Tim Spiers, a seasoned football writer, and Thom Harris, a football data analyst, dive into the thrilling matchup between Manchester City and Chelsea. They discuss City's tactical struggles and midfield vulnerabilities after recent performances. Chelsea's bounce-back win over Wolves is highlighted, along with their need for better goal-scoring strategies. Both guests make predictions about the clash, emphasizing the implications for the race to the top four. The conversation also touches on player transfers and team dynamics as the season heats up.
Manchester City needs to address midfield deficiencies and reassess tactics following their inability to maintain game control, especially after recent losses.
Chelsea's recent victory over Wolves indicates potential revitalization, emphasizing the significance of building confidence through resilient performances against tough opponents.
Deep dives
Starting a Business with Shopify
The importance of taking action towards entrepreneurship is emphasized, particularly in the context of the New Year. Shopify is introduced as a valuable platform for aspiring business owners, making it easy to set up a customizable online store without any prior coding or design experience. By utilizing drag-and-drop features, users can quickly establish their brand and begin making sales. The urgency of starting a business now is highlighted, with a warning about potential regret for those who delay their entrepreneurial aspirations.
Mental Health and Therapy
The conversation pivots to the significance of mental health and the potential benefits of therapy, highlighting that individuals are encouraged to envision their future rather than adhering to a 'new year, new me' mantra. BetterHelp is introduced as an accessible therapy service that offers convenience and affordability, catering to a large audience. An emphasis is placed on the fact that therapy is not exclusively for those who have gone through major trauma but can benefit anyone seeking personal development. The importance of finding the right therapeutic fit is reinforced, as clients have the flexibility to switch therapists without incurring additional costs.
Manchester City's Tactical Struggles
Manchester City's recent performance issues are analyzed, particularly their struggles with maintaining control in matches despite moments of brilliance. The team is noted for its difficulty in managing games, especially highlighted by their loss to Paris Saint-Germain in which they surrendered a two-goal lead. The lack of effective midfield play is identified as a critical area needing improvement, as City has encountered problems with players being overexposed and unable to secure crucial tackles. As they face tough upcoming fixtures, the need for tactical reassessment is stressed if they want to avoid falling further behind in the league.
Chelsea's Revival Amidst Challenges
Chelsea's recent victory signals a potential turning point after grappling with a poor run of form, illustrating the team's resilience despite mixed performances. The challenges faced by their squad and the influence of young talent on the pitch are discussed, with a recognition that winning, regardless of style, can serve as a building block for confidence. Additionally, concerns about Chelsea's reliance on individual players for goals are raised, particularly the pressing responsibilities expected from their forwards. The upcoming clash with Manchester City presents both an opportunity to capitalize on City's weaknesses and a test of Chelsea's ability to maintain momentum moving forward.
Manchester City host Chelsea at the Etihad on Saturday and with just two points separating the sides this could be a key battle in the race for the top four.
Pep Guardiola will be looking to get back on track after seeing his side throw away a two goal lead in the Champions League midweek, losing 4-2 to PSG at the Parc des Princes, with issues in midfield an ongoing problem. After already spending more than €140m in the January transfer window, do Manchester City need further additions?
Following five Premier League games without a victory, Chelsea got back to winning ways on Monday beating Wolves 3-1 at Stamford Bridge, but how does Enzo Maresca get his forwards firing again?
Plus we check in with the club podcasts across The Athletic FC and look ahead to a fixture that nobody would've predicted being quite so exciting when the season kicked off; Bournemouth vs Nottingham Forest.
Host: Michael Bailey
With: Tim Spiers, Thom Harris
Featuring: Sam Lee, Simon Johnson, Andy Mitten, Laurie Whitwell, James Pearce, James McNicholas