Shows and Movies Like Bilardo, the Soccer Doctor

Description: This documentary explores the rise and fall of the New York Cosmos, a team that brought glamour and global stars to American soccer, reflecting the cultural impact of football.

Fact: The Cosmos signed Pelé in 1975, marking a pivotal moment in the growth of soccer in the United States.

Description: This biographical film traces Pelé's rise from a young boy in Brazil to a global football superstar, emphasizing the transformative power of football in a person's life.

Fact: The movie features actual footage from Pelé's early matches, blending reality with dramatization.

Description: This film dramatizes the turbulent 44-day tenure of Brian Clough as manager of Leeds United, focusing on the intense pressures and politics of football management.

Fact: The movie is based on the novel by David Peace, which fictionalizes real events from Clough's career.

Description: A unique blend of comedy and drama where a troubled postman finds inspiration through imaginary conversations with football legend Eric Cantona, highlighting football's influence on personal redemption.

Fact: Eric Cantona plays himself in the film, adding a meta layer to the story.

Description: A documentary about the American Samoa football team's quest to overcome their status as the world's worst team, highlighting the underdog spirit and passion for the game.

Fact: The team famously lost 31-0 to Australia in 2001, the worst defeat in international football history.

Description: A historical drama about Bert Trautmann, a German POW who became a football hero in England, showcasing the unifying power of football across cultural divides.

Fact: Trautmann famously played the 1956 FA Cup final with a broken neck, securing victory for Manchester City.

Description: A deep dive into the life of one of football's most iconic figures, highlighting the pressures and triumphs of a legendary player, similar to the exploration of a football personality's journey.

Fact: The film uses previously unseen footage from Maradona's time at Napoli, offering a unique perspective on his career.

Description: This documentary series provides an intimate look behind the scenes of a top-tier football club, showcasing the highs and lows of a season, much like the focus on the inner workings of a football team.

Fact: The series was filmed over the course of the 2017-2018 Premier League season, capturing Manchester City's record-breaking 100-point campaign.

Description: A historical drama series that delves into the origins of modern football in England, focusing on the social and class dynamics that shaped the sport.

Fact: The series is produced by Julian Fellowes, the creator of Downton Abbey, blending period drama with sports history.

Description: A documentary series that captures the emotional rollercoaster of a football club's season, from the perspective of the fans, players, and staff, emphasizing the communal spirit of the sport.

Fact: The series was filmed during Sunderland's relegation from the Championship, offering a raw look at the club's struggles.