ESPN FC

Frank Leboeuf, a former France and Chelsea defender, shares his insights on Liverpool's struggles ahead of their match against Aston Villa. He discusses how Villa can exploit Liverpool's defensive weaknesses and emphasizes the need for experience, suggesting Andy Robertson could stabilize the defense. The crew also debates Chelsea's upcoming clash with Tottenham, weighing their attacking options and predicting a potential win. Additionally, they analyze the controversial reaction of Vini Jr during El Clasico, pondering the implications for Real Madrid.

Hosts dive into the strong performances of Son Heung-Min and Denis Bouanga, who are making LAFC title contenders. There's buzz around Messi's suggestion for looser salary rules in MLS to attract top talent. Gio Reyna opens up about the World Cup fallout, sparking debates on accountability and family roles within the USMNT. The discussion also highlights the financial implications of Messi's presence in the league and how it might transform MLS for the better.

Gab Marcotti, an experienced football journalist, and Beth Lindup, a Liverpool correspondent, dive into Arne Slot's controversial comments on Liverpool's squad depth. They discuss Liverpool's recent struggles and Slot's decision to prioritize upcoming matches over the Carabao Cup. The duo also highlights transfer misses affecting the team and the ongoing tensions between Vinicius Jr. and manager Xabi Alonso, addressing the impact on Real Madrid's locker room. Finally, they explore the changing dynamics of set-piece strategies in modern football.

Gab and Don dissect Juventus' decision to part ways with Igor Tudor amidst financial woes and recruitment challenges. They debate the suitability of Luciano Spalletti as a quick-fix solution for the club. The duo also analyze Liverpool's League Cup exit and discuss squad rotation dynamics. Alongside Premier League chaos, they touch on Napoli's gritty performances and Celtic's turmoil, including Brendan Rodgers’ fallout. Finally, they explore legal battles over the Super League and share viral moments in football.

The FC crew react to Liverpool's loss to Crystal Palace in the Carabao Cup as Don Hutchison explains why Arne Slot's lineup changes were the main reason for the defeat. Plus, Jurgen Klinsmann joins the show to break down Bayern Munich's DFB Pokal victory over Koln. Alex Kirkland also gives the latest on Pedri's injury and breaks down the tension in Madrid after Vini Jr.'s apology. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Cristina Alexander, Ali Krieger, and Jeff Kassouf break down the USWNT's two friendly matches against Portugal. Then, Phallon Tullis-Joyce joins the show to discuss the two USWNT friendlies, joining Manchester United, understanding the pressure of being the goalkeeper for USWNT. Plus, Angel City's Christen Press joins the show to discuss her decision to retire at the end of the season and reflecting on her career.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The FC crew reacts to reports that Real Madrid will not punish Vini Jr for his actions during El Clásico. Then, Gustavo Hofman talks Vini Jr's contract situation and whether Vini Jr would move on from Real Madrid. Plus, discussion on Liverpool's struggles with games against Crystal Palace and Real Madrid coming up. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Cristina Alexander, Herculez Gomez and Mauricio Pedroza break down Vini Jr's trantrum after getting subbed off and mocking Barcelona players in the 2-1 win and more from the El Clásico postgame aftermath. Then, the crew react to Inter Miami's win over Nashville, Chucky Lozano not in San Diego's first playoff game, and Tata Marino in talks to return to Atlanta United. Then, the crew discussed if Chivas's Armando Gonzalez could be the 3rd striker for Mexico Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Rob Dawson and James Olley break down the weekend’s Premier League action as Arsenal strengthen their grip on top spot in the Premier League after another defeat for Liverpool. Plus, Manchester United make it three wins in a row, and Rob sits down with Josko Gvardiol to talk Manchester City’s title hopes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The FC crew reacts to Vinícius Júnior being visibly upset about being subbed off during El Clásico and his verbal scuffle with Lamine Yamal after the game. Plus, discussion on who has a better chance to catch up with Arsenal in the Premier League title race. Then, reaction to Manchester United building momentum after picking up 3 Premier League wins in a row. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices