Where will Mbappé play at Madrid and will Kane finally win a trophy? Football Weekly
Aug 6, 2024
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Join sports journalist Barry Glendenning, football writer Nicky Bandini, Norwegian analyst Lars Sivertsen, and commentator Phil Kitromilides as they dive into the thrilling world of football. They discuss Kylian Mbappé's potential impact at Real Madrid and how his arrival might shake up team dynamics. The conversation shifts to the competitive landscape in Serie A, highlighting Inter Milan's rise and Bologna's struggles. With anecdotes about Harry Kane's quest for trophies and the humor of TikTok culture, the blend of analysis and fun makes for an engaging listen.
Kylian Mbappé's potential arrival at Real Madrid could revolutionize their attack, demanding tactical fluidity to integrate multiple star players.
Real Madrid's midfield faces challenges with the departure of Toni Kroos, putting more pressure on young talents to step up.
Barcelona's financial struggles hinder their competitiveness in La Liga, complicating their strategies for returning to European prominence.
Deep dives
Real Madrid's Exciting New Addition
The arrival of Kylian Mbappe at Real Madrid has sparked excitement regarding the possible transformation of the team's attack. With an array of talented players including Vinicius Jr., Jude Bellingham, and Rodrigo, the coaching staff faces the challenge of effectively integrating all these stars into a cohesive formation. Speculation suggests that Mbappe may be best suited playing on the left side, reminiscent of his past at PSG. However, the competition for playing time and the need for tactical fluidity might mean that the starting lineup will see some rotations as they find the best combinations.
Real Madrid's Key Departures and Their Impact
Real Madrid will experience notable absences this season with the departures of veteran players like Toni Kroos and Nacho. Kroos' exit especially raises concerns, as losing a player of his experience, who performed exceptionally last season, creates a significant void in midfield. This could lead to increased responsibilities for younger talents, such as Luka Modric and Ardagh Guler, who may need to step up in key midfield roles. The team will need to adjust quickly to maintain their competitive edge given these significant changes in the squad.
Barcelona's Financial Challenges Persist
Barcelona continues to grapple with significant financial challenges despite having sold off various assets in previous seasons. The club's reluctance to engage in substantial transfers and rely on financial levers has left them in a precarious situation, limiting their competitiveness in La Liga. Furthermore, ongoing struggles with player exits and the necessity to offload contracts complicate their offseason strategy. With aspirations of returning to the upper echelons of European football, their current trajectory seems increasingly fragile.
Bundesliga Competition Heating Up
The upcoming Bundesliga season is poised to be competitive as Bayern Munich faces challenges from teams like Bayer Leverkusen and Borussia Dortmund. Bayern's recent roster changes and a transitional phase under new management create uncertainty about their dominance in the league. Meanwhile, Leverkusen has retained key players, allowing them to build upon last year's successful campaign. Dortmund, fresh under a new coaching direction, is also looking to reclaim their status and challenge for the top spots, positioning the Bundesliga for an exciting season ahead.
Atletico Madrid's Rebuilding Phase
Atletico Madrid is undergoing a significant rebuilding phase following the departures of key players such as Alvaro Morata and Memphis Depay. The club's recent signings, including Robin Lenormand and potential newcomer Julian Alvarez, reflect a commitment to maintaining competitiveness in La Liga. With a focus on integrating new players into their system, Atletico seeks to solidify their roster while adapting to losses. This rejuvenation will require strategic gameplay to ensure they remain a formidable force in the league amidst an evolving landscape.
Max Rushden is joined by Barry Glendenning, Nicky Bandini, Lars Sivertsen and Phil Kitromilides for the first Euro pod of the season. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/footballweeklypod
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