The Athletic FC Tactics Podcast Why the promoted sides are so much better this season
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Oct 2, 2025 
Michael Cox, a tactical analyst known for his detailed insights, joins Mark Carey, a data-driven football writer, and Liam Tharme, a tactical commentator, to discuss the impressive performance of this season's promoted Premier League clubs. They explore how strategic recruitment and a shift towards pragmatic tactics have contributed to their success. The discussion covers the importance of solid defenses, the impact of key recruitment at clubs like Sunderland, and concerns about sustainability for teams like Burnley and Leeds, along with current relegation candidates.
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Promoted Teams Are Actually Better
- Promoted clubs this season are simply better across recruitment and setup rather than benefiting from luck alone.
- Michael Cox notes they’ve signed decent players and managers have set them up to compete effectively.
Tactical Shift Favors Simpler Defences
- The league's tactical shift toward more direct play and set-piece emphasis lowers the bar for promoted teams.
- Michael Cox suggests fewer elaborate passing moves means promoted sides need less complex defending to compete.
Goalkeepers Are Making The Difference
- Strong shot-stopping from new or experienced keepers has been a key differentiator for promoted clubs.
- Michael Cox highlights Roos, Dubravka and Darlow as having positive post-shot-xG impacts so far.