’re a die-hard soccer fan or simply someone who appreciates the power of a well-crafted story, this book about soccer fiction is a must-read. The authors’ deep knowledge of the game shines through in their writing, making The Football Ramble an engaging and captivating read from start to finish.

So, lace up your boots, grab a seat, and get ready to embark on a literary journey unlike any other. The Football Ramble is the soccer fiction book that will leave you wanting more, long after the final whistle has blown.

The Nowhere Men

by Michael Calvin

The Nowhere Men by Michael Calvin is a captivating book on soccer fiction that takes you deep into the heart of the beautiful game. Set in the world of professional football, this remarkable piece of literature explores the untold stories of the men who tirelessly scour the globe in search of the next superstar.

The Mixer

by Michael Cox

The Mixer by Michael Cox is a captivating journey into the world of football literature. This exhilarating book on soccer fiction takes readers on a rollercoaster ride through the highs and lows of the beautiful game.

The Footballer Who Could Fly

by Duncan Hamilton

The Footballer Who Could Fly is a captivating book on soccer fiction that takes readers on a thrilling journey through the world of football. Written by Duncan Hamilton, this soccer fiction book is a must-read for any fan of the beautiful game.

In this mesmerizing tale, Hamilton weaves together a story filled with passion, dreams, and the power of belief. The protagonist, a young footballer named Jack, possesses a remarkable ability to soar through the air, defying gravity and capturing the imagination of fans worldwide.

As Jack’s talent gains attention, he faces numerous challenges both on and off the pitch. Hamilton skillfully explores the complexities of fame, the pressures of professional sports, and the sacrifices one must make to pursue their dreams. Through his vivid storytelling, readers become fully immersed in Jack’s world, experiencing the thrill of victory and the heartache of defeat alongside him.

Hamilton’s writing style is both poetic and evocative, transporting readers to the stadiums, locker rooms, and training grounds where Jack’s journey unfolds. The author’s deep understanding of the game shines through every page, capturing the essence of soccer and its unique blend of athleticism, strategy, and emotion.

The Footballer Who Could Fly is not just a book about soccer fiction; it is a powerful exploration of the human spirit and the pursuit of greatness. Hamilton’s masterful storytelling will keep readers on the edge of their seats, eagerly turning each page to discover what lies ahead for Jack.

Whether you are a die-hard soccer fan or simply appreciate a well-crafted story, this soccer fiction book is sure to captivate and inspire. Prepare to be swept away by the magic of The Footballer Who Could Fly and embark on a journey that will leave you believing that anything is possible.

The Beautiful Game?: Searching for the Soul of Football

by David Conn

The Beautiful Game?: Searching for the Soul of Football by David Conn is a sensational exploration of the captivating world of soccer fiction. This book immerses readers in the thrilling tales and rich narratives that make up the heart and soul of the beautiful game.

With a keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling, Conn delves into the depths of soccer fiction, unearthing hidden gems and iconic classics that have shaped the genre. Through his vivid descriptions and insightful analysis, he brings to life the exhilarating drama, the intense rivalries, and the profound emotions that define soccer fiction.

From iconic authors like Eduardo Galeano and Nick Hornby to lesser-known writers from around the world, The Beautiful Game? is a comprehensive guide that showcases the diversity and depth of the soccer fiction genre. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a newcomer to the sport, this book will take you on a thrilling journey through the pages of soccer fiction, offering a unique perspective on the game we all love.

So, if you’re seeking a captivating read that combines the excitement of soccer with the power of storytelling, look no further than The Beautiful Game?: Searching for the Soul of Football. Get ready to dive into the world of soccer fiction and uncover the magic that lies within its pages.

The Game of Our Lives

by David Goldblatt

The Game of Our Lives by David Goldblatt is a captivating exploration into the world of football literature. This enthralling book dives deep into the heart of soccer fiction, taking readers on a thrilling journey through the diverse and enchanting stories that have captured the imaginations of fans around the globe.

The Anatomy of England

by Jonathan Wilson

The Anatomy of England, penned by Jonathan Wilson, is a captivating book on soccer fiction that delves deep into the pulsating world of the beautiful game. This remarkable literary masterpiece brings to life an enthralling tale set within the realm of the sport we all know and love. Wilson weaves a narrative that transcends the boundaries of a mere book about soccer fiction, immersing readers in a world where passion, rivalry, and triumph collide.

The Secret Footballer

by Anonymous

The Secret Footballer by Anonymous is a captivating and exhilarating book on soccer fiction that takes readers on an unforgettable journey into the hidden world of professional football. This thrilling tale, written by an anonymous former professional player, pulls back the curtain on the glamorous facade of the sport to reveal the gritty reality behind the scenes.

Unlike any other book about soccer fiction, The Secret Footballer offers a unique perspective from someone who has experienced the highs and lows of the game firsthand. With a writing style that is both compelling and candid, the anonymous author lifts the lid on the secrets, scandals, and struggles that plague the world of professional football.

Through a series of captivating anecdotes and insider revelations, readers are taken on a rollercoaster ride through the murky underbelly of the beautiful game. From the cut-throat politics within clubs to the relentless pressures faced by players both on and off the pitch, this soccer fiction book delves deep into the complexities of the sport.

The Secret Footballer is not just a book about soccer fiction; it is a gripping exposé that shatters the illusions and preconceptions surrounding professional football. With its raw honesty and unflinching portrayal of the industry, this book will undoubtedly leave readers questioning the true nature of the sport they thought they knew.

So, if you’re ready to dive headfirst into a world of secrets, scandals, and sporting drama, then The Secret Footballer is the soccer fiction book that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.

The Glory Game

by Hunter Davies

The Glory Game is a captivating book on soccer fiction that takes readers on an exhilarating journey into the heart of the beautiful game. Written by renowned author Hunter Davies, this compelling tale explores the thrilling world of soccer through the eyes of its players, managers, and fans.

The Boys from Brazil

by Ira Levin

The Boys from Brazil by Ira Levin is an exhilarating thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. This gripping novel combines elements of suspense, mystery, and even a touch of soccer fiction to create a truly captivating reading experience.

Conclusion

After exploring the vast world of soccer fiction, it’s clear that these 20 books are absolute must-reads for any fan of the beautiful game. From thrilling tales of victory on the pitch to heartwarming stories of resilience and teamwork, these books capture the essence of what makes soccer so special. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just starting to discover the magic of the sport, these books about soccer fiction will transport you to the sidelines and into the hearts of the players. So grab a book, find a cozy spot, and get ready to dive into the captivating world of soccer fiction.