The Athletic FC Tactics Podcast

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This week's Tactical Preview focuses on one of the biggest games in Premier League history: Liverpool vs Manchester City at Anfield on Sunday.

The matchup has been given more significance after the news of City's guilty ruling, so how will the players fare on the day and will it alter their tactical approach?

Kate Mason is joined by former England goalkeeper Rob Green and The Athletic's tactics writer Liam Tharme to discuss the game at Anfield, plus Manchester United vs Spurs, Arsenal vs Leeds and Brentford's trip to Villa Park.

The panel also discuss the concepts of rest defence and counter-pressing; who does it best and why it is so important.

Host: Kate Mason

Guests: Rob Green, Liam Tharme

Executive Producer: Adam Jones

Producers: Mike Stavrou & Liam Warburton (

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The Tactical Preview becomes the Tactical Review during the international break, as we look back at the first five weeks of Premier League action.

Kate Mason is joined by Rob Green and Duncan Alexander to discuss the trends from the opening stages of the campaign; from expected points, to shot conversion.

The panel also break down who has surprised and disappointed them, chatting Leeds and Everton's solid defences to Spurs' slow start.

Host: Kate Mason

Guests: Rob Green, Duncan Alexander

Executive Producer: Adam Jones

Producers: Mike Stavrou, Liam Warburton, Xavi Bird

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It’s Tactical Preview time, and this week our primary focus is Tottenham Hotspur vs Aston Villa in north London.

Kate Mason is joined by Rob Green and Liam Tharme to break down how Roberto De Zerbi’s side can try and score their first Premier League goal of the season.

Also on the agenda is Bournemouth vs Liverpool, Brentford vs Chelsea and what’s been behind Hull City’s incredible start to the season.

The panel also break down the importance of pressing in the modern era and how it’s changed over time.

Host: Kate Mason

Guests: Rob Green, Liam Tharme

Executive Producer: Guy Clarke

Producers: Mike Stavrou, Lara Sinclair

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Welcome back to the Tactical Preview, this week, our focus is on Arsenal vs Chelsea at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday.

Kate Mason is joined by former England goalkeeper Rob Green and The Athletic’s Tactics writer Liam Tharme to analyse Xabi Alonso’s low-possession style from their first two games and how their potent attack could go about breaking down a stubborn Arsenal side.

The panel also discuss squad building, with multiple clubs going through big changes in personnel over the summer window.

They also look at Everton vs Manchester United, Nottingham Forest vs Spurs and Newcastle vs Bournemouth - and focus on how the three B’s: Bournemouth, Brentford and Brighton, constantly reinvent themselves.

Host: Kate Mason

Guests: Rob Green, Liam Tharme

Executive Producer: Adam Jones

Producers: Mike Stavrou, Liam Warburton

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The Tactical Preview is back and Aston Villa's clash against Arsenal is our primary focus this week.

Host Kate Mason is joined by The Athletic's data writer Thom Harris and former Arsenal midfielder Adrian Clarke to dissect where the game will be won and lost. They focus on Villa's frailties in beating the press, Arsenal's short corners and switches of play. The Athletic's Villa correspondent Jacob Tanswell also drops by to give the lowdown on Villa's midfield struggles in the defeat to Brighton.

The panel also focus on Chelsea vs Brighton, Man United vs Ipswich Town & Coventry City vs Hull City, as well as picking out the clubs who have had a quietly good transfer window.

Host: Kate Mason

Guests: Adrian Clarke, Thom Harris

Executive Producer: Guy Clarke

Producers: Mike Stavrou, Liam Warburton

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Welcome to a brand new offering on The Athletic FC Podcast as we merge with the Athletic FC Tactics Podcast. 

Kate Mason, Rob Green and Liam Tharme are here to run you through the biggest matches from an analytical lens.

This week, we talk tactical trends we expect to take hold this season, while our primary focus is on the big battle at St James’ Park as Newcastle host Liverpool.

The panel also touch on champions Arsenal vs Coventry, Man City vs Bournemouth and Fulham vs Chelsea.

Host: Kate Mason

With: Rob Green and Liam Tharme

Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead

Producer: Mike Stavrou

Videographer: Lara Sinclair

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We’re bringing you a special episode of the podcast this week - it’s time to talk World Cup tactics.

We’ll dive into international tournament prep, opposition analysis and much more!

With a very special guest - assistant coach of the Canada men’s national team, Ewan Sharp.

Host: Michael Bailey

Guests: Joshua Kloke, Liam Tharme & Ewan Sharp

Producer: Mike Stavrou

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With the World Cup right around the corner, we’re discussing the most tactically interesting teams at this summer’s tournament.

Plus, we’ll assess how the favourites are looking — and… how to build a successful World Cup squad.

Host: Michael Bailey

Guests: Michael Cox, Conor O’Neill & Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

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What can we learn from the tactics employed in 2025/26?

Are we too reliant on set pieces (even employing MMA fighters to help!) and how will that shape recruitment this summer?

Plus what makes the ‘perfect ball’ and we look ahead to the Champions League final.

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox & Liam Tharme

Producer: Si Watts

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Pep Guardiola will leave Manchester City this summer after 10 trophy-laden years.

So how did he change the landscape of Premier League tactics? 

And what comes next for Man City?

Host: Michael Bailey

Guests: Michael Cox, Mark Carey & Thom Harris

Producer: Mike Stavrou

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It’s that time of the year, already — our very special alternative Premier League Team of the Season.

Who has impressed us from the sides in the bottom half of the table?

Host: Michael Bailey

Guests: Michael Cox, Mark Carey & Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou, Simon Watts

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This week, we’re reviewing a compelling set of Champions League semi-finals.

From Arsenal’s defensive solidity, to the most complete side in Europe, Paris Saint-Germain. 

Host: Michael Bailey

Guests: Michael Cox, Mark Carey & Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

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With only five players across Europe’s top five leagues on 20 goals or more.

Today we’re asking: where have all the goalscorers gone?

Host: Michael Bailey

Guests: Michael Cox, Mark Carey & Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou, Si Watts

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Bruno Fernandes is on the cusp of breaking the Premier League record for most assists in a single season. 

So why hasn’t the record been beaten in more than 20 years?

And what’s the secret behind Fernandes’ creative genius?

Host: Michael Bailey

Guests: Michael Cox & Mark Carey 

Producer: Mike Stavrou

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This week, there’s only one story in town — the Premier League title clash between Manchester City and Arsenal.

Can Mikel Arteta finally get the better of his old mentor?

Or will Pep Guardiola pull yet another tactical rabbit out of his hat?

Host: Michael Bailey

Guests: Michael Cox, Mark Carey & Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou, Si Watts

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This week, we’re diving into the world of attacking partnerships.

How have roles at the top of the pitch changed over time?

And must all attackers be able to defend?

Host: Matt Davies-Adams

Guests: Michael Cox, Mark Carey & Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou 

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This week, we’re discussing midfield combinations.

From your creators, to destroyers; how do player roles complement each other?

Let’s build a complete midfield!

Host: Michael Bailey

Guests: Michael Cox, Mark Carey & Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou 

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This week, we’re discussing football’s relentless schedule.

What impact is it having on players and matches?

And… can we measure whether football is actually more intense than it used to be?

Host: Michael Bailey

Guests: Michael Cox, Mark Carey & Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou 

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This week, we’re discussing an enthralling round of Champions League Round of 16 ties.

From Premier League struggles and Pep Guardiola’s European record, to how good Bayern Munich and Real Madrid really are.

Host: Michael Bailey

Guests: Michael Cox, Mark Carey & Duncan Alexander

Producer: Mike Stavrou 

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In this episode, we’re discussing whether the appointments of Liam Rosenior at Chelsea, Michael Carrick at Manchester United and Igor Tudor at Tottenham Hotspur have paid off or not.

What have they changed at their respective clubs, and are they better off for it?

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Cerys Jones.

Producer: Steve Hankey.

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This week, we’re discussing football’s new rules!

We’ll talk the increased remit of VAR, throw-in countdowns and our own suggestions for new football laws.

Host: Duncan Alexander

Guests: Michael Cox, Mark Carey

Producer: Mike Stavrou

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It’s mailbag time!

On this episode we’ll discuss:

Wingers, penalty rebounds, tactical fouls and much more!

Host: Michael Bailey

Guests: Michael Cox, Mark Carey, Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

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It’s February — and we have real jeopardy in both the Premier League title race and relegation battle.

So this week, we’ll discuss the tactics we have seen, and will see from the teams at the top and bottom of the table. 

Host: Michael Bailey

Guests: Michael Cox, Mark Carey, Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

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This week — we’re talking tactical trends… from low blocks, to headed clearances and the return of long-range screamers.

Host: Michael Bailey

Guests: Michael Cox, Mark Carey, Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

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This week — we’re diving into the world of weather. 

How do the elements impact what happens on the pitch? 

From the rainy, cold and windy nights at Stoke.

To the scorching heat of the 1994 World Cup in the U.S.

We’ll discuss it all.

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Conor O'Neill

Producer: Mike Stavrou

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Arsenal are top of the Premier League, but only seventh for open play xG.

So is that a Mikel Arteta issue - or a league-wide one?

Host: Duncan Alexander

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Ahmed Walid

Producer: Mike Stavrou

We’re asking you to fill out a quick survey about you and your podcast habits by going to theathletic.com/survey26. Three lucky entries will win $/£100 worth of Amazon vouchers too. So whether you’re a long-time listener or a new one, we want your feedback. Go to: theathletic.com/survey26

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This week, we’re diving into the world of home and away - discussing the tactical differences between performing in front of your own fans, and taking to the road.

What are the key elements to playing on home turf, and how does it impact what happens on the pitch?

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

We’re asking you to fill out a quick survey about you and your podcast habits by going to theathletic.com/survey26. Three lucky entries will win $/£100 worth of Amazon vouchers too. So whether you’re a long-time listener or a new one, we want your feedback. Go to: theathletic.com/survey26 

Research article: Revising home advantage in sport – home advantage mediation (HAM) model

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We’re more than halfway through the Premier League season. 

So this week, we’ll use our good old friend data to assess the main talking point for all 20 clubs.

Host: Duncan Alexander

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey, Liam Tharme

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This week, there’s only one topic in town: Manchester United Football Club.

Ruben Amorim’s gone, so how do they go about replacing him — both in the short, and long term?

And how does any club figure out its managerial appointments, from caretaker and interim bosses to those all-in project managers.

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

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This week — we’re opening our festive mailbag!

We discuss the Christmas tree formation, teams who should change systems, basketball-style substitutions and more.

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

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This week — we’re talking the tactics of squad rotation…

Who are the most and least stable Premier League clubs in how they use their players?

And does stability equal success?

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

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This week — we’re talking about the tactics surrounding player power.

Can stars be given total freedom, or is the collective more important?

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

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On this episode, we run through some of the high profile players to have switched positions in the Premier League recently.

Also - what makes players flexible? And who excels in multiple roles?

Host: Michael Bailey

Guests: Liam Tharme, Michael Cox, Cerys Jones

Producer: Mike Stavrou

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This week — we’re discussing how managers make the jump from a relatively small club, to one of the big guns, and with a particular focus on Thomas Frank at Tottenham Hotspur.

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Duncan Alexander and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

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This week - we’re asking if defence really wins you titles.

Should you build your team around a solid defence — or a free-flowing attack?

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Duncan Alexander and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

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This week, we’re tackling the defensive midfield position.

How has it evolved, who does it best and why are they suddenly scoring loads of goals?

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox and Mark Carey 

Producer: Mike Stavrou

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The Champions League returned this week with some huge clashes and intriguing results. 

So, at the halfway point of the league phase — how are the favourites shaping up, and who has caught our eye on Europe’s biggest stage?

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme

Producers: Mike Stavrou, Ben Green & Steve Hankey

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The defending Premier League champions have lost four league matches in a row.

So, where is it going wrong for Arne Slot’s Liverpool — and crucially, how do they fix their issues?

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

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This season there have been zero instances of teams starting with a 4-4-2 in the Premier League. 

In the late 2000s the majority of teams lined up in a 4-4-2 - but since then, that figure has been steadily dropping.

We find out why.

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Mark Carey, Liam Tharme and Michael Cox

Producer: Mike Stavrou

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Iconic former Manchester City midfielder İlkay Gündoğan sat down with The Athletic's Jordan Campbell to discuss playing under Pep Guardiola and Jurgen Klopp, City's treble-winning team and his future plans.

With: Jordan Campbell & İlkay Gündoğan

Executive Producer: Abi Paterson

Producers: Mike Stavrou and Paul Iliffe

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Thomas Tuchel’s England team selection for the wins over Wales and Latvia got us thinking about star players and their value.

Phil Foden, Jude Bellingham and Jack Grealish were left out of the squad by Tuchel, despite their “star status”.

When building a team, what is the priority; star players, or players who fit the system?

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Mark Carey, Liam Tharme and Michael Cox

Producer: Mike Stavrou

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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 

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Today we tackle the Premier League’s promoted clubs – who collectively, so far this season, are flying. 

How are they doing it and more importantly, can they sustain it?

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

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Pep Guardiola’s defensive tactics in Manchester City’s Premier League draw at Arsenal last weekend caused quite the stir.Was it a one off? Or has Guardiola’s philosophy been slowly changing in front of our eyes?

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

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There were a mere 19 goals across 20 games in the Premier League last weekend.

Which got us thinking — why so few? And is it partly to do with the influx of new signings creating unfamiliarity and uncertainty?

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6633559/2025/09/16/premier-league-signings-goals/ 

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In this special edition of The Athletic FC Tactics podcast - we focus on pressing. What does it involve in the modern game, which teams do it best - and worst - and how has it changed from when it was just called ‘closing down’.

Host Duncan Alexander is joined by Mark Carey and Liam Tharme to discuss.

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

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It’s the international break in men’s football and that means only one thing… mailbag time!

We’re going to answer your questions on all sorts — iPads, subs, mavericks and more!

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou & Paul Iliffe

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This week, we’ll tell you why Ruben Amorim’s 3-4-2-1 system he insists on using at Manchester United, isn’t functioning.

And we’ll look at other examples of managers who seem wedded to just one system - can that approach really work?

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

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This week, we’re charting the journey from academy to first team football.

What are the main tactical challenges in making the jump, and how has the transition changed over time?

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Mark Carey and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

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One week of the Premier League season down, 37 to go.

And today we’re asking whether the English top flight has gone old school… with more long throw-ins than ever, “proper” No.9s and promoted sides threatening to be competitive…

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

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Welcome back to The Athletic FC Tactics Podcast. 

We’re kickstarting the new season with our big Premier League preview show.

We’ll analyse the key tactical talking points, managerial changes and the new entrants to the English top flight.

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

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On episode five of Football Architects we look at how England changed their fortunes from tournament failures to final makers - and in the women's case, winners. Hear from the man who brought about the culture change and brought back pride to the Three Lions.

Every episode will also have a written piece on the website, which we will link here

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Jacob Whitehead and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou and Abi Paterson

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On episode four of Football Architects, we hear from the architects of the data world, who have worked for the biggest football clubs in England.

Every episode will also have a written piece on the website, which we will link below.

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Jacob Whitehead and Mark Carey

Producer: Mike Stavrou

https://pod.fo/e/2fe33b 

https://pod.fo/e/2fe34e 

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On episode three of Football Architects, we’re focusing on international football's great over-performers, Croatia.

We’ll hear from Romeo Jozak, the former academy head and technical director of Dinamo Zagreb and technical director of Croatia from 2013-17.

Every episode will also have a written piece on the website, which we will link below.

https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6445372/2025/07/17/football-architects-croatia-football-overperformers

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Jacob Whitehead and Juraj Vrdoljak

Producer: Mike Stavrou

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On episode two of Football Architects, we’re focusing on the rise that took a stagnant Belgium to number one in FIFA’s world rankings.

We’ll hear about how they established a footballing DNA, and created a team of legendary players such as Eden Hazard, Kevin De Bruyne, and many more. 

Every episode will also have a written piece on the website, which we will link below.

https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6445749/2025/07/10/football-architects-inside-belgium-rise-world-number-one/

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Jacob Whitehead and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

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Welcome to Football Architects - a summer series for The Athletic FC Tactics Podcast. 

Over the next five weeks, we’ll tell the stories of esteemed footballing nations and clubs, speaking to the unsung heroes who changed history.

Today’s episode is focused on Ajax’s rebirth and how the club was rebuilt in the image of legendary figure Johan Cruyff.

Host Michael Bailey will be joined by The Athletic’s Jacob Whitehead and a number of our tactics writers. We’ll also be hearing excerpts of Jacob's interviews with key figures who were at the forefront of these projects.

On this episode, we hear from Ruben Jongkind, former head of talent development at Ajax, and the club’s former head talent recruitment, Jasper van Leeuwen.

Every episode will also have a written piece on the website, which we will link below.

https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6445365/2025/07/03/football-architects-rebuilding-ajax-johan-cruyff/

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Jacob Whitehead and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

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On this final show of the season, we’re bringing you the eagerly anticipated listener mailbag.

We’ll focus on strikerless systems, wing-backs vs full-backs and much, much more. 

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

On behalf of the entire Tactics team, thank you for all of your entries and your support this season. Please complete our listener survey: https://forms.gle/atPcQnohDvRWQG2M7

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On this week’s show, we’re reviewing the 2024-25 season - looking at statistical trends across the Premier League. 

We’ll also focus on the teams who impressed us, and those who disappointed us. 

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

Listener survey: https://forms.gle/atPcQnohDvRWQG2M7

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In this special edition of The Athletic FC Tactics podcast - Duncan Alexander, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme preview the Champions League final between Inter and PSG.

Two teams with contrasting styles meet in the final in Munich - so we break down how we think this one might play out.

Host: Duncan Alexander

With: Mark Carey and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou and Liam Warburton

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In this episode, it’s alternative team of the season time!

To remind you of the rules, instead of focusing on the top teams - we all pick an eleven with one player from each of the bottom 10 teams in the Premier League table (as it stands on Thursday 22nd May) and then one “wildcard” player - basically one other player from the bottom half clubs.

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme.

Producers: Mike Stavrou and Steve Hankey.

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In this episode, we’re talking Italian managers.

Specifically… Carlo Ancelotti and Antonio Conte.

Ancelotti will be joining the Brazilian men’s national team this summer, drawing his second spell at Real Madrid to a close.

Meanwhile, Antonio Conte could be about to win the Scudetto with a third Italian club… potentially adding Napoli to his successes with Juventus and Internazionale.

Broadly speaking, Ancelotti has been more successful in European competitions — with Conte having a better success rate bringing home the domestic bacon.

But is there something in their tactical philosophies that has caused this? That’s what we talk about in this episode.

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme.

Producer: Steve Hankey.

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On this week’s show, we’re focused on the second legs of the Champions League semi-finals.

We’ll analyse a tie for the ages - Inter’s 7-6 aggregate win over Barcelona. And also PSG’s victory against Arsenal.

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Mark Carey and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

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On this week’s show, we analyse the first legs of the Champions League semi-finals.

We’ll discover how PSG’s press nullified Arsenal, and discuss probably the game of the season so far — Barca’s thriller against Inter.

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Mark Carey and Thom Harris

Producer: Mike Stavrou

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This week we’re looking at an incredibly tight race in the Premier League to seal European football for next season.

And we’ll discuss which of those teams are best set-up for success.

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Mark Carey and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

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In this episode, we look back at the Champions League quarter finals. 

We also look ahead to the semi-finals and discuss the merits of Arsenal, Paris St Germain, Internazionale and Barcelona.

If you want more on Inter, listen here - https://pod.fo/e/2296a4 

For our bonus PSG episode, listen here - https://pod.fo/e/2c3d48

Or watch here - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vB5AzIuR_cU 

For a bit on Barcelona, listen here - https://pod.fo/e/27b242 

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Liam Tharme, Mark Carey, Thom Harris and Michael Cox.

Producer: Steve Hankey.

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This week we’re focusing on French footballing identity.

And we’ll attempt to discover why there is a lack of French managers across Europe’s top leagues.

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey, Tom Williams

Producer: Mike Stavrou

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this bonus edition of The Athletic FC Tactics podcast - Alex Barker and Liam Tharme tell you all you need to know about Luis Enrique’s PSG.

They’ve just wrapped up Ligue 1 and could become the first side to win the title unbeaten.

They’re also in the final of the Coupe de France and face Aston Villa in the quarter-finals of the Champions League this week.

So how has Enrique made them so dominant?

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This week… we’re talking about Nuno Espirito Santo’s Champions League-chasing Nottingham Forest.

We’ll break down how a team who flirted with relegation last season have become one of the most difficult sides to play against in the division. 

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

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This week we’re focusing our attention on the metrics which win you football matches - other than goals and assists.

We’ll talk second balls, duels and explain what coaches are actually watching on those tiny screens on the touchline.

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

We want to hear about your podcast habits. Go to theathletic.com/athletic/survey25 to fill out a short survey and be in with the chance of winning £/$100 Amazon vouchers

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In this episode, we’re focusing our attention on international football.

German head coach Thomas Tuchel takes charge of his first games as England manager this week. 

So we’re going to reflect on some of the great, and not so great, examples of foreign international managers and ask whether the impact they had in the past still applies today?

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Duncan Alexander.

Producer: Steve Hankey.

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We’re focusing our attention on the Champions League.

This season’s competition is at the quarter-final stages — giving us the perfect moment to look back on what’s happened and what the rest of the Champions League has in store for us.

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

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This week we are breaking down the mechanics of set pieces.

Are they a reliable and consistent source of goals, how do you stop them, and which teams are the best or worst at them?

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

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This week we are looking at how positions and roles on the pitch have changed over the past five years.

For example, what do No.8s do differently now and how have the No.9s responsibilities changed?

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

Building the ideal modern day centre-back: https://pod.fo/e/2ac7ed 

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We have a special guest with us - Paul Power from sports data company, SkillCorner, joins us to chat about how clubs really use data in recruitment and analysis

Plus… what the future could hold in terms of football’s relationship with AI?

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Paul Power

Producer: Mike Stavrou

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This week we’re diving into the world of centre-backs! 

What traits do they need in today’s game, what does a good partnership now look like… and how has the role changed?

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

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This week we are analysing the winter transfer window signings who could have a big, tactical impact on their clubs over the rest of this season and beyond.

We go for some obvious ones — but we’ll also talk about moves you may have missed! 

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Mark Carey, Liam Tharme, Thom Harris and Michael Cox

Producer: Mike Stavrou

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This week we are bringing you a Tactics staple - a key statistic for every team in the Premier League. 

From Liverpool’s direct attacks to Crystal Palace’s runs in behind - we have you covered. 

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

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This week we are all about the tactically interesting teams you should be looking out for throughout the rest of 2025.

What is it about them that has intrigued us; is there an up and coming manager doing something different, and who are the hidden gems in their squad? 

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox,Thom Harris and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

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This week… we’re dipping our toes into the world of pundit cliches.

Should you always shoot across goal, should goalkeepers always save a shot at their near post… and is Zonal Marking any good - the defensive corner tactic, that is. Not the Tactics podcast legend that is Mr Michael Cox. 

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

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This week… we’ve had SO MANY brilliant, insightful messages that it was about time to got stuck into our second Tactics Mailbag of the season.

So today we’re talking…

The importance of “Premier League experience” for January signings, when do new managers get “found out”, left-footed central-midfielders and much more!

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

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In this episode, we navigate through the feast of festive football. 

With so many games played in such a short space of time, we pore over the tactical tidbits that have emerged.

From Fulham in a back five to Chelsea leaking goals to yet another weakness in Manchester United.

We also look at Arsenal’s Saka-shaped hole, which type of passes Manchester City seem unwilling to play and much more.

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Thom Harris.

Producer: Steve Hankey.

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This is the last show of the year, so the perfect time to look back on the tactical highlights of 2024.

We’re talking trends, teams, players, standout moments and of course, our tweak of the YEAR!

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Thom Harris

Producer: Mike Stavrou

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This week we’re looking at the Premier League teams who are punching above their weight… we’re talking Nottingham Forest, Brighton, Bournemouth, Brentford, Fulham and maybe a few others.

How do these clubs build their status in the English top flight and climb the table in the years after promotion?

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

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This week we’re delving into the world of game state, and how tactics change whether a team is winning, losing or drawing.

And… can we come up with what the most dangerous scoreline reallyis?

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

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It’s Liverpool against Manchester City at Anfield in the Premier League this weekend — and given what these two clubs have been up to recently, there’s plenty to dissect, on the present and what we may get down the road. 

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Thom Harris

Producer: Mike Stavrou

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In light of Manchester City’s attempts to cope without Ballon d’Or winner Rodri, and Arsenal’s struggles without their captain Martin Odegaard, we’re asking — how do teams cope without their star players?

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Liam Tharme, Thom Harris, Art de Roché

Producer: Mike Stavrou

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In this episode, we talk about back three formations.

Ruben Amorim loves them, and he’ll be the boss at Manchester United from next week. 

And Simone Inzaghi’s Internazionale, also featuring a back three, beat Arsenal this week, had already drawn with Man City; and are yet to concede a Champions League goal.

So are back threes back? Or is this just a brief moment back in the sun?

And can Manchester United’s current squad adapt to Amorim’s favoured formation?

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme.

Producer: Steve Hankey.

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This week, we’re focusing on Barcelona after an incredible pair of results for Hansi Flick’s side.

Barcelona’s 4-0 win over Real Madrid in El Clasico came just three days after their 4-1 victory over Bayern Munich in the Champions League. Not bad!

So, how has Hansi Flick done it? Let’s find out!

Host: Matt Davies-Adams

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Thom Harris

Producer: Mike Stavrou

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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 Bailey

With: Mark Carey, Liam Tharme and Thom Harris

Producer: Mike Stavrou

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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 Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

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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 Bailey

With: Seb Stafford-Bloor, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

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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 Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme 

Producer: Mike Stavrou

https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5793283/2024/09/26/premier-league-takeaways-five-games/

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This week, we’re focusing on the world of football data and whether it’s had the profound impact on the game — on and off the pitch — that everyone thinks it has.

So, has data actually changed football?

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme 

Producer: Mike Stavrou

https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5756088/2024/09/11/how-has-data-changed-football/

https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5697684/2024/09/03/football-analytics-uk-evolution/

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This week, Michael Cox’s excellent article on the evolution of Mohamed Salah into a creative force got our minds whirring.

How do elite players alter their style and approach, as they reach the latter stages of their careers?

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Ahmed Walid

Producer: Mike Stavrou

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Chelsea’s somewhat chaotic attempt at squad building got us thinking about how best to actually go about assembling a Premier League squad.

Matt Davies-Adams and the panel try to find some answers.

Host: Matt Davies-Adams

With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam Tharme 

Producer: Mike Stavrou

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One week into 2024/25, we’re attempting to circumnavigate the knee-jerk and catch the tactical teething problems.

We look at how the top teams fared and what transfers are still needed, plus various Premier League strikers.

Host: Michael Bailey 

With: Michael Cox, Thom Harris and Liam Tharme 

Producer: Mike Stavrou

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It’s part two of our own Premier League preview ahead of the 2024-25 season — where we look at the tactical conundrums facing each team in the English top flight.

Last week, our groupings were… title contenders, dark horses and surprise packages. If you don’t know who we shoehorned into each of those, then go have a listen back.

This week we have… European hopefuls, relegation candidates and the best of the rest.

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Mark Carey, Michael Cox and Thom Harris

Producer: Mike Stavrou

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On this first episode of the new season, we are previewing the upcoming 2024/2025 Premier League campaign - with a particular focus on the tactical conundrums facing each team.

We’ll split this into two parts - covering 10 teams this week and the rest on our next show.

This week, we look at the title contenders, dark horses and surprise packages.

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Mark Carey, Duncan Alexander and Thom Harris

Producer: Mike Stavrou

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