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Read all about about the infamous El Clasico rivalry

El Clasico has written its name in the history books for being one of the most fiercely contested fixtures to take place every single season. The rivalry between Barcelona and Real Madrid, both on and off the pitch, has long been a melting pot for bitterness and an occasion where nothing but victory will do for either side.

Looking for the best football books to read in 2023? GOAL has you covered

If you're somewhat of a bookworm and want to dive into the more profound history, managerial tactical battles and the reasons behind why both clubs are amongst the powerhouses in global football – you're going to love these books. We've compiled a list of the best and most entertaining El Clasico books you can read right now.

If you like to read autobiographies, you'll love our guide for the best football autobiographies to read.

Shop: Best El Clasico books

Fear and Loathing in La Liga: Barcelona vs Real Madrid by Sid LoweYellow Jersey$17.99 at Amazon

In , Sid Lowe outlines the fierce rivalry between two of the biggest football clubs in the world. As a historian and Spanish football expert, Lowe explores the rivalry's roots, which stem all the way from civil war to its modern-day domination as the El Clasico in football.

El Clasico: Barcelona v Real Madrid: Football's Greatest RivalryBloomsbury Paperbacks$20.08 at Amazon

Bitterness is never far away from the surface when Real Madrid and Barcelona meet each other on the football field. It is rooted in history and has forged rivalries off the pitch, from General Franco and the bloody civil war to the Catalan city of Barcelona's lukewarm reaction to Spain's most recent World Cup and European Championship triumphs. This book covers it all and so much more.

The Man Who Saved FC Barcelona by Sue O'ConnellAmberley Publishing $23.40 at Amazon

Patrick O'Connell turned his career as a player in the English leagues into a successful period as a Spanish football manager, most notably guiding Real Betis to their only title success in La Liga. But the story of how he saved Barcelona from financial ruin as their boss during the Spanish Civil War forms the bulk of this remarkable tale, penned by his grandson's wife.

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The Real Madrid Way by Steven G. MandisBenBella Books$16.95 at Amazon

The Real Madrid story is unique, and by Steven G.Mandis details how the club rose to the top quickly to dominate in the modern footballing landscape. Mandis has rigorously researched and analysed how Los Blancos went from near bankruptcy to becoming one of the most valuable sporting organisations in the world.