Zonal Marking

From Ajax to Zidane, the Making of Modern Soccer

By: Michael W. Cox

Narrated by: Colin Mace

A mazy dribble through the recent history of European soccer, showing how shifting styles and influence have shaped the game.

In the early 1990s, the Dutch footballing philosophy was worshipped across the continent. Then the baton passed to the Italians, who clearly boasted Europe's strongest league. But when France started winning everything at the international level its national academy became the template for others, until suddenly, almost out of nowhere, Europe's most revered player and manager both hailed from Portugal. Next, Barcelona and Spain won everything during a very obvious four-year period of dominance, before tiki-taka's decline meant Bayern and Germany took control. Finally, Europe's most successful coaches found themselves competing in England, introducing a brilliant cacophony of styles to the Premier League.

Zonal Marking is a glorious travelogue through soccer's triumphant styles and characters.

Compelling narrative

One of the best football books I’ve read. Cox’s journey through geographical histories bridges styles and philosophies, wrapped in a compelling narrative.

Very well written and engaging!

I loved the book as it greatly explained the different styles in European football. There were lots of great side stories and analogies that really brought out the ideas presented in the book.

Wonderful narration of European football!

What a fantastically well researched tale of the history of European football! Loved the inter weaving of history into the tale and how Cox uses quotes of contemporaneous players coaches and journalists to embellish the story.
However, I do believe that some stories are missing from this narration. For example, the story of the "losers" - I think there are lessons that can be learned from national teams that did not do as well as expected. Belgium being a great example (although Cox did briefly touch upon another 'always the brideamaid' nation - England). The audiobook narrator was brilliant as well!

brilliant knowledge on football history

I learned so much about the best teams in history. very detailed history about tactics and coaches. Especially the bring-ups of the best footballers in history.

Peerless Analysis of Modern Football

Michael Cox combines tactics, history, and opinion as well anyone in the post-Jonathan Wilson generation. Wilson and Cox are the current deans of modern football journalism and history.

Because I am dyslexic, I struggle with printed work. Thus, “Zonal Marking” is Cox’s lone audiobook available in the USA. I fear that “The Mixer” may never reach our shores. But, if we only get one, “Zonal Marking” is superb. I have already enjoyed it several times. I am sure that I will again soon. I recommend it enthusiastically!