From the pristine pitches of Europe to the passionate stadiums of South America, Rodolphe Gaudin's masterful storytelling brings the beautiful game's finest talents to life. His two decades of pitch-side experience shine through as he weaves together the tales of football's most extraordinary performers. In the opening chapters, Gaudin's intimate knowledge of the sport reveals itself through his detailed analysis of Erling Haaland's meteoric rise. A veteran journalist recounts the Norwegian striker's journey from Bryne FK to Manchester City with unparalleled detail. Gaudin's first-hand observations of Haaland's transformation from a promising youngster to the Premier League's most feared forward offer readers unprecedented insight into the makings of a modern football phenomenon. The author's coverage of Kylian Mbappé's career trajectory showcases his talent for capturing pivotal moments. Drawing from his extensive World Cup coverage, Gaudin describes the electric atmosphere at the Lusail Stadium when Mbappé nearly carried France to glory in 2022. His narrative expertly balances technical analysis with human interest, painting a portrait of not just a footballer, but a cultural icon. Perhaps most impressive is Gaudin's ability to contextualise modern games. His analysis of how Jude Bellingham adapted to Spanish football demonstrates his profound understanding of different playing styles across leagues. The author's presence at key matches allows him to share firsthand accounts of tactical innovations and evolving playing philosophies. The chapter on emerging talents reveals Gaudin's keen eye for spotting future stars. His assessment of players like Florian Wirtz and Gavi draws upon his decades of experience watching young talents develop. Through his seasoned perspective, readers gain insight into what separates potential from genuine world-class ability. ROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48Delivered to You Mid September 2025 Some publishers release new titles early, so our ETA above could change. Publisher: Visit Gelding Street Press Published: September 11, 2025 Price: £14.99 Hardcover: 208 pages ISBN-10: 1922662259 ISBN-13: 978-1922662255 Lavishly illustrated Dimensions: 250 x 180 (mm) Why Pre-order? Since 2022, we've observed that publishers often opt for smaller print runs to manage costs effectively. This process has occasionally resulted in stock shortages. We strongly recommend pre-ordering to secure your copy and avoid disappointment.
