Best Football Documentaries Every Fan Should Watch

Football is more than just a sport; it’s a passion, a culture, and a way of life for millions around the world. For any true fan, the excitement of the game doesn’t just stop at the final whistle; it extends to the stories off the pitch. Documentaries about football offer an in-depth look into the lives of players, teams, and moments that have shaped the history of the sport. Whether you’re a casual viewer or a die-hard fan, these films provide valuable insights into the game, the drama, and the dedication that goes into making football the global phenomenon it is today.

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Here are some of the best football documentaries that every fan should watch—each offering unique perspectives on the world’s most popular sport.

1. The Last Dance (2020)

Though primarily focused on basketball, The Last Dance has a significant influence on sports documentaries across all disciplines, including football. This docuseries chronicles the legendary career of Michael Jordan, with a special emphasis on his final season with the Chicago Bulls. Fans of football can draw parallels between Jordan’s story and football icons like Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, whose careers have transcended the sport. The series explores themes of competition, legacy, and what it takes to stay at the top, all of which are central to football’s greatest players.

2. Sunderland ‘Til I Die (2018)

Football fans love the heartwarming and heartbreaking narratives that come with the sport, and Sunderland ‘Til I Die delivers both. This documentary series follows the highs and lows of Sunderland AFC, one of the most storied clubs in English football. The team’s struggle to regain its place in the Premier League is chronicled with raw emotion and an intimate look into the club’s inner workings. The documentary gives fans a glimpse into the intense pressure on managers, players, and supporters alike, providing a unique perspective on life in the lower leagues. This one is a must-watch for anyone interested in the drama that unfolds behind the scenes of English football.

3. All or Nothing: Manchester City (2018)

This documentary series takes fans behind the scenes of one of the Premier League’s most successful clubs: Manchester City. Offering an in-depth look at their 2017–2018 season, the series showcases Pep Guardiola’s tactical brilliance and the club’s relentless drive to dominate English football. From training sessions to locker room conversations, viewers are given a rare opportunity to witness the personal and professional lives of City’s star players, including Sergio Agüero, Kevin De Bruyne, and Raheem Sterling. With unmatched access to the team, All or Nothing: Manchester City provides fans with a deep understanding of the mentality that drives one of football’s most ambitious clubs.

4. The Figo Affair: The Transfer that Changed Football (2022)

Football fans know that certain transfers can change the entire course of a club’s history. One of the most controversial and high-profile moves was Luis Figo’s switch from Barcelona to Real Madrid in 2000. The Figo Affair documentary explores the political and personal drama surrounding the transfer that rocked Spanish football. The film provides insight into the intense rivalry between Barcelona and Real Madrid, as well as the immense pressure faced by Figo, both from fans and within the football world. This documentary is a must-watch for anyone who appreciates the drama and intensity of football transfers.

5. Take Us Home: Leeds United (2019)

Leeds United has one of the most passionate fanbases in English football, and Take Us Home: Leeds United offers a fascinating insight into the club’s journey back to the Premier League after a 16-year absence. This series documents the 2018–2019 season under the guidance of Marcelo Bielsa, the Argentine manager whose unconventional methods and philosophy transformed the team. The documentary captures the raw emotions of the players, coaches, and fans, chronicling their determination to secure promotion. For Leeds fans, this series is a celebration of their club’s resilience, and for anyone who appreciates football’s passionate fan culture, it’s a must-watch.

6. Pelé (2021)

Pelé is considered one of the greatest footballers of all time, and this documentary takes viewers through the extraordinary life and career of the Brazilian legend. Pelé offers an intimate look into the man who won three World Cups, providing insight into his childhood in Brazil, his rise to stardom, and his legacy as an ambassador for the sport. The film explores Pelé’s impact on football in Brazil and globally, including his struggles and triumphs both on and off the pitch. This documentary is a tribute to a player who helped elevate football to its current status as the world’s most popular sport.

7. The English Game (2020)

Set in the late 19th century, The English Game is a historical drama that tells the story of how football became the global sport it is today. The series focuses on the formation of the first professional football leagues in England and the class struggles that arose from the sport’s increasing popularity. Through the stories of key figures like Charles Alcock and Fergus Suter, the documentary delves into the origins of the modern football world. For history buffs and football fans alike, The English Game is a fascinating exploration of how football evolved into the sport we know and love today.

8. The Dawn of Messi (2021)

Lionel Messi’s story is one of the most compelling in the history of football. The Dawn of Messi takes fans on a journey through Messi’s early years in Argentina, his struggles with growth hormone deficiency, and his eventual rise through the ranks at Barcelona. The documentary chronicles Messi’s formative years, offering fans a glimpse into the dedication and perseverance that shaped his legendary career. If you’re a fan of Messi or simply admire the art of football, this documentary provides an insightful look into the making of one of the greatest players to ever play the game.

9. Becoming Champions (2018)

Becoming Champions is a Netflix documentary series that takes viewers through the journey of the top teams competing in the 2018 FIFA World Cup. With footage from the tournament and interviews with players, coaches, and fans, the series provides a comprehensive overview of what it takes to win the World Cup. This documentary offers a unique look at the players who made history, showcasing their trials, sacrifices, and moments of brilliance. For any football fan, the chance to relive the 2018 World Cup through this series is a captivating experience.

10. Inside Borussia Dortmund (2019)

Germany’s Borussia Dortmund is known for its loyal fanbase and high-energy style of play, and Inside Borussia Dortmund gives fans an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the club’s inner workings. The documentary focuses on the 2018–2019 season, capturing the highs and lows of a club on the rise in the Bundesliga. From training sessions to match days, the series offers insight into the club’s relationship with its fans, its players’ mentalities, and the role of club management in navigating the challenges of top-tier football. If you want to see the power of fan culture and team spirit, this documentary is a must-watch.

Conclusion

Football documentaries offer fans a unique chance to experience the sport in a whole new way. From historic tales of footballing legends to the behind-the-scenes drama of modern-day clubs, these films capture the essence of what makes football so thrilling. Whether you’re revisiting iconic moments or learning about the sport’s rich history, these documentaries are sure to deepen your love for the game.

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Nieka Ranises