Some of the fondest memories that I associate with my early sports-loving days are those of waiting for the newest issues of my favourite football magazines with interviews of Pele or Iniesta. Those were the days when excessive social media had not sprung out their personal lives and ideologies onto us and we always were wondering, what were my favourite icons like in real life. These magazines were the only way to know how. I would wait for that issue which would feature the latest stunts pulled by Madrid in the El Classico.
I still remember that fantastic article that Philippe Auclair had written on Alexandre Villaplane. Even if the Internet did not preserve the remains of the bang-on edition of The Blizzard, I would still remember the words clearly “In French, ‘ball’ and ‘bullet’ are the same word: balle. The last baller Alexandre Villaplane had to deal with hit him in the nape of the neck: the coup de grâce, a 7.5mm piece of lead shot at point blank range in the courtyard of the Montrouge fortress on Boxing Day, 1944.” Such has always been the vigour of these sports magazines- the strong points, beliefs, the camaraderie of belonging to a community as vast as this- it was always unparalleled. In this blog, we too will enlist some of the best football magazines that you must get if you are a football fan.
What Can You Find In A Football Magazine?
Football magazines are like a gold mine of information for every football fan since they cover every angle of the sport and more. These magazines provide a comprehensive look at the most watched sport in the world, with captivating stories and insightful insights.
1. In-Depth Match Analysis
Football magazines provide in-depth match analysis by analyzing tactics, individual performances, and crucial moments from games. The lovely game may be better understood by readers via tactical insights and strategic breakdowns.
2. Exclusive Interviews
Readers get a sneak peek into the minds and lives of the people making a difference in football via interviews with players, managers, and other influential characters. These discussions provide fresh viewpoints, stories, and glimpses into how things unravelled.
3. Player Profiles and Features
Football publications often publish in-depth articles on players, discussing their lives, accomplishments, and careers. These elements highlight the players’ humanity, which helps fans connect with them on a deeper level.
4. Transfer News and Rumors
Magazines keep football fans informed of all the latest transfer news, speculations, and rumours, keeping them in the loop about the ever-changing world of football. Giving readers a taste of what’s to come in the sport, this part keeps them enthralled.
5. Historical Retrospectives
Football publications often look back at significant events in the sport’s history, honouring noteworthy matches, players, and achievements. For long-time fans, these retrospectives are a trip down memory lane, and for younger fans, they’re instructional.
6. Tactical Breakdowns and Strategy Insights
Many football fans place a premium on comprehending the complexities of football tactics. The subtleties of various management philosophies and playing styles are often detailed in tactical analyses and strategic insights published in magazines.
7. Fan Contributions and Opinions
Many magazines include spaces for readers to submit their writing, artwork, and tales. Participation from the local community makes the magazine more approachable and fosters a feeling of community among its readers.
8. Lifestyle and Culture
Off the field, football publications delve into the culture and way of life that surrounds the game. The game’s effect extends well beyond the field, as seen in features on football fashion, fan culture, and society’s reaction to the sport.
Fan Favourite Football Magazines Of All Times
1. MATCH!
MATCH! Magazine, a footy fan’s haven since 1979, offers unparalleled coverage of the Premier League, Champions League, EFL, and European football. Bursting with big stars, transfer gossip, FIFA tips, and more, it’s the perfect fix for every young football enthusiast aged 8-12. Beyond the pitch, MATCH! explores social media, fashion, and gaming trends, ensuring a comprehensive and entertaining experience for the next generation of football fans. A must-have for young aficionados seeking a dynamic blend of football excitement and off-field intrigue.
2. Gridiron Magazine
Gridiron, the epitome of American football coverage in the UK, stands as a touchdown for fans. Brimming with exclusive interviews featuring NFL giants like Adrian Peterson and Odell Beckham Jr., it offers unparalleled insights from top analysts. With a stellar team of regular writers and monthly contributions from Jeff Reinebold and Mike Carlson, Gridiron is the ultimate playbook for UK football enthusiasts. While the subscription lacks a gift pack, the magazine’s content makes every issue a winning delivery directly to your doorstep.
3. FourFourTwo
This glossy and stylish publication offers a provocative take on the beautiful game. With compelling feature articles, superb action photography, and exclusive interviews with football stars past and present, every issue is a winning goal. Published by Future Publishing for over 25 years, FourFourTwo lives up to its name, providing consistent and trustworthy content. Don’t miss out on the action; subscribe to FourFourTwo for a monthly dose of football brilliance!
4. World Soccer
World Soccer magazine, the unparalleled authority on global football, is a true institution. Harnessing the insights of top writers from soccer capitals worldwide, it delivers analytical features, stunning images, and up-to-the-minute global results. Beyond scorelines, this publication delves into the heart of triumphs, scandals, and controversies, making it an essential read for anyone passionate about the beautiful game. With its finger on the pulse of domestic and world football, World Soccer remains an indispensable source of authoritative and insightful coverage.
5. The Blizzard
The Blizzard, edited by Jonathan Wilson, is a quarterly football magazine with a unique charm. Named after a Victorian Sunderland newspaper, it embraces an eclectic ethos, offering longer articles of up to 8000 words. Departing from mainstream football media, it delves into obscure facets of football culture and provides fresh perspectives on well-explored topics. Wilson’s editorial vision captures the essence of the sport’s diverse narratives, making The Blizzard a must-read for those seeking a more profound and esoteric footballing experience.
Conclusion
Football Magazines help you stay updated with everything that has been going on in the football world. They feature some of the most exclusive interviews, personal essays, fan articles and so much more. It might just be the way that you are looking to learn more about every news that goes on on the field and off of it. WHSmith also offers a monthly subscription football magazine. Check out the best picks for football magazines by Feedhour on WHSmith and stay updated with the latest trends and news of the game.