Best Soccer Coaching and Tactics Books
For any soccer player, coach, parent, or fan of the game, one of the best ways to deepen your understanding of the beautiful game is through reading. Whether it’s about the evolution of soccer tactics, insights from legendary coaches, or practical tips on training and leadership, reading the best soccer coaching books provide a wealth of knowledge and inspiration.
Soccer books offer a unique perspective on the strategies, systems, and passion that drive the sport, helping players improve their skills, coaches refine their methods, and fans gain a richer appreciation for the game. With actionable advice and inspiring stories, this collection is essential for anyone looking to master soccer tactics, develop coaching expertise, and lead their team to success.
So, without further ado, let’s go over the best books on coaching and football tactics.
Best Soccer Books to Improve Tactical Understanding of the Game
On and off the field, some of the best insights that you can get about any topic often come from reading, which has always been a gateway to learning and inspiration. If you are looking for a place to find some of the books on this list, check out Fictionme who offer a rich selection of engaging reads.
“Inverting the Pyramid” by Jonathan Wilson
Inverting the Pyramid examines how soccer tactics have changed over time, from the game’s beginnings to the present. Wilson offers a detailed examination of the evolution of various playing philosophies and how they have impacted the growth of the sport.
“The Mixer” by Michael Cox
Many fans tend to think of the Premier League as a tactical battlefield, but few have thought about how the Premier League got to the level it is at today. Much of this is down to the skill of coaches like Arsène Wenger and Pep Guardiola.
In this book, “The Mixer”, Cox helps us follow the changes on the pitch in the English league and the emergence of fierce competition. It is a demonstration of how football has transformed from a beautiful game with a traditional style to a more patient, pass-oriented format, and similar to the previous book, this book covers the history of Premier League tactics.
“Pep Confidential” by Martí Perarnau
In Marti Perarnau’s first book on Pep Guardiola, Pep Confidential, Perarnau provides an inside look at Pep Guardiola’s first campaign leading Bayern Munich. The book offers coaches and players alike helpful insights into Guardiola’s strategies, practices, and leadership style that have turned him into one of the world’s if not the world’s greatest manager.
“Soccer IQ” by Dan Blank
If you’re a coach focused on the practical side of the game, Blank’s book “Soccer IQ” is gold. In soccer all of the small details on and off the field matter and unnoticeable improvements can greatly increase your chances of winning a match.
The simplicity of the presentation is what coaches and players praise this book for. In it, you will find details that often went unnoticed before and will be able to take another step towards professionalism. Instead of abstract theory, you get real solutions to problems that happen a lot in the soccer field.
“Teambuilding” by Rinus Michels
Known as one of the greatest managers in football history, Michels shares his perspective on creating cohesive, high-performing teams. This book focuses on the importance of group dynamics, small-sided games in training, and the art of fostering passion and focus among players. It’s perfect for coaches aiming to build team unity and achieve success on and off the pitch.
“Soccer Systems and Strategies” by Jens Bagsbo and Birger Pietersen
This book explores the intricacies of soccer systems and formations, breaking down how teams can adapt tactics to dominate opponents. From traditional setups to innovative strategies, it’s a great book for anyone who wants to understand the evolution of tactical play and how managers approach the modern game.
“Gold Dust: How to Become a More Effective Coach, Quickly” by David and Keith Mayer
This practical guide emphasizes actionable advice for coaches to elevate their skills and connect with their teams. The authors discuss how simple ideas can transform training sessions and bring better results during matches. A must-read for those looking for insights into modern soccer coaching methods.
“Modern Combination Play” by Phil Roscoe
An interesting and forward-thinking book, this resource provides tactical analysis and training drills to improve passing and combination play. Roscoe discusses how the modern game emphasizes fluidity and creativity, making it invaluable for coaches and players aspiring to excel in small-sided games and other key moments on the pitch.
“The Modern Soccer Coach: A Four Dimensional Approach” by Gary Curneen
As a standout among the best soccer coaching books, this work dives into the tactical, technical, physical, and mental aspects of the game. Curneen provides unique insight into how Premier League managers develop systems that adapt to the highest levels of competition. This book also ties into the “Modern Soccer Coach” podcast, a go-to resource for tactical understanding and strategies.
Summary
To summarize, this list of the best soccer coaching books offers invaluable insights into football tactics, soccer systems, and the evolution of the game. From foundational strategies like small-sided games to advanced concepts such as false nines and Premier League tactics, these books provide actionable advice for coaches, players, fans, and parents seeking a deeper connection with the modern game.
Featuring works like Jonathan Wilson’s Inverting the Pyramid, they deliver a better understanding of the sport’s history, strategies, and artistry. Perfect for aspiring managers or seasoned professionals, these books combine tactical analysis with inspiring stories to elevate your knowledge and appreciation for the beautiful game.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I improve my soccer coaching?
To improve your soccer coaching you have to get as much experience as possible which comes from coaching teams, groups of players, and individuals, as well as by studying the best soccer coaching books and staying updated on the latest football tactics and trends in the modern game.
What is the highest level of coaching in soccer?
The highest level of coaching in soccer is a pro license, which will take years of training, studying, and work to achieve.
What is a soccer coach called?
A soccer coach can often times be referred to as the manager of if you watch football on TV you may have heard the pundits or commentators refer to the coaches as the “gaffer”
What are the best soccer coach gifts?
Some of the best soccer coaching gifts include soccer books, tactic boards, engraved whistles, and many more unique gifts that you can read more about by checking out this post on the best soccer coach gifts.
