Autobiographies written by stars of the sporting world are always extremely popular with many making it onto the best sellers list. With soccer – or football, as it’s known over the pond – being one of the biggest, most popular and best-followed sports in the world, it’s little surprise to see players get in on the act.
Some famous footballers wait until retirement to publish their story, some prefer to capitalize on the fame and attention, penning a book during their playing days.
11 – Jamie Vardy became the first player to score in 11 consecutive appearances in Premier League history, doing so between August and November 2015. Legs. #OptaPLSeasons pic.twitter.com/fXojULfvot
— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) April 23, 2020
Something for everyone
The tales differ, from the head spin of moving from a kid kicking a ball on street corners to becoming recognized around the world. Some tell of the strive for the top, only to learn its often a dark and lonely place.
As well as autobiographies from players, there are also books published on other aspects of the game, like how to become a coach, secret stories of referees, football betting tactics and plenty more besides.
Below you’ll find a selection of five footballer autobiographies that appeal to both sports fans and those after their next gripping read.
Jamie Vardy: From Nowhere, My Story
Jamie Vardy’s is, perhaps, one of the most famous rags to riches stories in football. The striker went from scoring goals in front of a few hundred fans in the lower reaches of English football to banging them in for England at a capacity Wembley.
He knows football at every level and his story makes for a great read, even if you’re not that into the beautiful game. It’s a tale of drive, sacrifice, and a determination to reach the very top. His focus can be applied to any path in life.
Ian Wright: A Life in Football
Funnily enough, despite being one of the best players of his generation, there is an age group of footie lovers who will know Ian Wright only as the presenter of Match of the Day on Saturday night TV. The Arsenal star released his book in 2016 and is another focussing on his journey through the ranks. It aims to show kids and young fans that football success doesn’t happen overnight. It’s the product of hard work and talent.
Wright’s book doesn’t just focus on his playing career but also touches on the struggles of retirement, making it a rounded and honest read. Few football stories come close to living up to this one. It’s funny, sad, entertaining, and well worth checking out.
Roy Keane: “Some of my hardest games were during the week [against United teammates in training] and not on a Saturday.” #MUFC pic.twitter.com/53otJTI9mA
— MUFC Scoop (@MUFCScoop) April 24, 2020
Roy Keane: The Second Half
This is one of the most talked-about autobiographies of a footballer that has ever been written. The hard-tackling Roy has never ducked a challenge or shied away from the big issues in life, either as a footballer or following his retirement.
You won’t be surprised to learn his book tackles many important issues head-on and hard. Released in 2015, this concentrates more on what he has done after hanging up the boots. After finishing this one you’ll have a different view on the hard-talking, no-nonsense Keane.
So if you’re looking for a nostalgic way to pass some time or perhaps learn a thing or two about this game, these are three excellent starting points.
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