This episode features Michael Cox, a tactical writer for The Athletic, alongside Mark Carey, a data analytics expert, and Liam Tharme, a data analyst. They dive into a key statistic for each Premier League team, highlighting Nottingham Forest's impressive turnaround and Newcastle's unique high-intensity play. Aston Villa’s tactical fouling is dissected, paired with insights on Southampton and Everton's struggles. The trio expertly connects stats with team dynamics, making for an engaging and insightful analysis of Premier League action.

Charlie Eccleshare, a football journalist, Tom Williams, a seasoned writer, and Liam Tharme, a football analyst, dive deep into the recent Champions League chaos. They dissect Real Madrid's dominant victory over Manchester City, spotlighting Kylian Mbappé's brilliance. The trio also examines Liverpool's mixed form leading up to their clash with City and reflects on the troubling fate of Serie A clubs in Europe. Their banter reveals tactical insights and emotional highs and lows that define the beautiful game.

Join Thom Harris and Liam Tharme, both tactics and data analytics writers for The Athletic, as they dissect football’s tactically intriguing teams to watch in 2025. They explore emerging teams that thrive despite financial limits, like Strasbourg FC, showcasing their tactical evolution reminiscent of Chelsea. Getafe's unorthodox style shines through their low-possession play, while Nottingham Forest highlights unique counter-attacking strategies. The discussion also touches on youth development innovations and the competitive edge of Ligue 1.

Michael Cox, a football tactics writer, joins Mark Carey, a data analytics expert, and Liam Tharme, a commentary specialist, for an insightful discussion on back three formations. They delve into how managers like Ruben Amorim and Simone Inzaghi successfully employ these tactics. The trio explores whether back threes are experiencing a revival and if Manchester United can adjust under Amorim’s system. Additionally, they analyze the challenges and adaptations teams face when implementing this dynamic formation in modern football.

Michael Cox, a football tactics writer for The Athletic, leads a fascinating discussion with data analysts Liam Tharme and Mark Carey on the evolving role of centre-backs. They explore the blend of physical and technical skills required in today’s game. The trio dives into the significance of defensive partnerships, analyzing successful pairings like Murillo and Milenkovic. They also examine innovative methods to measure defensive performance and the importance of adaptability amidst tactical shifts in football.

Mark Carey, Liam Tharme, and Thom Harris, all football tactics and data analytics writers for The Athletic, dive into the winter transfer window. They discuss which new players could genuinely transform their teams this season. Key highlights include Bournemouth’s signing of Julio Soler and its alignment with a youth-focused strategy. The trio also examines tactical impacts in clubs like Manchester City and Arsenal, alongside the strategic intricacies of player recruitment in a changing football landscape.

Michael Cox, Mark Carey, and Liam Tharme discuss the most competitive leagues in Europe, analyzing factors like finance, talent depth, and league spread. They explore the challenges in determining league strength and how it influences player scouting. Topics include dominance of PSG, financial constraints in Serie A, and tactical repercussions in football teams.

This week features Michael Cox, a football tactics writer; Mark Carey, who specializes in data analytics; and Liam Tharme, an expert in tactical analysis. They tackle the crucial role of Premier League experience in January signings, emphasizing the unique demands of mid-season integration. The trio dives into the complexities of managerial transitions, discussing why new coaches often face decline. Plus, they explore the strategic value of left-footed central midfielders and their impact on modern gameplay, capped off with a playful quiz on shooting statistics.

In this engaging discussion, football experts Charlie Eccleshare, Natalie Gedra, and Liam Tharme join Fabian Hürzeler, Brighton's new head coach. They delve into the upcoming clash between Aston Villa and Arsenal, revisiting last season's surprises and tactical dynamics. Insights into Brighton's transformation under Hürzeler and their face-off against Manchester United are also explored. The conversation touches on player performance anxieties and the implications of Chelsea's transfer strategies, offering listeners a lively preview of the Premier League action.

A football analyst, soccer enthusiast, sports journalist, and football tactics expert discuss Belgium's win over Romania and Portugal's victory against Turkey. They also analyze Georgia's draw with the Czech Republic. The podcast previews upcoming matches and explores the potential outcomes for Scotland and Switzerland in the tournament.