The Rest Is Football

Join Alexis Mac Allister, the World Cup-winning midfielder from Argentina now dazzling for Liverpool, as he reflects on Messi's inspiring leadership during the World Cup triumph. He shares insights on Brighton’s successful football ethos and the tactical evolution in midfield play. Discover what makes a great manager, who he looks up to, and how Mo Salah motivates him to hit the gym more often. Get a glimpse into the emotional rollercoaster of winning the World Cup and the tight-knit bonds that fuel their success on the pitch.

Who could be the next England captain after Harry Kane? The hosts reflect on their first extravagant purchases after landing their paychecks. They dive into their all-time favorite TV shows, debating everything from 'Succession' to 'Prison Break'. Adding humor, they discuss their biggest annoyances in modern football, like VAR and changing tactical styles. The nostalgia flows as they reminisce about legendary players and their own early careers, creating a lively blend of football and entertainment.

Liverpool's stunning victory over Manchester City raises questions about City's title chances. Enzo Maresca's transformation of Chelsea showcases tactical brilliance in chaos. Meanwhile, promising signs emerge for Manchester United's ambitious strategy. Justin Kluivert impressively scores a hat-trick of penalties for Bournemouth, adding flair to the Premier League narrative. Arsenal's rise contrasts sharply with Newcastle's challenges, as standout players like Odegaard and Saka shine in crucial moments.

As Manchester City struggles near the bottom of the table, the tension rises over their future in promotion. Real Madrid faces challenges on the pitch, with tactical issues surfacing during a disheartening loss at Anfield. Controversial VAR decisions are scrutinized, especially regarding Aston Villa's match against Juventus. Liverpool's Curtis Jones shines as a rising star, while the landscape of European football remains unpredictable with standout performances from players like Lewandowski and Wurtz, making for an exciting season of surprises.

Rodri, a Spanish professional footballer and Ballon d'Or winner, dives into the recent controversy over Real Madrid's boycott of the award. He shares candid insights about his experiences with managers Pep Guardiola and Diego Simeone. Rodri reveals why he considers Mo Salah the toughest opponent he’s faced in the Premier League. Plus, he recounts the England players' reactions when they realized he wouldn't return for the second half of the Euros Final, offering a unique glimpse into the high-pressure world of professional football.

The hosts dive into the intriguing rumors surrounding Mo Salah's future at Liverpool, debating whether he's more likely to stay or go. They share hilarious anecdotes about football legends and discuss the cleanest strikers in the Premier League. Engaging in nostalgic reflections, they touch on memorable moments from the 2006 World Cup and critique the often dubious nature of transfer rumors. Additionally, they explore the evolving dynamics of team performance and the impact of legendary players on the game.

The discussion kicks off with Leicester's surprising managerial sacking, analyzing their performance and possible replacements. There's a deep dive into Ruben Amorim's debut with Manchester United and whether teams have cracked the code on Man City. Ipswich's historic 4-0 win over Tottenham is celebrated, with standout performances stealing the spotlight. The episode wraps up with a look at young talents emerging from Brighton and the ongoing VAR controversies shaking up the Premier League.

Michail Antonio, a dynamic forward for West Ham United and the Jamaican national team, shares his rollercoaster journey in football. He reflects on overcoming a rocky start to help West Ham claim their first European trophy in nearly six decades. Antonio discusses his unique transformation from fullback to striker and reveals the mental health challenges that shaped his career. He fondly remembers his fierce table tennis skills and shares insights on the relentless pressure Premier League players face, especially during lockdown.

Should referees wear microphones during matches? The discussion dives into whether this would improve transparency or create more issues. They also examine Alan's goals, with a cheeky debate on how many were 'lucky.' The spotlight shines on Rodri, dubbed the best player in the world, as they explore his unique qualities. Plus, personal stories about the most thrilling football matches and the debate between winning trophies versus Premier League survival enrich the conversation.

England's resounding win against Ireland showcases the transformative impact of Lee Carsley's leadership. Jude Bellingham shines, signaling a bright future. Meanwhile, the Republic of Ireland grapples with a decline in talent and training. Newcastle players impress, with Jared Bowen's goal boosting squad morale. The discussion also highlights Thomas Tuchel's upcoming challenges, focusing on team dynamics and balancing emerging stars with seasoned talents. Harry Kane's insights stress the importance of teamwork over individual accolades in pursuit of success.