The Athletic FC Tactics Podcast

Ilkay Gündoğan, the former Manchester City and Germany midfielder, shares insights on his time under Pep Guardiola and Jürgen Klopp. He reflects on the tactical intricacies of Guardiola's possession play versus Klopp's pressing style. Gündoğan discusses his evolution as a player, the role of midfielders, and adapting to a demanding training regimen. He touches on the importance of scanning and awareness in midfield, his goal-scoring tactics, and what his future in football may hold, including aspirations in coaching.

Join Mark Carey, tactical analyst, Liam Tharme, football writer, and Michael Cox, renowned tactician, as they dissect the delicate balance between star players and team structures. They debate whether Jude Bellingham, Phil Foden, and Jack Grealish should fit into Thomas Tuchel's England squad based on their system needs. The discussion touches on how international managers adapt to available talent, the evolution of player roles, and the risks of over-reliance on superstar talents in modern football.

Today we’re discussing the evolution of goalkeeper distribution. Are teams actually going long more often, and how is it changing the game?Host: Duncan Alexander With: Michael Cox and Mark Carey  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Michael Cox, a tactical analyst known for his detailed insights, joins Mark Carey, a data-driven football writer, and Liam Tharme, a tactical commentator, to discuss the impressive performance of this season's promoted Premier League clubs. They explore how strategic recruitment and a shift towards pragmatic tactics have contributed to their success. The discussion covers the importance of solid defenses, the impact of key recruitment at clubs like Sunderland, and concerns about sustainability for teams like Burnley and Leeds, along with current relegation candidates.

Michael Cox, a tactics writer with deep insights into Guardiola-era football, joins Mark Carey, a tactics analyst who connects statistics to tactical changes, and Liam Tharme, a football tactics journalist. They dive into Pep Guardiola's defensive philosophy change, analyzing his cautious approach against Arsenal. The discussion ranges from whether Arsenal truly dominated, to City’s possession trends and their adaptation of players like Haaland. They also explore the broader tactical implications of Guardiola's evolving strategy and the psychological chess among top managers.

This week’s conversation dives into the startlingly low Premier League goal count, with only 19 goals across 20 matches. The hosts explore how the influx of new signings may be disrupting team cohesion and attacking strategies. They highlight specific examples from clubs like Liverpool, Arsenal, and Chelsea, showcasing integration challenges and tactical shifts. A lively quiz adds fun, while discussions around coaching dynamics, squad size, and player fit provide deeper insights into the current season's sluggish start.

Mark Carey, a data expert at The Athletic, and Liam Tharme, a tactical analyst, delve into the evolution of pressing in football. They explore how teams like Arsenal and PSG excel in sophisticated pressing techniques that focus on collective defense. The duo discusses the strategic shift from simple ‘closing down’ to complex tactics, highlighting metrics for measuring effectiveness and the impact of high pressing on player fitness. They also touch on the importance of adaptability and the role of young coaches in modern football strategies.

Dive into the fascinating world of maverick players and their place in today's tactical systems. Explore the intricate blend of technology and team dynamics as teams gear up for the FIFA World Cup 2026. Discover how video analysis is revolutionizing tactical decisions and player assessments in both men's and women's football. The hosts also tackle loan experiences and the real impact of coaching strategies. Plus, enjoy a fun quiz about England's national squad and their EFL journeys!

Michael Cox, a revered football tactics writer at The Athletic, along with Mark Carey and Liam Tharme, dive into why Ruben Amorim’s 3-4-2-1 system at Manchester United is failing. They discuss the challenges of adapting player roles and the systemic issues in defensive organization. The trio debates whether a rigid system can succeed and highlights the importance of tactical flexibility for team performance. They also compare United's approach to Chelsea's, pondering how tactical familiarity influences success in the Premier League.

Dive into the intriguing journey of academy players stepping up to professional football. Explore the tactical hurdles they face and how mentorship shapes their success. Discover the evolving landscape of youth development, contrasting past legends with today's rising stars. The challenges of Premier League transitions and the vital balance between education and football are also unpacked. With real-life examples, this discussion sheds light on the complexities of nurturing football's future talents.