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The Athletic FC Podcast
Is the new Champions League format better?
Jan 30, 2025
Join James Horncastle, a sharp football reporter, Phil Hay, the lead writer for Athletic FC, and Jacob Tanswell, Aston Villa's correspondent, as they dive into the revamped Champions League format. They debate its pros and cons, including its revenue potential and its effect on fan engagement. Highlights include Manchester City's thrilling win, the challenges posed by giants like Real Madrid, and Aston Villa's transfer talks around players like Jhon Duran and Ollie Watkins. Get insights into the implications of newfound dynamics in European football!
48:16
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Quick takeaways
- Manchester City's narrow Champions League win highlights their defensive vulnerabilities, raising concerns ahead of tough playoff matchups against elite teams.
- The simultaneous scheduling of Champions League matches created an exhilarating viewing experience, but raised questions about long-term sustainability and team adaptation to the new format.
Deep dives
Manchester City's Champions League Struggles
Manchester City's recent performance highlighted their vulnerability in the Champions League, as they narrowly avoided elimination against Club Bruges with a 3-1 win. Despite showcasing their attacking capabilities, City exhibited significant defensive issues, particularly after a shaky first half where Bruges took the lead. The introduction of Savinho shifted the game's momentum, allowing City to respond effectively, but concerns about their inconsistency linger. The upcoming playoff matchups against teams like Real Madrid or Bayern Munich present a considerable challenge, especially given City’s struggles with defensive cohesion and pressure management.
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Discover
highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode