The Athletic FC Tactics Podcast

Join Michael Cox, a seasoned football tactics writer; Mark Carey, an expert in tactics and data analytics; and Liam Tharme, a specialist in football analysis, as they dissect how teams manage their strategies based on game states. They delve into the crucial nuances of maintaining a lead, especially the risks of a 2-0 advantage. The discussion highlights the psychological impacts on players, tactical adjustments under pressure, and the implications of late-game strategy changes, offering valuable insights for football enthusiasts.

Join football tacticians Michael Cox, Mark Carey, and Thom Harris as they dive into the high-stakes clash between Liverpool and Manchester City at Anfield. They analyze Liverpool's tactical evolution and its key players, like Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah. The trio discusses City’s struggles, including recent match challenges and the impact of key player absences. Expect a keen insight into how both teams' strategies may shift as they aim for dominance in the title race.

Liam Tharme and Thom Harris, both tactical analysts, join Arsenal writer Art de Roché to discuss the challenges teams face without their star players. They dive into how Manchester City copes without Rodri, emphasizing his critical role in maintaining team structure. The trio also examines Arsenal's performance in Martin Odegaard's absence, noting the increased predictability in their attack. They explore strategic adjustments, the impact of injuries on team morale, and the evolution of young players stepping up in tough times. Expect fascinating insights and real-life examples!

Michael Cox, a football tactics writer, joins Mark Carey, a data analytics expert, and Liam Tharme, a commentary specialist, for an insightful discussion on back three formations. They delve into how managers like Ruben Amorim and Simone Inzaghi successfully employ these tactics. The trio explores whether back threes are experiencing a revival and if Manchester United can adjust under Amorim’s system. Additionally, they analyze the challenges and adaptations teams face when implementing this dynamic formation in modern football.

Michael Cox, a football tactics writer for The Athletic, joins Mark Carey and Thom Harris, both tactics and data analytics writers, to dive into Barcelona's remarkable resurgence under coach Hansi Flick. They discuss the team's tactical transformations that led to stunning victories against rivals like Real Madrid and Bayern Munich. Key topics include the emergence of young talents, aggressive play, and how Barcelona is evolving beyond the Messi era. They also explore the tactical struggles faced by Real Madrid, offering a comprehensive view of football's shifting landscape.

This week, we’re focusing on Liverpool and their almost perfect start under new manager Arne Slot.It’s been a record-busting beginning for Liverpool… so how has the transition from legendary manager Jurgen Klopp gone so smoothly at Anfield, and what are the challenges that now lie ahead for Slot?Host: Michael BaileyWith: Mark Carey, Liam Tharme and Thom HarrisProducer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, we’re focusing on the promoted sides in the Premier League. Where are their structural shortcomings, what is the plan that secures survival and is it now harder than ever to achieve it?Host: Michael BaileyWith: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam TharmeProducer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, we’re focusing on Bundesliga title rivals Bayer Leverkusen and Bayern Munich. The evolution of these two sides under the coaching of Xabi Alonso and Vincent Kompany respectively, got us thinking… do some managers require a team of elite players in order to succeed?Host: Michael BaileyWith: Seb Stafford-Bloor, Mark Carey and Liam TharmeProducer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, we bring you our first, long-awaited listener mailbag! You’ve been sending in some excellent questions and ideas since we came back for the new season — and now is the time for us to discuss them! So, the topics on today’s agenda include: Angeball 2.0, the new No.10 role and tactical revolutions at smaller clubs.Host: Michael BaileyWith: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme Producer: Mike Stavrouhttps://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5793283/2024/09/26/premier-league-takeaways-five-games/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join Michael Cox, a football analysis expert, Mark Carey, a sports analytics authority, and Liam Tharme, a commentator on football data, as they unpack the actual impact of analytics on the game. They debate whether data's influence is overstated while discussing its evolution and cultural significance. The trio examines how analytics shape shooting tactics and decision-making, emphasizing the balance between data and traditional methods. They also highlight successful case studies like Brentford and Brighton, showcasing the necessity of context in data's application.