Podcast
The Athletic FC Tactics Podcast
Hosted by The Athletic · EN
Hosted by Michael Bailey, revered football tactics writer Michael Cox is joined by Mark Carey, Liam Tharme and more of The Athletic's brightest tactics and data department to break down the tactical and technical details behind the biggest footballing stories each week - assessing the latest trends, systems, players, managers and all manner of statistics in order to give you a deeper understanding of the game.
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32episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Canada at the World Cup: Can their tactics spring a surprise?
2w ago00:44:01Tap to summarizeWe’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/privacy for more information.
Transcribe →The World Cup's most tactically interesting teams
3w ago00:35:45Tap to summarizeWith 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.
Transcribe →2025/26 Tactical learnings & set piece takeaways
4w ago00:40:09Tap to summarizeWhat 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.
Transcribe →How Pep Guardiola transformed the Premier League
May 2100:36:08Tap to summarizePep 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.
Transcribe →Alternative Team of the Season
May 1400:40:55Tap to summarizeIt’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.
Transcribe →PSG’s brilliance & Arsenal’s immense defence
May 700:33:06Tap to summarizeThis 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.
Transcribe →Where have all the goalscorers gone?
Apr 3000:44:10Tap to summarizeWith 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.
Transcribe →Bruno Fernandes: Creative genius
Apr 2300:31:57Tap to summarizeBruno 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.
Transcribe →Man City vs Arsenal: The lowest quality title decider in years?
Apr 1600:48:37Tap to summarizeThis 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.
Transcribe →Who has the best attack in Europe?
Apr 900:34:25Tap to summarizeThis 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.
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