The Ultimate Reading List for Arsenal Fans | Top Books and Autobiographies

Arsène Wenger: My Life in Red and White

Why It’s a Must-Read:
Arsène Wenger, one of the most visionary managers in football history, offers an intimate and insightful account of his life and career in My Life in Red and White. This autobiography goes beyond tactics and trophies to reveal the man behind the success, sharing his philosophy, challenges, and the journey that made him a legend. From his humble beginnings in Alsace, France, to transforming Arsenal into one of the world’s most admired football clubs, Wenger’s story is both inspiring and thought-provoking.

The book provides a firsthand account of Wenger’s innovative approach to football, including his pioneering use of sports science, his tactical mastery, and his commitment to nurturing young talent. Wenger also reflects on his triumphs, including Arsenal’s historic “Invincible” season, as well as the challenges of managing during the pressures of modern football.

Jens Lehmann: The Madness is On The Pitch

Why It’s a Must-Read:
Jens Lehmann, one of football’s most fascinating and unpredictable goalkeepers, delivers an unfiltered and captivating memoir in The Madness is On The Pitch. Known for his fiery temperament, eccentric personality, and incredible performances between the posts, Lehmann provides a rare glimpse into the mind of a goalkeeper who thrived on the edge. From his pivotal role in Arsenal’s historic “Invincibles” season to his battles with rivals and the pressure of being Germany’s No. 1, this book is as gripping and intense as Lehmann himself.

This is more than just a football memoir—Lehmann shares the mental and physical challenges of goalkeeping, his unique approach to handling pressure, and his perspective on the game’s most unforgettable moments. His honest, often humorous reflections make this a compelling read for Arsenal fans, football enthusiasts, and anyone drawn to stories of resilience and individuality.

BFG: Big Friendly German — Per Mertesacker

Why It’s a Must-Read:
BFG: Big Friendly German by Per Mertesacker offers a heartfelt and unflinchingly honest look at the career of one of Arsenal’s most beloved captains. Known for his towering 6’6″ presence and calm leadership, Mertesacker’s memoir goes far beyond the usual football autobiography, exploring the mental and emotional challenges of life as a professional footballer. From his beginnings in Hanover to lifting the World Cup with Germany in 2014 and his iconic moments at Arsenal, this book is a treasure trove of stories that will resonate with Gooners everywhere.

For Arsenal fans, Mertesacker provides behind-the-scenes insights into his time at the club, sharing anecdotes about his teammates, his relationship with Arsène Wenger, and the team’s memorable FA Cup victories. He also reflects on his leadership as club captain, especially during transitional periods, offering readers a rare perspective on the pressures of representing one of the world’s biggest football clubs.

Always Believe: The Autobiography of Olivier Giroud

Why It’s a Must-Read:
Always Believe is the story of Olivier Giroud’s rise from humble beginnings to footballing greatness. Known for his elegance, physical presence, and knack for scoring stunning goals, Giroud takes readers on a deeply personal journey through his career. For Arsenal fans, this book is particularly special as it highlights his unforgettable moments at the club, including his crucial role in ending Arsenal’s nine-year trophy drought and delivering silverware under Arsène Wenger.

Giroud reflects on the challenges he faced, from being underestimated early in his career to overcoming criticism at every stage, proving his worth with goals and trophies. For Arsenal supporters, his story is a celebration of resilience and loyalty, with a behind-the-scenes look at the camaraderie within the team during his time in North London.

Revolution: The Incredible Story of Mikel Arteta’s Success at Arsenal

Why It’s a Must-Read:
Revolution tells the fascinating and inspiring story of how Mikel Arteta transformed Arsenal from a club in decline into a competitive force once again. Written by Charles Watts, a leading journalist and Arsenal correspondent, this book dives deep into Arteta’s leadership style, tactical innovations, and his ability to inspire change both on and off the pitch. It’s an insightful and compelling look at how one man’s vision is reshaping the identity of a footballing giant.

This book is more than just a story about football; it’s a blueprint for resilience, adaptability, and forward-thinking leadership. From Arteta’s early days as a player in Spain and the Premier League to his mentorship under Pep Guardiola at Manchester City, Revolution explores the journey that prepared him for the monumental task of managing Arsenal. Through exclusive interviews and detailed analysis, Charles Watts brings Arteta’s story to life, offering readers an unprecedented glimpse into his philosophy and the strategies that have revitalized the club.

Theo Walcott: Growing Up Fast

Why It’s a Must-Read:
Growing Up Fast by Theo Walcott is a candid and inspiring memoir that takes readers behind the scenes of one of English football’s brightest talents. Written with honesty and humility, Walcott reflects on his rapid rise to stardom, from being a promising young player at Southampton to becoming England’s youngest-ever World Cup player at just 17 years old. For Arsenal fans, this book offers a treasure trove of memories, detailing Walcott’s time at the club under Arsène Wenger, his key contributions in FA Cup triumphs, and his unforgettable goals against rivals like Chelsea and Tottenham.

This book isn’t just about football—it’s about resilience, handling immense pressure at a young age, and navigating the highs and lows of a life in the spotlight. Whether you’re an Arsenal supporter, a fan of the England national team, or someone who loves stories of perseverance and growth, Growing Up Fast is a compelling and relatable read.

A Life in Football: My Autobiography — Ian Wright

Why It’s a Must-Read:
Ian Wright: A Life in Football is an unfiltered and deeply inspiring autobiography from one of England’s most beloved and charismatic football legends. Ian Wright’s story transcends the sport—it’s about defying the odds, overcoming adversity, and achieving greatness against all expectations. From his challenging upbringing in South London to becoming Arsenal’s second-highest goal scorer and an icon of English football, Wright takes readers on an unforgettable journey of determination, passion, and personal growth.

This book isn’t just for Arsenal fans—it’s for anyone who loves football and stories of resilience. Wright shares powerful and candid reflections on his career, family, and the lessons he learned along the way. Whether it’s his struggles to break into professional football, his record-breaking feats at Crystal Palace and Arsenal, or his journey to becoming a beloved broadcaster, A Life in Football is a must-read for anyone who believes in the power of perseverance and self-belief.

Stillness and Speed: My Story — Dennis Bergkamp

Why It’s a Must-Read:
Stillness and Speed by Dennis Bergkamp is a profound exploration of the art of football through the eyes of one of the game’s most elegant and intelligent players. Renowned for his sublime technique, vision, and creativity, Bergkamp takes readers on a journey through his career, reflecting on the moments, people, and philosophies that shaped his unique playing style. This book isn’t just for Arsenal fans; it’s for anyone who admires the beauty of football and the mind of a player who approached the game with a combination of artistry and precision.

From his formative years in Amsterdam to his transformation into a legend at Arsenal, Bergkamp shares candid stories and insights about his career, including his relationship with Johan Cruyff at Ajax, his challenging stint at Inter Milan, and his golden years in North London under Arsène Wenger. For Arsenal fans, this book offers a treasure trove of memories, from Bergkamp’s unforgettable goals to his pivotal role in the Invincibles season. For football enthusiasts, it’s a rare chance to delve into the mind of one of the sport’s most thoughtful and visionary figures.

Lonely at the Top: A Biography of Thierry Henry — Philippe Auclair

Why It’s a Must-Read:
Lonely at the Top by Philippe Auclair is the definitive account of Thierry Henry, one of the most iconic players in football history. Known for his electrifying pace, clinical finishing, and unmatched creativity, Henry dazzled fans at Arsenal, Barcelona, and with the French national team. Auclair’s biography goes beyond the public persona to reveal the human being behind the superstar—his triumphs, his struggles, and the sacrifices required to reach the top.

This meticulously researched book offers an intimate look at Henry’s relationships with managers like Arsène Wenger and Pep Guardiola, his impact on French and English football, and the complexities of his personality. For Arsenal fans, it’s a celebration of the club’s greatest-ever player, while for all football enthusiasts, it’s a study of the mindset, discipline, and talent that made Henry a legend.

On The Edge: The Autobiography — Martin Keown

Why It’s a Must-Read:
On The Edge by Martin Keown is an unflinching and honest account of one of English football’s most uncompromising defenders. Known for his tenacity, fierce competitiveness, and legendary battles with strikers, Keown pulls back the curtain on his remarkable career, offering a deeply personal insight into life on and off the pitch. This autobiography captures the highs and lows of Keown’s time at Arsenal, his journey with the England national team, and his reflections on the physical and mental challenges of playing at the top level.

For Arsenal fans, this book is a must-read. Keown takes readers into the heart of the famous Arsenal backline, detailing his partnership with Tony Adams, Steve Bould, and Nigel Winterburn under George Graham and Arsène Wenger. Whether it’s his famous clashes with Ruud van Nistelrooy, his role in Arsenal’s double-winning campaigns, or his fierce loyalty to the club, On The Edge is a compelling read for anyone who loves the game’s passion and intensity.

Gunning for Greatness: My Life — Mesut Özil

Why It’s a Must-Read:
Gunning for Greatness is Mesut Özil’s compelling autobiography that offers fans an unprecedented look into the life and career of one of football’s most enigmatic playmakers. Known for his extraordinary vision, creativity, and ability to deliver game-changing assists, Özil reflects on the highs and lows of his journey, from his early days in Germany to his successes with Real Madrid, Arsenal, and the German national team.

Özil provides candid insights into his career-defining moments, his relationships with some of the world’s biggest football personalities, and the challenges of navigating life in the public eye.

Believe: The Autobiography — Oleksandr Zinchenko

Why It’s a Must-Read:
Believe is the powerful and inspirational autobiography of Oleksandr Zinchenko, chronicling his incredible journey from a childhood in Ukraine to becoming a Premier League champion and a symbol of resilience. Known for his versatility, tenacity, and technical brilliance, Zinchenko shares the struggles, sacrifices, and triumphs that have shaped his career and life.

Born in Radomyshl, Ukraine, Zinchenko’s story is one of relentless determination. From being released by Shakhtar Donetsk to rebuilding his career and thriving at Manchester City under Pep Guardiola, he reflects on how he overcame adversity to achieve success at the highest level of football. Moving to Arsenal marked the next chapter in his career, where his leadership and experience have been instrumental in the team’s resurgence as title contenders.

Through candid anecdotes and insights, Believe also highlights Zinchenko’s deep connection to his homeland, his pride in representing Ukraine during difficult times, and his role as an ambassador for hope and resilience.

Addicted — Tony Adams

Why It’s a Must-Read:
Addicted is the groundbreaking autobiography of Tony Adams, one of Arsenal’s greatest-ever captains, and a footballing icon who battled personal demons on and off the pitch. Known for his leadership, resilience, and defensive brilliance, Adams reveals the raw truth about his struggle with alcoholism and the impact it had on his career, relationships, and mental health. This brutally honest account is a tale of redemption and recovery, showing how he overcame his addiction to rebuild his life and become a role model for others.

Unlike typical football memoirs, Addicted dives deep into the human side of the game, exploring themes of vulnerability, resilience, and self-discovery. Adams’ candid reflections provide a powerful message of hope for anyone facing personal challenges, making this book essential reading not just for Arsenal fans, but for anyone who values courage and perseverance in the face of adversity.

Vieira: My Autobiography — Patrick Vieira and Debbie Beckerman

Why It’s a Must-Read:
Vieira: My Autobiography is a gripping account of the life and career of Patrick Vieira, one of the most influential midfielders in football history. Co-written with Debbie Beckerman, this book delves into the mind of the legendary Arsenal captain, offering fans an intimate look at his journey from a childhood in Senegal to becoming a World Cup winner with France and a Premier League icon. Known for his commanding presence, tactical intelligence, and fiery leadership, Vieira reflects on his career highs, his on-pitch battles, and the lessons he learned on and off the field.

For Arsenal fans, Vieira is a treasure trove of behind-the-scenes stories, capturing the golden era of the club under Arsène Wenger. The autobiography also touches on his international success with France, including the 1998 World Cup and Euro 2000 triumphs. Whether you’re a fan of Arsenal, French football, or inspirational stories of leadership and resilience, this book is a must-read.

My Defence: The Autobiography — Ashley Cole

Why It’s a Must-Read:
My Defence by Ashley Cole is a bold, honest, and unapologetic autobiography that offers a rare glimpse into the life and career of one of the greatest left-backs in football history. Known for his defensive mastery, unmatched consistency, and controversial career decisions, Cole takes readers behind the scenes of his journey to the top of the footballing world. From his humble beginnings at Arsenal’s academy to his glittering successes at Chelsea and his storied international career with England, Cole reflects on the challenges, triumphs, and decisions that defined him.

This book not only highlights Cole’s technical brilliance and contributions to some of football’s most iconic teams but also addresses the controversies that marked his career, including his infamous transfer from Arsenal to Chelsea in 2006. Cole offers his candid perspective on this move, shedding light on the motivations behind one of the most talked-about decisions in Premier League history.

Both Sides: My Autobiography — Nicklas Bendtner

Why It’s a Must-Read:
Both Sides by Nicklas Bendtner is an unfiltered, brutally honest, and often humorous account of one of football’s most polarizing and fascinating figures. Known for his confidence, flamboyant personality, and moments of brilliance on the pitch, Bendtner reveals the full story of his career, including the highs of playing for clubs like Arsenal and Juventus and the lows of personal struggles and controversies.

This autobiography goes beyond typical football memoirs, delving into the challenges Bendtner faced both as a player and as a person. He candidly shares behind-the-scenes stories about his time at Arsenal under Arsène Wenger, his struggles with gambling addiction, and the media attention surrounding his “Lord Bendtner” persona. Bendtner reflects on his unpredictable journey, from scoring crucial goals in the Champions League to enduring time in the lower leagues, offering readers a unique insight into the life of a player who lived as much off the pitch as on it.

Arsenal: The Making of a Modern Superclub — Alex Fynn and Kevin Whitcher

Why It’s a Must-Read:
Arsenal: The Making of a Modern Superclub is an in-depth and revealing account of how Arsenal transformed from a traditional English football club into a global sporting powerhouse. Written by Alex Fynn, a renowned sports strategist, and Kevin Whitcher, editor of The Gooner fanzine, the book provides a unique blend of professional insight and passionate fandom. It takes readers behind the scenes of the critical decisions, key figures, and innovative strategies that shaped Arsenal’s journey into the 21st century.

From the arrival of Arsène Wenger in 1996 to the pivotal move from Highbury to the Emirates Stadium, the book delves into the defining moments that modernized Arsenal both on and off the pitch. Wenger’s revolutionary approach to training, diet, and tactics transformed Arsenal’s playing style, while bold boardroom decisions ensured the club could thrive financially in the evolving landscape of modern football.

So Paddy Got Up: An Arsenal Anthology

Why It’s a Must-Read:
So Paddy Got Up is a heartfelt and unique anthology that captures the true essence of being an Arsenal supporter. Unlike traditional club histories or autobiographies, this book is a collection of stories, essays, and memories from fans, writers, bloggers, and players who share an unbreakable bond with the Gunners. The title, inspired by Patrick Vieira’s resilience and leadership during Arsenal’s unforgettable 2001/02 season, reflects the spirit of determination and pride that defines the club.

This anthology brings Arsenal’s history to life, covering everything from iconic moments like the Invincibles season to legendary FA Cup triumphs. It’s a rich tapestry of tales that celebrate the passion, heartbreak, and triumphs of following one of football’s most beloved clubs. So Paddy Got Up isn’t just a book—it’s a tribute to the camaraderie and community that make Arsenal more than just a team. For lifelong Gooners or newer fans eager to learn about the club’s culture and history, this is an essential read.

Arsenal and After: My Story — Paul Davis

Why It’s a Must-Read:
Arsenal and After: My Story by Paul Davis is a deeply reflective and inspiring autobiography from one of Arsenal’s most elegant and influential midfielders. Known for his silky skills, composure, and understated brilliance, Davis played a pivotal role in Arsenal’s success during the 1980s and early 1990s. His story is not just about football but also about resilience, leadership, and overcoming challenges, both personal and professional.

This book captures Davis’ rise through Arsenal’s youth system to becoming a cornerstone of the club’s first team under managers like Terry Neill and George Graham. He provides a firsthand account of Arsenal’s glory years, including the iconic last-minute title win at Anfield in 1989 and the club’s FA Cup triumphs in 1988 and 1993. Davis also addresses the challenges of being a Black footballer during a turbulent period for race relations in England, offering a candid and powerful perspective on his experiences.

Beyond his playing career, Davis explores his journey into coaching and mentoring, highlighting his efforts to inspire and support the next generation of footballers. Arsenal and After is not just a must-read for Arsenal fans but for anyone who values stories of quiet leadership, resilience, and personal growth.