Can Newcastle finally win at the Etihad? Can the Lionesses become world champions?
Aug 17, 2023
auto_awesome
Football expert George Caulkin joins Jimbo, Duncan Alexander, Tom Williams, and Daniel Story to discuss Newcastle's potential challenge to Manchester City, Chelsea's acquisitions and squad strengthening, physical displays of frustration by football players, the split between match-going fans and online fans, and Marseille's search for a new striker. They also touch on Neymar's career and upcoming episodes.
Newcastle United has a strong chance to challenge Manchester City at the Etihad, taking advantage of City's Champions League fatigue and missing Kevin De Bruyne.
Chelsea's smart financial management and strategic signings of Caceres and Lavier strengthen their midfield, ensuring squad depth and competition in key positions.
The delay in making a decision about Mason Greenwood's return raises concerns about the responsibility of footballers as role models and reflects broader societal issues around athlete behavior.
Deep dives
Newcastle's Strong Start and Challenging Man City
Newcastle United impresses with their strong start and a dominant win against Aston Villa. The team is in great shape and has a depth in squad they haven't seen before. With a tough fixture ahead against Manchester City, many believe this can be a real test for Newcastle. Playing City early in the season might work in their favor, as City players may still be recovering from their Champions League campaign. While City is without Kevin De Bruyne and Newcastle hasn't won at the Etihad since 2000, there is optimism that Newcastle can challenge City and continue their impressive performance this season.
Chelsea's Midfield Reinforcements
Chelsea makes big moves in bolstering their midfield with the signings of Moises Caceres and Romeo Lavier. Despite spending large amounts of money in recent times, Chelsea manages their finances smartly and reduces their wage bill by selling high-wage players. The addition of Caceres and Lavier addresses the midfield gaps left by the departures of players like Jorginho, Kovacic, and Loftus-Cheek. While some may question the need for both signings, Chelsea understands the importance of squad depth and competition in key positions. Their strong financial management and strategic signings ensure they have the resources to challenge for top-four finishes and achieve success.
The Mason Greenwood Controversy
Manchester United faces a controversial decision regarding the return of Mason Greenwood to the team. Despite the charges against him for attempted rape and actual bodily harm being dropped, many fans and observers express concerns over his behavior. The recorded evidence and photographs present a disturbing picture, and it raises questions about the responsibility of footballers as role models. The delay in making a decision has led to frustrations, and it remains to be seen how Manchester United will handle the situation. This case reflects broader societal issues around how these incidents involving professional athletes are addressed and the messages being sent regarding acceptable behavior.
England reaches the Women's World Cup final
England's women's national team has reached the final of the Women's World Cup in Australia. They have overcome setbacks and challenges throughout the tournament, displaying a strong belief in their abilities and adapting to different playing styles. Their coach, Sarina Wiegmann, has an impressive track record in knockout tournaments, having only lost one game as a head coach in previous national team roles. The lionesses will face a formidable Spanish team in the final, known for their possession-based style of play. However, England's unshakable belief and ability to win in various ways make them a strong contender for the world title.
Impressive rise of Australian support for women's football
Australia has witnessed an incredible surge of support and enthusiasm for women's football, particularly during the Women's World Cup. The Matildas, Australia's national women's team, have captured the nation's attention and sparked widespread fascination with their performance on and off the field. The team's matches have attracted record-breaking TV viewing figures, highlighting the immense impact of the sport and its players on Australian viewers. Despite the recent internal issues within the Spanish team, their impressive talent and possession-based style of play make them a tough opponent for England in the final.
Jimbo, Duncan Alexander, Tom Williams and a down under Daniel Storey feast their eyes upon a mouthwatering football weekend.
Newcastle have never won a league game at the Etihad but this might be their best chance for some time as the red-hot Magpies take on a De Bruyne-less Manchester City. The Athletic's George Caulkin explains more.
Chelsea add two more expensive central midfielders to their ranks. Hear why they need Caicedo and Lavia to hit the ground running now.And it’s been a busy week for Man United on and off the pitch.
England take on Spain in the final of the Women’s World Cup final in Sydney on Sunday, with Sarina’s side seemingly untouchable as they grasp immortality.
Plus Everton’s signings system and the best ways to throw a strop
Produced by Charlie Jones.
RUNNING ORDER:
• PART 1: Man City v Newcastle preview with George Caulkin (03.45)
• PART 2a: West Ham v Chelsea preview (22.00)
• PART 2b: Liverpool v Bournemouth preview (30.00)
• PART 3: A busy week at Man United (35.00)
• PART 4a: The rest of the Premier League weekend (48.00)
• PART 4b: Women’s World Cup final preview (53.00)
SIGN UP TO THE ATHLETIC TODAY FOR £1.99 A MONTH FOR 12 MONTHS
