The Athletic FC Tactics Podcast
Hosted by Michael Bailey, this podcast features football tactics writer Michael Cox alongside Mark Carey, Liam Tharme, and other members of The Athletic's tactics and data team. They break down the tactical and technical details behind the biggest football stories each week, assessing trends, systems, players, managers, and statistics to provide a deeper understanding of the game.
Episodes
Weekend Preview: Leeds vs Man United + Spurs vs Coventry
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Liverpool vs Man City preview + a guide to 'rest defence'
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
Premier League trends, surprises + disappointments so far
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&#
Spurs vs Aston Villa + the importance of pressing
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 seas
Arsenal vs Chelsea + how to rebuild a squad
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
Villa vs Arsenal + who has had a quietly good transfer window?
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
Newcastle vs Liverpool + early season tactical trends
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
Canada at the World Cup: Can their tactics spring a surprise?
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 BaileyGuests: Joshua Kloke, Liam Tharme & Ewan SharpProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/priva
The World Cup's most tactically interesting teams
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 BaileyGuests: Michael Cox, Conor O’Neill & Liam TharmeProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2025/26 Tactical learnings & set piece takeaways
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 BaileyWith: Michael Cox & Liam TharmeProducer: Si Watts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
How Pep Guardiola transformed the Premier League
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 BaileyGuests: Michael Cox, Mark Carey & Thom HarrisProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Alternative Team of the Season
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 BaileyGuests: Michael Cox, Mark Carey & Liam TharmeProducer: Mike Stavrou, Simon Watts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
PSG’s brilliance & Arsenal’s immense defence
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 BaileyGuests: Michael Cox, Mark Carey & Liam TharmeProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Where have all the goalscorers gone?
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 BaileyGuests: Michael Cox, Mark Carey & Liam TharmeProducer: Mike Stavrou, Si Watts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Bruno Fernandes: Creative genius
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 BaileyGuests: Michael Cox & Mark Carey Producer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Man City vs Arsenal: The lowest quality title decider in years?
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 BaileyGuests: Michael Cox, Mark Carey & Liam TharmeProducer: Mike Stavrou, Si Watts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information
Who has the best attack in Europe?
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-AdamsGuests: Michael Cox, Mark Carey & Liam TharmeProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Man United & England: How to build a complete midfield
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 BaileyGuests: Michael Cox, Mark Carey & Liam TharmeProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
The impact of football’s relentless schedule
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 BaileyGuests: Michael Cox, Mark Carey & Liam TharmeProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Have Premier League clubs really struggled in Europe?
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 BaileyGuests: Michael Cox, Mark Carey & Duncan AlexanderProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Varying fortunes of recent managerial hires
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 BaileyWith: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Cerys Jones.Producer: Steve Hankey. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy fo
Are football's new laws overcomplicating the game?
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 AlexanderGuests: Michael Cox, Mark CareyProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
The evolution of wingers, club DNA & tactical fouls
It’s mailbag time!On this episode we’ll discuss:Wingers, penalty rebounds, tactical fouls and much more!Host: Michael BaileyGuests: Michael Cox, Mark Carey, Liam TharmeProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Arsenal's attacking woes & a proper relegation battle
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 BaileyGuests: Michael Cox, Mark Carey, Liam TharmeProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Premier League trends: How to break down low blocks
This week — we’re talking tactical trends… from low blocks, to headed clearances and the return of long-range screamers.Host: Michael BaileyGuests: Michael Cox, Mark Carey, Liam TharmeProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
A cold, windy night in Stoke: How weather impacts football
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 BaileyWith: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Conor O'NeillProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Does the Premier League have an open-play goal problem?
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 AlexanderWith: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Ahmed WalidProducer: Mike StavrouWe’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. S
No sweet home: Is 'home advantage' fading?
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 BaileyWith: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam TharmeProducer: Mike StavrouWe’re asking you to fill out a quick survey about
A stat for every Premier League club
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 AlexanderWith: Michael Cox, Mark Carey, Liam Tharme Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
How to fix Man United in the short term
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 BaileyWith: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam TharmeProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acas
Underrated Premier League players & formation changes
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 BaileyWith: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam TharmeProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Who has the most settled squad in the Premier League?
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 BaileyWith: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam TharmeProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Has Salah actually declined?
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 BaileyWith: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam TharmeProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Who are the Premier League's most versatile players?
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 BaileyGuests: Liam Tharme, Michael Cox, Cerys JonesProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Can Spurs and Frank make it work?
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 BaileyWith: Michael Cox, Duncan Alexander and Liam TharmeProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Have Arsenal built the Premier League’s best ever defence?
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 BaileyWith: Michael Cox, Duncan Alexander and Liam TharmeProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Why are defensive midfielders scoring so many goals?
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 BaileyWith: Michael Cox and Mark Carey Producer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Champions League notebook
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 BaileyWith: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam TharmeProducers: Mike Stavrou, Ben Green & Steve Hankey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more inform
How to fix Liverpool
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 BaileyWith: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam TharmeProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
A guide to the 4-4-2 formation
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 BaileyWith: Mark Carey, Liam Tharme and Michael CoxProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Gundogan interview: Klopp vs Guardiola, Man City's treble & more
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 GündoğanExecutive Producer: Abi PatersonProducers: Mike Stavrou and Paul Iliffe Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Does Jude Bellingham get into England's best side?
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 BaileyWith: Mark Carey, Liam Tharme and Michael CoxProducer:
Why goalkeepers are going long
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.
Why the promoted sides are so much better this season
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 BaileyWith: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam TharmeProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Has Guardiola actually changed his philosophy?
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 BaileyWith: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam TharmeProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Why has this season started so slowly?
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 BaileyWith: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam TharmeProducer: Mike Stavrouhttps://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6633559/2025/09/16/premier-league-signings-goals/ Hosted on Acast.
Pressing 101: Why Arsenal and PSG are so good
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 BaileyWith: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam TharmeProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on A
Mavericks, Donnarumma & are Arsenal too cautious?
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 BaileyWith: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam TharmeProducer: Mike Stavrou & Paul Iliffe Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Why Amorim's Man United system isn't working
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 BaileyWith: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam TharmeProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Dowman and Ngumoha: The pathway for academy players
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 BaileyWith: Mark Carey and Liam TharmeProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Long throws & tall No.9s: The Premier League goes old school
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 BaileyWith: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam TharmeProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
New-look Liverpool & pragmatic Spurs: Premier League preview
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 BaileyWith: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam TharmeProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Creating the England DNA
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 hereHost: Michael BaileyWith: Jacob Whitehead and Liam Tharme
The secrets behind football's data pioneers
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 BaileyWith: Jacob Whitehead and Mark CareyProducer: Mike Stavrouhttps://pod.fo/e/2fe33b https://pod.fo/e/2fe34e Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/p
Forging Croatia's Golden Generation
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/fo
How Belgium marched to world number one
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/a
How Cruyff inspired Ajax's rebirth
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 Athle
Are strikerless formations the future?
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 BaileyWith: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam TharmeProducer: Mike StavrouOn behalf of the entire Tactics team, thank you for all of your entries and your support this season. Please complete our listener s
Was the 2024/25 Premier League season boring?
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 BaileyWith: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam TharmeProducer: Mike StavrouListener survey: https://forms.gle/atPcQnohDvRWQG2M7 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more informat
Champions League final preview
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 AlexanderWith: Mark Carey and Liam TharmeProducer: Mike Stavrou and Liam Warburton Hosted on Acast. See ac
Alternative team of the Premier League season 24/25
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 BaileyWith: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and
Ancelotti, Conte and the tactics of Italian managers
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,
Arsenal’s long throws & the best knockout tie ever?
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 BaileyWith: Mark Carey and Liam TharmeProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Yamal's new heights & PSG's press
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 BaileyWith: Mark Carey and Thom HarrisProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Which teams deserve Champions League football next season?
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 BaileyWith: Mark Carey and Liam TharmeProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Champions League final four
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/2c3d48Or watch here - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vB5AzIuR_cU For a bit on Barcelon
Where have all the French managers gone?
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 BaileyWith: Michael Cox, Mark Carey, Tom WilliamsProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
How PSG became Champions League favourites
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?
How Forest have outsmarted the Premier League’s elite
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 BaileyWith: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam TharmeProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
How to win a football match
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 BaileyWith: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam TharmeProducer: Mike StavrouWe want to hear about your podcast habits. Go to theathletic.com/athletic/survey
Foreign International Managers
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 BaileyWith: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Dun
Who are the Champions League favourites now?
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 BaileyWith: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam TharmeProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Are set pieces more important than ever?
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 BaileyWith: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam TharmeProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
How every position has evolved
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 BaileyWith: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam TharmeProducer: Mike StavrouBuilding the ideal modern day centre-back: https://pod.fo/e/2ac7ed Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more
How data and AI is shaping football
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 analysisPlus… what the future could hold in terms of football’s relationship with AI?Host: Michael BaileyWith: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Paul PowerProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Building the ideal modern day centre-back
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 BaileyWith: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam TharmeProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Which January signing will have the biggest impact?
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 BaileyWith: Mark Carey, Liam Tharme, Thom Harris and Michael CoxProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information
Premier League analysed: A stat for every club
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 BaileyWith: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam TharmeProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tactically interesting teams to watch in 2025
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 BaileyWith: Michael Cox,Thom Harris and Liam TharmeProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for
Myth-busting pundit cliches
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 BaileyWith: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam TharmeProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See aca
