The Athletic FC Tactics Podcast

Michael Cox, a respected football tactics writer, joins Mark Carey, a data journalist specializing in squad management, and Liam Tharme, a tactics expert, to explore Premier League squad stability. They dive into the impact of rotation on team performance, dissect Chelsea's heavy rotation strategy, and highlight Crystal Palace as the most settled squad under Oliver Glasner. The discussion also touches on whether deep squads lead to better results and if Pep Guardiola’s recent tactical choices reflect a shift to steadier lineups.

This week, Michael Cox, a renowned football tactics writer, joins Mark Carey, a data journalist, and Liam Tharme, a tactics analyst, to delve into the dynamics of player power, focusing on Mohamed Salah. They discuss whether managers should adapt their strategies for star players and the importance of squad versatility. The panel examines Salah's role at Liverpool, analyzing tactical adaptations that protect him and the effects of opponents targeting his defensive efforts. They also debate if Salah's perceived decline is due to age or tactical shifts.

Join Michael Cox, a respected football tactics writer, Liam Tharme, a keen contributor on positional flexibility, and newcomer Cerys Jones as they explore the intriguing world of versatile players in the Premier League. They discuss Dominik Szoboszlai's transformative role at Liverpool and Arsenal's unique approach to converting centre-backs into full-backs. The panel also delves into the adaptability of players like Reece James and Alex Iwobi, highlighting their strategic importance and the creative opportunities they unlock for their teams.

Liam Tharme, a football tactics writer and analyst, Michael Cox, a revered tactical expert, and Duncan Alexander, a data specialist, dive into the challenges of managers like Thomas Frank stepping up to larger clubs like Tottenham Hotspur. They discuss Spurs' mixed early results under Frank, concerns about squad fit and injuries, and the defensive issues laid bare by high-profile matches. The panel also explores the successful transitions of managers like Pochettino and the pitfalls faced by others, shedding light on what truly makes a managerial step-up successful.

Liam Tharme, a tactical analyst, dives into Arsenal's impressive defensive stats and player attributes. Duncan Alexander, a football data expert, shares insights on historical trends and the challenge of matching Chelsea's record-breaking defense from 2004-05. Michael Cox, a tactics writer, discusses the importance of goal difference and balance between defense and attack. The trio debates if strong defenses win titles and reflects on how modern teams must score consistently while managing tactical intricacies. A thought-provoking discussion on the evolution of football strategy!

Michael Cox, a tactical writer for The Athletic, and Mark Carey, a football analyst, dive into the fascinating evolution of defensive midfielders. They analyze how players like Claude Makélélé transformed the role and discuss why modern midfielders are increasingly scoring goals. Insights on high pressing and its impact on attacking play highlight the strategic shifts in football. They also explore player examples, such as Moises Caicedo and Ryan Gravenberch, showcasing the new tactical freedom and goal threats from this position.

Mark Carey, a tactics writer at The Athletic, Liam Tharme, a football analyst, and Michael Cox, an experienced tactics journalist, dissect the latest drama in the Champions League. They explore Liverpool's tactical reset against Real Madrid, discuss whether their new compactness can withstand Man City's attacks, and analyze Bayern's aggressive press that led to victory over PSG. The trio also examines Barcelona's defensive woes and celebrates surprising performances from teams like Newcastle and Galatasaray in this thrilling European landscape.

Mark Carey, a tactics writer for The Athletic, Liam Tharme, a football tactician, and Michael Cox, an experienced football journalist, discuss Liverpool's recent struggles. They delve into tactical breakdowns, emphasizing Liverpool's poor starts and the challenges of new signings adapting to the system. The guests analyze pressing issues, the impact of fixture congestion, and whether a shift to a back three could stabilize performance. They also ponder if this season is a transition year for the club and explore Mohamed Salah's evolving role in the team.

Michael Cox, a tactical analyst, discusses the historical context and downfall of the 4-4-2 formation. Liam Tharme analyzes modern coaching implications, emphasizing the need for fluidity and adaptability over rigidity. Mark Carey highlights successful past uses at clubs like Manchester United and Arsenal, while noting the impact of globalization and evolving player profiles. The panel debates why the formation has faded in today's game, exploring its strengths and weaknesses, and considers whether variations still hold relevance.

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.