Best Soccer Coaching Books of 2026

Soccer IQ: Things That Smart Players Do, Vol. 1 is a book that focuses on helping soccer players improve their decision-making skills on the field. Written by Dan Blank, a coach with over two decades of experience, the book offers simple solutions to common mistakes players make, from hunting rebounds to playing in the rain. The book is an easy read and provides practical advice that can help players solve their soccer problems. It also includes a bonus chapter on the college recruiting process. Soccer IQ is a must-read for players looking to take their game to the next level.

"The Soccer Coach's Toolkit" by Rob Ellis is an invaluable resource for soccer coaches, featuring over 250 engaging activities designed to enhance players' skills and enjoyment. With activities tailored for all skill levels, this book offers clear descriptions and diagrams, making it easy for coaches to implement sessions that cater to varying abilities. Ellis, a seasoned UEFA B License coach with two decades of experience, brings practical knowledge from his work with Chelsea FC Foundation. This toolkit stands out for its adaptability and comprehensive nature, making it a must-have for coaches looking to inspire and challenge their players effectively.

The Mixer: The Story of Premier League Tactics, from Route One to False Nines is an essential read for any modern football fan. It explores how the Premier League has evolved over the past 25 years, from a physical and bruising game to a more finesse-based approach. The book highlights how tactics have changed, thanks to foreign influences and seismic rule changes, and looks at the strategies employed by some of the most successful managers of the past quarter-century. The Mixer is a compelling examination of the evolution of tactics in the Premier League, and a must-read for any football enthusiast.

Every Moment Matters is a must-read book for coaches at any level who are looking to improve their leadership skills and build high-performing teams. Author John O'Sullivan has compiled insights from top coaches, sport scientists, psychologists, and athletes to create a blueprint for success. The book emphasizes the importance of being intentional in every moment, from designing practices to inspiring players. Whether you're coaching a youth team or competing for an NCAA championship, this book provides practical tools and strategies to become the coach your athletes need. Overall, it's an inspiring and insightful read that will help coaches bring out the best in their teams.

"Pep Guardiola - 85 Passing, Rondos, Possession Games & Technical Circuits Direct from Pep's Training Sessions (Volume 2)" offers a comprehensive look into the innovative training methods employed by one of football's greatest coaches. This book features 85 detailed practices, covering everything from warm-ups to complex small-sided games, all drawn from Guardiola’s sessions at elite clubs like Manchester City, Bayern Munich, and FC Barcelona. The unique blend of speed, agility, and technical training makes this book an invaluable resource for coaches aiming to elevate their team's performance. Overall, it stands out for its direct connection to high-level coaching practices, providing practical insights that can be immediately applied on the field.

In "Coaching Positional Play," Pasquale Casà Basile, a UEFA Pro Licence coach, delves into the intricacies of "Expansive Football," focusing on tactical development and team management. The book provides comprehensive insights into the Spanish game model, including 34 tactical situations and 47 practical exercises that emphasize teamwork, competitiveness, and effective attacking strategies. Overall, this book stands out for its detailed methodology and practical applications, making it a valuable resource for coaches seeking to enhance their teams' performance through well-structured training practices.

Coaching Soccer For Dummies by the National Alliance For Youth Sports is an excellent guide for anyone looking to start coaching youth soccer. The book is packed with tips and drills for practice and game days, and it explains the rules of soccer in an easy-to-understand way. It also covers topics such as developing a coaching philosophy, teaching soccer fundamentals, and communicating effectively with parents. This book is a must-have for anyone who wants to improve their coaching skills and help their team succeed.

The book "Soccer Coaching: A Step-by-Step Guide on How to Lead Your Players, Manage Parents, and Select the Best Formation" is a valuable resource for soccer coaches who want to improve their coaching skills. It provides practical advice on teaching techniques, managing difficult players and parents, and building a strong bond with the team. The book focuses on the most important aspects of coaching, giving coaches the confidence to lead their team effectively. While it doesn't cover every aspect of coaching, it provides valuable insights and guidance. Overall, this book is a must-read for coaches looking to enhance their coaching abilities and create a positive and successful team.

"Essential Practices for Player Development" by Carl Wild is a comprehensive guide for soccer coaches, offering 10 core practice sessions designed to engage players while fostering essential skills. Each session is paired with 9 adaptations, resulting in a total of 100 unique practices that target key areas of the game. Wild's extensive experience in both professional and grassroots soccer adds credibility to his insights. This book stands out for its practical approach, making it a valuable resource for coaches seeking to enhance player development through enjoyable and effective training sessions.

"Soccer Drills for Kids Ages 8-12: From Tots to Top Soccer Players: Outrageously Fun, Creative and Challenging Soccer Drills for Kids Ages 8-12" is a comprehensive guide that provides a season-long training program for young soccer players. Written by Chest Dugger, this book covers all the key skills needed to excel in soccer, including passing, shooting, dribbling, and defending. It also addresses mental health and well-being, offering tips on working with neuro-diverse children. With a focus on practical fitness and tactical understanding, this book is an invaluable resource for coaches and parents looking to help their young players develop and enjoy the game. Overall, "Soccer Drills for Kids Ages 8-12" stands out for its comprehensive approach and its emphasis on fun, creativity, and challenge."