How is the Image of Football Changing with Modern Entertainment Trends?

Football has a long and varied history as the world’s most popular sport. Yet, the way we consume it has changed according to the latest entertainment trends. What are some of the current ways of enjoying football that make us look at the game in a different way?

Looking for the Story Behind the Action in Books and Documentaries

Fans no longer only want to see the game when it takes place. They want to know the story behind the action and more about the lives of their favourite players. The first footballer autobiography was released more than a century ago, with former Derby County and Middlesbrough centre-forward Steve Bloomer’s Memories of Men and Matches. In more recent years, we’ve seen a wave of autobiographies, including the controversial effort from Mary Earps, who saved a penalty in the women’s World Cup final in 2023 that England lost to Spain.

This trend has also led to the rise of football-focused documentaries that give us a look at what goes on behind the scenes. The Final: Attack On Wembley, Welcome to Wrexham, and We Are Newcastle United are some of the recent efforts that show us different aspects of the game. Running With the Wolves from ESPN is listed as one of the best new sports documentaries for 2025. It shows how Kelly Ripa and Mark Consuelos try to revive the fortunes of Campobasso FC in Italy’s Serie C.

Football Games Have Diversified

As online casinos have gained popularity, they’ve driven the emergence of a wide variety of online slots which include football themes. This has also produced new formats, with games like Slingoooal Championship and Football Lucky Tap departing from the traditional slot style. The beautiful game is even included in scratchcard format, with titles like Football Scratchcard.

Viral Moments Are More Important Than Ever

The 90 minutes played in each game remain the most important part of the football world. Having said that, the rise of social media and short-form videos has made viral moments a huge part of how we consume the sport. Goals, tackles, angry reactions, and funny moments are among the top viral moments of 2025, with new clips being shared immediately across the planet. If you can’t watch a full game, this is a great way to understand the key moments and get a feel for the game in just a few moments.

Digital fan engagement has risen in line with this trend, as we look for new ways to feel as though we’re part of the action, even if we can’t get to the stadium. Club mobile apps often include interactive features such as pool and fan quizzes that let everyone join in with the excitement. With live stats dashboards and social media challenges, those viral moments are easier for supporters to capture and enjoy in the way that best suits them.

The pleasure of watching football never grows old, but the way we do it changes with the times. By understanding these modern entertainment trends, we can start to view the game in new ways that fit our current lifestyles and interests.