Take It or Leave It: the best MLS export, Everton as European contenders, the best player for an expansion team, and much more!
Dec 19, 2024
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The hosts dive into exciting topics, debating the best player for a theoretical Premier League expansion team. They analyze John Duran as a top MLS export and discuss Everton's future under new ownership. There's a lively segment on the dimensions of the penalty box and its impact on gameplay. Holiday tunes sneak in for some festive fun, while the dynamics between players like Haaland and Saka are explored. The lively banter keeps the conversation light-hearted, balancing soccer insights with Christmas spirit!
57:12
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Quick takeaways
Reducing the penalty box width could lead to fewer cheap fouls, promoting more dynamic plays and exciting gameplay.
Building a Premier League expansion team can hinge on choosing between a creative playmaker or a prolific striker for success.
The Friedkin Group's acquisition of Everton raises optimism for transformation, but questions remain about competing financially in the Premier League.
Deep dives
The Impact of Penalty Box Dimensions
The discussion about whether the penalty box is too wide posits that narrowing it could eliminate cheap penalties resulting from fouls at the edges. It emphasizes the idea that instead of a penalty, these situations should lead to free-kick opportunities, potentially creating more dynamic and interesting plays. The proposal encourages a reevaluation of the box's width to promote fairness and enhance gameplay excitement. Reducing the penalty area may also force defenders to adopt a more cautious approach, leading to a more open and attacking style of play.
Evaluating Premier League Expansion Team Strategies
In evaluating a Premier League expansion team, the debate centers on whether to build around a creative player like Cole Palmer or a prolific striker like Erling Haaland. One perspective argues for the value of a creative playmaker, who can drive a team’s offensive strategy, especially for a newly established club. Yet, another viewpoint highlights that in challenging league conditions, having a dominant striker could be crucial for a team's success, potentially drawing fans and capital. This analysis spotlights the strategic decisions inherent in team development and competitiveness.
Everton's Future under New Ownership
With the recent acquisition of Everton by the Friedkin Group, there is optimism surrounding the club's potential transformation into a European contender. This optimism rests on the new ownership's ability to increase financial input, coupled with the opening of a new stadium that could enhance match-day revenues. However, skepticism remains regarding whether the Friedkins can replicate similar success as with their ownership of AS Roma, especially concerning effective spending and management. The looming question remains: will this investment yield the desired results within the next three years?
Skepticism about Everton's European Aspirations
Despite acknowledging the potential positive impact of new ownership and a modern stadium for Everton, there are serious concerns about the club's ability to become a consistent European competitor. The financial landscape of the Premier League is heavily skewed against teams that lack significant spending power, making a push into the upper echelons challenging. Competing with teams that have established a strong presence, like Brighton and Brentford, adds a layer of complexity to Everton's aspirations. Ultimately, while the club may improve stability, the competition's intensity complicates their path to the top.
Texas Businessmen in Soccer
The podcast playfully debates which Texas businessman embodies the quintessential traits of success and ambition in sports, specifically in relation to Everton's new ownership. Comparisons include the newly installed Dan Friedkin, the fictional Texan from The Simpsons, and Tex Richmond from the Muppets. This humorous comparison emphasizes the cultural narrative often surrounding Texas billionaires, particularly in sports, highlighting their larger-than-life personas. The discussion serves to underscore the complexities and expectations placed on new ownership within sports enterprises.
Your favorite foursome (aside from Leonardo, Donatello, Raphael and Michelangelo) are back together to give their verdict on your hot takes! The best player to build around for a theoretical Premier League expansion team, Jhon Duran as the greatest MLS export, LAFC should sack Cherundolo, the penalty box is too wide, and the impact of the Friedkin Group takeover on Everton. Plus, more Christmas song discussion!
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