Football Weekly

The Guardian
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Jun 18, 2025 • 31min

The Audio Long Read: ‘The Silicon Valley of turf’ – how the UK’s pursuit of the perfect pitch changed football

Discover how financial investments have revolutionized football pitches, transforming them from quagmires and ice rinks to immaculate playing surfaces. Learn about the rise of groundskeepers who have become stars in their own right, utilizing innovative techniques and cutting-edge technology. Their work not only enhances player performance but also elevates the sport's overall image. The pursuit of the perfect pitch plays a crucial role in modern football, reflecting a significant shift in how the game is approached.
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20 snips
Jun 16, 2025 • 56min

The Club World Cup kicks off and Thomas Frank in at Spurs - Football Weekly

Nicky Bandini, a football journalist known for her expertise in Italian football, joins Mark Langdon from the Racing Post, who specializes in betting insights. They dive into the kickoff of the Club World Cup, discussing unexpected results like Al Ahly's goalless draw and Bayern's staggering 10-0 win. The conversation shifts to Tottenham's appointment of Thomas Frank as manager, with insights on fan reactions and the challenges ahead. They also touch on the pressures of youth football events and the evolving landscape of football commentary.
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24 snips
Jun 12, 2025 • 57min

Is football ready for the Club World Cup? Football Weekly Extra

Nick Ames, a knowledgeable journalist and commentator, teams up with Paul Watson, an insightful contributor focused on global football leagues, to explore the upcoming Club World Cup. They tackle the new 32-team format and the complex political implications of hosting in the U.S. Concerns about player fatigue and scheduling arise, alongside the contrasting views between European skepticism and South American enthusiasm. The duo also highlights lesser-known clubs, such as Mamelodi Sundowns, and the financial intricacies impacting their journey in the tournament.
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Jun 11, 2025 • 54min

England made to suffer by Senegal and a Welsh thriller in Belgium – Football Weekly podcast

Nedum Onuoha, a former professional footballer and pundit, joins journalist John Brewin to dissect England's surprising defeat to Senegal, marking a pivotal moment for African football. They analyze England's tactical struggles and the transition between veteran and young players, while highlighting Ivan Toney's role in the national setup. The duo also recounts the thrilling near-comeback of Wales against Belgium, exploring the intensity of that match and discussing intriguing ethical dilemmas in the sport, including Lukaku's complex narrative.
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10 snips
Jun 9, 2025 • 56min

England’s grind, Nations League drama and Ange Postecoglou out at Spurs – Football Weekly

Dive into England's laborious victory over Andorra and the frustrations simmering within the squad. The surprising managerial changes in the face of recent successes add intrigue, particularly at Tottenham. Explore how FIFA grapples with immigration issues affecting World Cup access and the emotional highs and lows of the Nations League. Sheffield Wednesday's financial struggles bring a humorous twist, alongside unexpected football connections with pop culture icons.
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25 snips
Jun 5, 2025 • 59min

Dissecting Tuchel’s England squad and transfer talk – Football Weekly Extra podcast

Max Rushden chats with Paul Watson, a football expert and documentary filmmaker, and Dan Bardell, a transfer analyst. They delve into Tuchel's England squad ahead of a crucial qualifier against Andorra. Key omissions like Ivan Toney are debated, alongside the implications of recent performances from big names like Ronaldo. The trio also tackles the latest transfer news, including Liverpool's strategies and Brentford's acquisition of Kelleher. Their lighthearted banter offers insights into coaching challenges in unique locations, making for an engaging discussion.
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7 snips
Jun 3, 2025 • 52min

End of season mailbag special – Football Weekly

Philippe Auclair, a passionate French football journalist, and John Brewin, a keen observer of global football, join the hosts for a lively conversation. They reflect on a thrilling season filled with unforgettable moments and cringeworthy fan behavior during celebrations. The discussion shifts to Manchester United's needed mindset overhaul and surprising transfer news. They also humorously address the complex relationship between football fame, financial struggles, and tournament fatigue, all while sharing a chuckle over parks and parking anecdotes.
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23 snips
Jun 2, 2025 • 56min

Champions League glory for PSG at last – Football Weekly

Jonathan Wilson and Nicky Bandini weigh in on Paris Saint-Germain's historic 5-0 Champions League victory over Inter Milan, celebrating the team's rise with a focus on young talent. They analyze PSG's dominant performance and contrast their journey in Europe with the ethical dilemmas surrounding their financial backing. The episode also dives into the relationship between football and violence, addressing the need for improved safety measures. Plus, they reflect on Inter Milan's struggles and the changing landscape of football formats, making for a lively discussion.
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17 snips
May 29, 2025 • 56min

Champions League final preview, plus Chelsea win a thing! – Football Weekly Extra podcast

The podcast kicks off by celebrating Chelsea's Europa Conference League win, highlighting players like Rhys James. The discussion turns serious as they analyze recent fan violence between Chelsea and Betis supporters, reflecting on changing behaviors in football culture. Anticipation builds for the Champions League final, dissecting the tactical strengths of PSG and Inter Milan. There's also a humorous take on a young player's mega contract and its financial implications for clubs, alongside the latest buzz in transfer news.
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May 27, 2025 • 57min

Sunderland, Charlton and Wimbledon celebrate playoff joy: Football Weekly

In this lively discussion, George Elek from NotTheTop20 shares his deep knowledge of football data and statistics while celebrating the thrilling playoff victories of Sunderland, Charlton, and AFC Wimbledon. The team delves into Sunderland's return to the Premier League, highlighting a young star's pivotal goal and the tactical challenges faced by Sheffield United. They also reflect on Charlton's joyous achievement and the emotional rollercoaster of the playoffs, sprinkled with light-hearted banter. Attention shifts to future prospects and fan safety concerns, making for an entertaining and insightful conversation.

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