Soccer players, fans, (or whatever your affiliation to footy is)—it’s time to switch the play for some R&R. We know you can’t keep off the pitch, or the next big game, so we’re here to give you the soccer you love, but in documentary form. We've lined up 9 must-watch soccer documentaries that offer unique insights into the drama, passion, and magic that make football the world's favorite sport and the one you live for. 

1) Diego Maradona

The Guardian

What's it about: Directed by Asif Kapadia, 'Diego Maradona'  chronicles the life of Argentine soccer legend, detailing his rise from a Buenos Aires slum to becoming a global footy icon. It highlights his dazzling talent on the pitch and the challenges he faced, including personal struggles with addiction and fame.

Key Takeaways & Lessons 

• The dual nature of fame and the pressures it brings.
• The importance of recognizing the personal battles behind public success in sports. 
• A cautionary tale regarding the potential pitfalls of celebrity culture.

Available on: HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video

2) All or Nothing: Manchester City

Sports Management Hub

What's it about: A behind-the-scenes look at Manchester City's 2017-18 season, ‘All or Nothing’ highlights the triumphs and tribulations of the team as they captured a Premier League title. It dives into Pep Guardiola's coaching style and the team’s dynamics. 

Key Takeaways & Lessons

• Insights into the intense pressure of competing at the highest level.
• The importance of teamwork and strategies employed by Guardiola.
• A look at the mental and physical demands of a professional football season.

Available on: Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV

3) Becoming Champions

Netflix

What's it about: 'Becoming Champions' follows the journeys of the eight countries that have won the FIFA World Cup. It highlights their greatest stars and personal stories, offering insights into what made these squads successes at the most elite stages.

Key Takeaways & Lessons 

• A look at the rich histories and unique journeys of the World Cup-winning nations.
• A greater understanding of the pride and determination that comes with being a champion in soccer.

Available on: Netflix

4) That Peter Crouch Film

Mail Plus

What's it about: That Peter Crouch Film is the true story behind football's most unlikely hero. Ridiculed for his height and “shunted from club to club”, all evidence had suggested that he should not have had a successful career. The film explores the “long, arduous journey to reach the top - filled with twists, stumbling blocks, self-doubt”, but most importantly, his unbridled passion.

Key Takeaways & Lessons

• The importance of perseverance, resilience in the face of criticism.
• The idea that success can come from unlikely beginnings. 
• Crouch's journey highlights self-belief and the ability to overcome personal challenges.

Available on: Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV

5) Make Us Dream

IMDb

What's it about: 'Make Us Dream' follows the career of Steven Gerrard, focusing on his loyalty to Liverpool FC during a time when the club’s success was declining. It details his journey filled with highs and lows, including significant moments like the 2005 Istanbul final.

Key Takeaways & Lessons: 

• The pressures athletes face, the burden of expectations from fans and themselves.
• The complexities of loyalty in professional sports.

Available on: Amazon Prime Video

6) Sir Alex Ferguson: Never Give In

Ventureland

What's it about: A revealing and deeply personal documentary about the life of Sir Alex Ferguson, from his working-class roots in Glasgow through to his career as one of the greatest football managers of all time. While recovering from a traumatic brain haemorrhage in 2018, Sir Alex recounts vivid details of his life and career to his son, including his legendary 26-year tenure as manager of Manchester United.

Key Takeaways & Lessons 

• The importance of hard work, the power of teamwork, and the ability to overcome setbacks. 
• How resilience can drive success in sports and life.

Available on: Paramount+, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV

7) Take the Ball, Pass the Ball

IMDb

What's it about: ‘Take the Ball, Pass the Ball’ explores the philosophy and tactics of Pep Guardiola during his time as manager of FC Barcelona from 2008 to 2012. It features interviews with key players from that era, including Lionel Messi, Xavi, and Andrés Iniesta, providing insights into one of the most successful periods in the club's history.

Key Takeaways & Lessons

• Provides a deep understanding of Guardiola's revolutionary "tiki-taka" style of play.
• Highlights the importance of team chemistry.
• Teaches how a cohesive philosophy can transform a team's performance.

Available on: Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV

8) Neymar: The Perfect Chaos

Netflix

What's it about: This 2022 Netflix docuseries chronicles the life and career of Brazilian soccer star Neymar. Directed by David Charles Rodrigues, the three-episode series explores Neymar's rise to stardom, his experiences at clubs like Santos FC, FC Barcelona, and Paris Saint-Germain, as well as the controversies and criticisms he has faced throughout his career.

Key Takeaways & Lessons

• Provides insights into the pressures of being a global soccer superstar.
• Explores the importance of family support in an athlete's career, and the challenges of maintaining a public image. 
• Highlights the transition from poverty to fame and the complexities of managing a personal brand in professional sports.

Available on: Netflix

9) The Final: Attack on Wembly

The Saturday Paper

What's it about: The Final: Attack on Wembley is a documentary that chronicles the chaos on July 11, 2021, when approximately 6,000 ticketless football fans stormed Wembley Stadium during the Euro 2020 final. The film explores the mayhem that ensued, showcasing the actions of fans as they attempted to force their way into the stadium, leaving destruction in their wake.

Key Takeaways & Lessons: 

• Offers insights into the negative aspects of fan culture.
• Serves as a reminder of the consequences of unruly behavior among sports fans.

Available on: Netflix

Plug & Play

These soccer documentaries offer more than just a glimpse into the world of soccer; they provide a panoramic view of the sport's impact on individuals, communities, and nations. Whether you're looking to relive historic moments or simply enjoy some great storytelling, these documentaries deliver on all fronts. So grab your remote, settle in, and prepare to see the beautiful game unlike your usual viewing experience.