A Completely Different Game: My Leadership Playbook

Emma Hayes's "A Completely Different Game" stands out amidst the abundance of leadership books due to its refreshing authenticity and hard-earned wisdom. The timing of this book couldn't be more perfect Hayes has just led the U.S. Women's National Team to Olympic glory and won the 2024 Ballon d'Or as Women's Soccer Coach of the Year, adding to her impressive collection of fourteen major trophies at Chelsea. 
What makes this book exceptional isn't just Hayes's remarkable track record; it's her ability to translate complex leadership principles into accessible, practical insights. The collaboration with Michael Calvin, an internationally acclaimed sportswriter, ensures the narrative flows naturally between personal anecdotes and leadership lessons, never losing its engaging momentum.
Hayes brings an unusual perspective to leadership literature. With a master's degree in intelligence and international affairs, she approaches team management with both analytical rigour and emotional intelligence. Her openness about her ADHD and how it's shaped her management style adds another layer of authenticity to her insights.
The book's greatest strength is its uncompromising honesty. Hayes doesn't sugarcoat the challenges of leadership or offer a universal solution. Instead, she shares raw, unvarnished stories from her journey, including both triumphs and setbacks. Her recent implementation of "The WNT Way" blueprint, which emphasises looking at everything through a "female lens," demonstrates her innovative approach to leadership and her willingness to challenge conventional wisdom.
Particularly compelling is Hayes's discussion of team culture. Her ability to construct team spirit and foster a winning culture has been central to her success, and the book offers valuable insights into how she achieves this. Her philosophy that "comfort is the death of teams" challenges readers to rethink their assumptions about motivation and performance.
The book is structured intelligently, moving between theoretical frameworks and practical applications. Hayes's voice comes through clearly and directly, occasionally blunt, but always thoughtful. Her inclusion of specific training sessions, team talks, and crisis management scenarios provides readers with concrete tools they can apply in their own leadership contexts. 
One minor criticism might be that some readers could find Hayes's intensity overwhelming. Her uncompromising approach to excellence isn't for everyone, but then again, that's precisely her point: authentic leadership isn't about copying someone else's style but about developing your own.
"A Completely Different Game" is more than just another sports leadership book. It's a master class in authentic leadership from someone who has consistently succeeded in high-pressure environments while remaining true to her principles. Whether you're leading a sports team, managing a business, or simply interested in personal development, Hayes's insights offer valuable lessons about leadership, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence.
The book delivers on its promise to help readers "lead with heart, strength, and authenticity." It's a testament to Hayes's legacy not just in football, but in leadership more broadly. Hayes's voice, in an era where leadership books often feel formulaic, stands out with refreshing clarity and conviction.
Five out of five stars: a must-read for anyone interested in leadership, sports management, or the evolution of women's football. 
ROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48 Delivered to You 3rd May 2025 
Some publishers release new titles early, so our ETA above could change.
Publisher: Visit Piatkus
Published: May 8, 2025
Price: £10.99
Hardcover: 288 pages
ISBN-10: 0349443289
ISBN-13: 978-0349443287
Dimensions: 126 x 198 (mm)