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What It Takes

My Playbook on Life and Leadership

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What It Takes

By: Sarina Wiegman, Jeroen Visscher
Narrated by: Tor Leijten
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About this listen

Winning strategies from the three-time European Championship winner and the only football coach ever to reach the final of five international tournaments.

As FIFA's most decorated female football manager and a former player, Sarina Wiegman has led both the Netherlands and England women's national teams to historic victories. She stands out as a true pioneer in the game, and her coaching philosophy has earned her a reputation as one of the most successful coaches in football history.

This personal account of Sarina's life journey begins with her early passion for football, and covers her key moments on the pitch as well as her ascension to the top of the coaching world. Join Sarina as she talks us through her rollercoaster ride of victories and challenges, the tough decisions she had to make both on and off the pitch, and the relentless pursuit of excellence that saw her rise to become an indomitable figure in the world of sports.

And, it’s not just about the game. In a world where football has become more competitive than ever, Sarina's revolutionary approach to leadership, mentorship, and performance management has garnered global attention. In What It Takes we gain invaluable insight into Sarina’s unique philosophy, as she shares how she fostered an environment that values determination, teamwork, and mutual respect. A strong advocate for women in the sport, she outlines a transformative and inclusive future for football where everyone has an equal chance to shine, irrespective of gender.

Coaching Football (American) Football (Soccer) Sports Women in Business Business Leadership Management Game

Critic reviews

‘Since Sarina joined, we’ve really taken our football to the next level and fully expressed ourselves on the pitch.’ Millie Bright, Lionesses defender and captain

‘Sarina gave me the chance to fulfil my wildest dreams. We won the Euros, and I was honoured as the best goalkeeper in the world.’ Mary Earps, Lionesses goalie

‘By establishing and strengthening my connections with others through my experience and skills, I can contribute significantly to the team's success. Sarina encouraged me to do just that, and it has had a positive effect.’ Lucy Bronze, Lionesses defender

‘She has brought us all together. She is a special person and puts us first as human beings.’ Leah Williamson, Lionesses defender and captain

‘Under Sarina's guidance, I am having the best years of my career with the Lionesses.’ Beth Mead, Lionesses striker

All stars
Most relevant
Loved this book! Inspirational. It will really stick with me. I also loved how it was read as sometimes I find that audiobooks can be read a bit too animatedly as if they’re not realising that some sections might be better read with a softer, sadder or calmer tone. This is read very well and the players names are pronounced well too.

Defo recommend!!

Fantastic - read exceptionally well and brilliant book

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absolutely brilliant read and or listen i fully recommend this to all football fans worldwide, Serena is a brilliant tactician

loved it

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You don’t need to know anything about football to enjoy this. I found it very interesting and enjoyable. The only slight downside is that there are lots of passages from players/coaches/others which are clearly marked when they begin, but sometimes it’s not clear when they’ve finished and we’re back to Sarina’s narrative.

Enjoyable listen

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Inspirational and empowering work.
I would highly recommend this piece of work to all whether interested in football or not as many aspects written and spoken about can be applied to all walks of live.

Excellently written and narrated

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The story/journey is interesting, however it is very difficult to follow at times as quotes/accounts from others (men & women) are the same narrator. At times is difficult to clearly define the end of quotes from the body of text.

Only One Narrator

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