Soccer—known as football outside the United States—stands as the world’s premier sport, captivating audiences across the globe. Matches draw crowds in the thousands, while countless fans tune in via television. In Japan, soccer’s popularity has surged, inspiring numerous manga and anime creators to weave compelling narratives around the sport, making these stories accessible even to those unfamiliar with the game.
These dynamic tales not only entertain but serve to introduce the intricacies of soccer to a broader audience. Over the years, many notable soccer anime and manga have surfaced, each capturing the essence and fervor of the game. Below, find a curated list of some of the most exceptional series, perfect for both die-hard fans and newcomers alike.
This list prioritizes anime adaptations; however, it also includes standout manga that lack animated versions but boast superior storytelling and artistry.
Last Updated: March 29, 2025, by Mark Sammut: The release of remarkable new soccer anime has stagnated in 2025, but a wealth of established series continues to deliver compelling content. Additionally, two new recommendations have been added to spice up this collection. Read on to discover what’s new!
16. Victory Kickoff!!
MyAnimeList Rating: 7.20 (Anime)
Victory Kickoff chronicles the journey of Shou, a boy whose passion for soccer outweighs his skill level. When his soccer team faces disbandment, Shou feels defeated. However, a transformative match against a professional female soccer player reignites his spirit. Determined, he sets out to recruit a new team, all while testing his mental fortitude. As he trains and improves, Shou’s evolution propels his team toward potential triumph.
15. The Knight In The Area
MyAnimeList Ratings: 7.16 (Anime) / 7.48 (Manga)
The Knight in the Area immerses readers in the poignant story of Kakeru Aizawa, whose dreams come crashing down after a severe injury forces him into a managerial role. When a tragic accident leads to a unique heart transplant from his brother, Kakeru reconsiders his path. With newfound resolve, he trains rigorously to fulfill his brother’s dream of winning the World Cup despite lacking innate talent.
14. Clean Freak! Aoyama Kun
MyAnimeList Ratings: 6.95 (Anime) / 7.00 (Manga)
Clean Freak! Aoyama Kun takes a novel approach, centering on Aoyama, whose obsession with cleanliness complicates his soccer endeavors. Despite the relational nature of the sport, Aoyama’s unique playing style keeps him out of sticky situations initially, but he soon learns that maintaining such avoidance isn’t a sustainable strategy, especially as his team contends for championships.
13. Fantasista (Manga Only)
MyAnimeList Rating: 7.58
- Author: Michiteru Kusaba
Serialized from 1999 to 2004, Fantasista follows Teppei Sakamoto’s quest to enhance his soccer skills. With training from his sister, he aims to join a high school soccer team and navigate the ups and downs of the game realistically. While lacking groundbreaking elements, the series delivers an authentic portrayal of ambition and talent, making it worth a read despite the absence of an anime adaptation at this stage.
12. Sayonara, Football & Farewell, My Dear Cramer (Manga)
MyAnimeList Ratings: 7.03 & 7.37
Sayonara, Football tells the story of Nozomi Onda, who is determined to excel in soccer despite her physical disadvantages. As she grows in self-confidence, her resolve strengthens. The sequel, Farewell, My Dear Cramer, sees Nozomi team up with others to improve their school’s competitive performance. Although both titles received anime adaptations, the source material remains unparalleled in depth and narrative quality.
11. Whistle!
MyAnimeList Ratings: 7.36 (Anime) / 7.72 (Manga)
Whistle! is centered on Kazamatsuri Shou, who aspires to be a professional soccer player but faces hurdles due to his skill level. His journey through Sakura Jousui High allows him to grow and develop with the help of supportive teammates. While the premise may feel cliché, the narrative’s execution and the character development offer a refreshing take on perseverance in sports.
10. Days
MyAnimeList Ratings: 7.16 (Anime) / 7.59 (Manga)
Days focuses on the burgeoning friendship between Tsukushi, often overlooked due to perceived lack of talent, and Jin, a natural soccer prodigy. Their chance encounter sets them on a path that intertwines their destinies, leading to an engaging narrative of growth against the backdrop of fierce competition. The anime adaptation is enjoyable but arguably pales compared to the depth found in the manga.
9. Detective Conan Movie 16: The Eleventh Striker
MyAnimeList Rating: 7.70
In this unique installment of the Detective Conan franchise, the famed detective delves into a soccer mystery. Tasked with defusing threats during a stadium bomb scare, Conan’s adventures intertwine with thrilling soccer scenes. While it may not be the pinnacle of the series, it serves as an entertaining blend of action and mystery that will appeal to fans of both the sport and the detective genre.
8. Blue Legend Shoot!
MyAnimeList Ratings: 7.38 (Anime) / 7.61 (Manga)
Blue Legend Shoot! stands as a classic in the realm of soccer-themed stories, yet has largely faded from mainstream recognition. While originally intended to reach a wide audience akin to Captain Tsubasa, the series did not achieve its potential. The newer sequel, Shoot! Goal to the Future, failed to replicate its predecessor’s charm. Nonetheless, the engaging blend of soccer and romantic themes makes it a must-watch for dedicated fans.
7. Hungry Heart: Wild Striker
MyAnimeList Ratings: 7.54 (Anime) / 6.86 (Manga)
Hungry Heart: Wild Striker traces the journey of high school student Kyosuke, whose inspiration stems from his elder brother, a professional player. Facing pressure from comparisons to his sibling, Kyosuke initially loses interest in soccer. His move to Jyoyo Orange High School reignites his passion, leading to an evolution that demonstrates the power of self-discovery and personal growth. This series stands out due to its emotional resonance and character development.
6. Giant Killing
MyAnimeList Ratings: 7.53 (Anime) / 7.99 (Manga)
Giant Killing diverges from typical sports narratives by focusing on the challenges faced by East Tokyo United, a struggling soccer club. Following the controversial hire of a new coach, the story emphasizes tactical growth over sheer talent. Praised for its realistic portrayal of soccer management and team dynamics, the manga shines with depth, while the anime adaptation provides a satisfactory experience but lacks the comprehensive storytelling found in the manga.
5. Inazuma Eleven
MyAnimeList Rating: 7.73 (Season 1)
Centered on the beleaguered soccer club at Raimon Middle School, Inazuma Eleven follows captain Mamoru Endou as he strives to rejuvenate the team’s spirit. His efforts lead him to encounter the talented but jaded Shuuya Gouenji, whom he must persuade to rejoin the squad. The series escalates from a simple premise to a grand adventure, merging soccer with thrilling, over-the-top action reminiscent of shonen battle series, making it a delight for viewers.
4. Captain Tsubasa
MyAnimeList Ratings: 7.35 (1983 Anime) / 7.41 (Manga)
Captain Tsubasa has long been regarded as the cornerstone of soccer manga, chronicling young Tsubasa’s dreams of leading Japan to FIFA World Cup glory. The journey from an aspiring player to a national sensation resonated deeply with audiences—yielding over 80 million copies sold. While the original anime holds nostalgic value, newcomers are advised to check out the updated 2018 adaptation for a more modern take.
3. Be Blues! Ao Ni Nare (Manga Only)
MyAnimeList Rating: 7.92
- Author: Motoyuki Tanaka
Be Blues! follows Ryuu, whose life takes a drastic turn after a serious accident sidelines him for two years. The series captures his slow but compelling return to the soccer field, brilliantly illustrating the intertwining of personal growth and sport. Ending in 2022, this manga offers rich characterization and emotional depth, making it one of the most relatable titles in the genre.
2. Blue Lock
MyAnimeList Ratings: 8.21 (Season 1 of Anime); 8.48 (Manga)
In the realm of contemporary soccer narratives, Blue Lock has emerged as a titan, capturing global enthusiasm. This series presents a unique twist on the sports genre, integrating elements typically found in survival or “death game”genres. Driven by the urgent need for Japan to cultivate a world-class striker, the innovative Blue Lock program catapults young athletes into a high-stakes environment that demands personal evolution. Unlike traditional teamwork-focused stories, the emphasis here is on individualism and ambition.
Thematically rich and vibrantly illustrated, the manga captures character journeys compellingly, making it a recommended read over the anime adaptation, which, while stylish, varies in quality across seasons.
1. Ao Ashi
MyAnimeList Ratings: 8.17 (Anime) / 8.59 (Manga)
Ao Ashi tells the incisive journey of Ashito Aoi, a young soccer prodigy whose temper leads to his exit from the team. Following this pivotal incident, Ashito finds guidance in a coach who recognizes his potential and invites him to Tokyo. This series excels in blending high-stakes matches with deeper exploration of the characters’ off-field struggles and aspirations, delivering an engaging perspective on the sport that resonates well with audiences.
For a deep dive into the rich narratives and intense emotions of these soccer tales, explore the source materials and enjoy the well-crafted journeys within the world of soccer manga and anime!