The Shirtless Plantain Show unites football, banter, seriousness and brings a fresh voice to the football world. Coming from immigrant backgrounds mixed with western culture, we are a football collective that does not play by the rules and colors outside the lines. Tune in to hear genuine stories and unique perspectives. We have conversations with amazing guests, using football as our canvas to paint stories from a unique lens.
The Shirtless Plantain Show podcast is an absolute gem for soccer enthusiasts who are tired of the usual drama and mundane topics that dominate sports media. When I'm looking to hear about what's really going on in the game, without people getting caught up in their emotions over trivial matters, this podcast is my go-to. I was initially drawn to the show because of their YouTube series, and I have to say, it's just as entertaining and enjoyable in audio format.
One of the best aspects of The Shirtless Plantain Show is the banter and camaraderie among Tosun and the crew. Their chemistry shines through in every episode, making it feel like you're sitting down with friends discussing your favorite sport. They manage to strike a perfect balance between insightful analysis and lighthearted fun. It's refreshing to listen to a podcast where hosts don't take themselves too seriously but still provide valuable insight into the game.
Another standout feature of this podcast is their ability to offer a unique perspective on soccer. Unlike many other shows that regurgitate the same conversations and topics, The Shirtless Plantain Show takes a fresh approach to discussing the sport. They bring on interesting guests who offer diverse viewpoints and inject new ideas into the conversation. It keeps each episode exciting and ensures that listeners are constantly exposed to different angles of analysis.
Now, as for the worst aspect of this podcast, there honestly isn't much to criticize. Occasionally, there may be moments when certain topics or discussions don't resonate with every listener, but that's simply subjective preference. The overall quality of content provided by The Shirtless Plantain Show outweighs any minor missteps or personal differences one may have with specific episodes or segments.
In conclusion, The Shirtless Plantain Show is a must-listen podcast for any soccer fan seeking an authentic and enjoyable experience. With their fantastic banter, unique point of view on the game, and intriguing guests, Tosun and the crew have created a show that stands out from the rest. It's a reckless and fun addition to any podcast rotation, especially for those who support Arsenal. Give it a listen, and you won't be disappointed!
Coach reacts to Arsenal's win in the Basque Country on this latest edition of Coach's Corner.Tap In!
Your SPS Weekend Review's back. Join the fellas for their customary trip around the top 4 leagues AND the Super League, featuring Bundesliga exasperation, the Derby d'Italia, Nico Pepe's charmed life, Liverpool's luck, Champions League chatter, and so much more!Tap in!
Man Utd lost to Man City, have 4 points from 12 so far this season, and have a negative goal difference.Tosin and Tomi are officially out on Ruben Amorim, and they dissect tactics, quotes, and try to make sense of what's next for Man Utd; perhaps a coach that isn't stubborn and cowardly?This state of affairs with Ruben cannot keep going on much longer, right?Tap in!
Gooners, join the crew for a victory lap on the Noni Madueke signing… oh and Arsenal comfortably beat Nottingham Forest 3-0. Considering all the absences and new faces, the day went almost about as well as we could've expected (besides the Captain reinjuring that shoulder), and we discussed it all.Tap in!
Your SPS Weekend Review's here! Join the lads for ruminations on World Cup qualifiers, including Nigeria and Gennaro Gattuso crazy Italy staying alive, Mauricio Pochettino running out of time to make the USMNT work, and all the random bits and bobs from the wider world of footy. Tap in!
Nigeria beat Rwanda 1-0 to keep their hopes alive for qualifying for the 2026 World Cup!The game was more frustrating than pretty. Join Tosin and Tomi as they navigate Nigeria's World Cup 2026 campaign so far. They analyze the tactics and give flowers to Alex Iwobi and Ola Aina, alongside the pros and cons of baggy shorts.Tap in!
You know the drill. The transfer window is finally closed and an Interlull awaits, so Tosin and Deen ran through as many of the "notable" transfers they could within an hour. Tighten your seatbelts and join us for a wild one.Tap in!
Another weekend, another weekend review!Join Tosin, Coach, and Deen for the customary trip around the 5 major European football leagues before the first scheduled international break. Joao Neves gets his flowers, Thomas Frank gets a bit of a kicking (but we kick Pep even harder), and Tosin's 'Third Eye' realizes real lies.'Tap in!
Arsenal conceded from a Szoboszlai wonder-freekick to lose at Anfield, in what was otherwise a decent performance from the lads. Join the full crew for a review of the loss against Liverpool, with a detailed debate about Mikel's controversial lineup choices and his slower than usual substitutions. We covered the game action too.Tap in!
Man Utd finally got their first 3 points of the season! It was a sweaty, nervous win against Burnley. But a win is a win, right?Join Tosin and his guest, Brent, as they navigate the win, discuss Ruben's future, discuss the midfield woes, goalkeeper issues, and a whole lot more. Utd fans, it'll get better… hopefully.Tap in!
Man Utd followed up their 1-0 home loss to Arsenal with a 1-1 draw at Craven Cottage and a loss to Grimbsy Town. 3 matches, no wins and the season looks bleak! Do you know where Grimbsy is? Do you know what town that is?! HARAM!Join Tosin and Coach as they raise the (early) white flag on Ruben Amorim's Man Utd's tenure, provide some insight into Grimbsy, and discuss why Xaxi might be next up for Man Utd.Tap in!
With the Bundesliga and Serie A starting last weekend, all top 5 European men's leagues are back in action, and so are the manly men that inhabit them. Join Tosin and Coach for SPS's customary trip around Europe to discuss all the action, including goals, racismo, tactics, and more teenagers making an impact on manly man footy.Tap in!
Man Utd followed up their 1-0 home loss to to with a 1-1 draw at Craven Cottage. Please feel free to stop us if you have heard this before: Man Utd have midfield issues. A few controversial calls, shaky defending, and no chance creation? Sounds familiar, yes?Join Tosin and guest Alex for the new Man Utd podcast as they navigate the highs and lows of supporting Man Utd in 2025.Tap in!
Arsenal opened their home schedule with a slightly disjointed but eventually dominant demolition of new Prem boys, Leeds United. Unfortunately, the 5-0 win cost Arsenal Martin Odegaard AND Bukayo Saka, despite welcome braces from Jurrien Timber and a memetastic Viktor Gyokeres.Join Coach, Gabby & Mitch (in the host's chair) for a review of the performance, the transfer window, Eberechi Eze's joyous welcome, Arsenal's prospects away at Anfield next weekend, and so much more. Tap in!
A giddy pair of Arsenal fans react to Eberechi Eze's credibly reported Arsenal signing minutes after the Ornbomb and Here We Go!(Sorry about Deen's muffled audio - man basically pulled over on the highway for this one)Tap in!
...and we're back! The Premier League, La Liga, and Ligue Un all kicked off this weekend, so we're back at it. Join Tosin, Coach and Deen for the first round of results from each league, along with season previews for all the most notable notables, including the action from Anfield, Man City's return (?), Newcastle and Villa's PSR Derby, Barcelona's trip to Mallorca, and tons more.Tap in!
Matchday 1 of the Premier League featured the ‘Eritage Derby, aka, The SPS Derby.Arsenal calmly stole a 1-0 win away at a much improved Manchester United, so the lads got into it with Tosin reppin' his set and Coach representing the Gooners. Deen attempted to play the part of neutral host (you decide if he succeeded).Join us for thoughts on Amorim's improved team and Arsenal's traditionally weird performance at Old Trafford.Tap in!
Fellow Gooners, another new Arsenal season is upon us, so we figured we'd kick things off in the most special manner we could think of. We're proud to welcome Andrew Mangan (of the Arsecast and Arseblog) onto SPS for Arsenal season preview. We talked transfers, the infamous left side, deep blocks, mid blocks, Italian leather, Mikel's job security, the club's aspirations, hate watches, the competition, and everything else we could get Andrew to opine on.If we dare say so ourselves, this one's a fantastic episode!Tap in!
Gooners… told y'all not to fuss so much. Join Coach and Deen for their review of Arsenal's comfortable 3-0 win over Athletic Bilbao in their final preseason game.Zubimendi played another blinder, Gyokeres got off the mark with a header, Havertz scored a “Gyokeres” transition goal, Declan Rice cooked in a double pivot, and Mikel had the boys playing more vertically.And we discussed it all. Tap in!
Join Tosin as he reacts to Man Utd's fourth summer signing, Benjamin Šeško. From his strengths and weaknesses to what he brings to Ruben Amorim's squad, Tosin breaks down the highs, lows, and everything in between. He also discusses the future of Manchester United, why fans should be excited about the club's direction, and why cautious optimism might be the smartest approach.If you're a Man Utd fan, Šeško supporter, or just love football transfer news, this is for you.Tap in!
Coach made it over to The Emirates (go watch ‘Coach's Corner' on YouTube live from the scene) and analyzed Arsenal's sloppy 2-3 loss to Villarreal. Gyokeres, Dowman, Martinelli, chemistry and more all get thoughts as we ramp up for a tough start to the season.Tap in!
Tosin and Tomi are back… and so is Manchester United! Preseason, player exits, the new signings, and Ruben Amorim's non-negotia… ahem, “culture shift” comments are all on the docket.Tap in!
The first ever North London Derby outside of London happened in Hong Kong and saw the lads lose 1-0 to the enemy, thanks to a lethargic preseason performance influenced by hot conditions, a dry pitch, and a ref out of his element. Nonetheless, Mitch and Deen found quite a bit to discuss, including individual performances, a potential Eberechi Eze transfer & much more.Tap in!
Nigeria's Super Falcons won their record extending TENTH Women's AFCON in Morocco last weekend, while England made it back-to-back Euros wins against the favored Spain. Join Coach, Mitch, and Deen for that and more from around the world of footy, including transfers and the latest preseason games.Tap in!
Arsenal's second preseason game in Singapore resulted in a 3-2 win over Newcastle's ogres, but the main and unavoidable talking point was Hale End's latest 15-year old talent: Max Dowman.Join Gabby, Coach & Deen for coverage of the football, violence, and their extremely unsuccessful attempt to CALMLY discuss what they've seen from the aforementioned teenager thus far.Tap in!
The Arsenal is back! Join Mitch and Deen for a review of Arsenal's first preseason game against AC Milan. The 1-0 win featured new signings in the form of Kepa, Christian Norgaard, and Deen's new favorite player, Martin Zubimendi! Ethan Nwaneri shined and there were other great cameos from established veterans and zygotes alike.Tap in!
After a series of disastrous defeats in pre-tournament friendlies, and starting players choosing to skip national duty, the US Men's National Team made it to yet another Gold Cup final, but lost to a clearly superior Mexico.Join Gabby, Mitch & Deen for a brief review of the team's performance in the Gold Cup and predictions regarding which players will make the final 26-man squad for the 2026 World Cup.Tap in!
Tosin and Coach dig into the latest around the world of football, including the Club World Cup, Gold Cup, Women's Euros, and the Women's AFCON, begging the question: “how much is too much?”For all of that, rumors, transfers and more, join the lads.Tap in!
We don't know about you lot, but we certainly didn't expect the Brazilian clubs to dominate the Club World Cup, yet, here we are.Join Tosin and Deen for the latest from the least most wanted summer tournament ever, the transfer window, and the Gold Cup.Tap in!
Summer's typically the time for footy obsessives to take a break from club football to devote their divided attention to international tournaments and non-footy interests, but FIFA, in all its wisdom, decided to launch the Club World Cup. Great.Join Tosin and Deen for a brisk trip through all the goings-on in world football over the last week, from the USMNT snapping a 4-game losing streak in their CONCACAF Gold Cup opener, to the sparsely attended and South American devoted Club World Cup.Tap in!
Arsenal Season Review with Elliot Ross (2nd Half) | SPS Podcast Episode 635
It's time to wrap up (then burn and bury) Arsenal's 24/25 season, so we asked longtime friend of the pod, Elliot Ross (@elliot__ross), to join us for a thorough assessment of the ups, downs, and everything between.In this first half, we recapped the season (good, bad and ugly), including a deep dive into Myles Lewis-Skelly's eventful season, the team's tendency to defend well and squander leads, along with a player of the season debate and much more.Tap in and expect the second half in another day or two. #COYG!
Wow. Didn't see THAT coming! The Qatari Sports Investment's long odyssey to take European football reached its logical conclusion as Luis Enrique's Paris St. Germain destroyed Simone Inzaghi's Internazionale 5-0 in the Champions League final.Join Tosin and Deen for an in-depth discussion of the match, Dembele's Ballon D'Or campaign, thoughts on the future of the sport, and a few other bits and bobs from around European football over the last few days.Tap in!
Our teams didn't make the premier club game in world football, but it's only right that we previewed Saturday's matchup in Munich. Join Coach, Tosin, and Deen for some Inter vs PSG yapping, including Lautaro praise, manager salutes, and possible racial abuse. Tap in!
The domestic league season is finally over. Conte's Napoli are Serie A champions, but is he already moving on? Luka Modric's league career at Real Madrid is over, and we learned which clubs get to play in Europe next season and why some clubs aren't.Join Tosin, Coach, and Deen for the SPS Weekend Review of the final weekend of league football. Tap in!
It's only right to dedicate the first portion of today's episode to Arsenal's fantastic 1-0 triumph over Barcelona in the UEFA Women's Champions League final. However, the men also wrapped up their season with a 2-1 victory at Southampton, powered by goals from a departing Kieran Tierney and the captain, which we covered in the second half of the show. Join the full lineup for thoughts on the conclusion to the season, victorious or otherwise. Tap in!
Manchester United have officially hit rock bottom. 16th in the league, out of Europe next season, and losing to… Tottenham in the Europa League final. YIKES!Join Tosin and Tomi for their remix of the Book of Lamentations as applied to the club they (still) love.Tap in!
This episode's our debut as part of the Barber's Chair FC (the Footy Division of the Barber's Chair Network). Join Tosin, Coach, and Deen as they review some new kits, celebrate Crystal Palace's FA Cup triumph, discuss the drama in Serie A, and cover the best of the rest as the leagues reach their final or penultimate rounds.Tap in!
Arsenal wrapped up their home campaign with a lethargic, tense, and eventually comfortable win over their fake rivals, the state-funded Newcastle United. Join Coach, Gabby, and Deen for a review of the football (first half bad, second half good), Kai's return, and farewells to Kieran Tierney and Jorginho. Tap in!
Reasonable minds may differ on whether Liverpool fans should've booed Trent Alexander-Arnold last weekend, but there's no denying the fact that it was an ugly scene. Join Tosin, Coach, and Deen for thoughts on Anfield, along with updates from the Serie A title race, yet another win for Barca in the final El Classico of the season, and lots more on this SPS Weekend Review. Tap in!
Professional Pride (Liverpool 2–2 Arsenal) | SPS Podcast Episode 625
The Champions League final is set: PSG face Inter in Munich. Join Tosin, Coach, and Deen for thoughts on the second leg matches between 4 clubs that could all have been worthy winners. Tap in!
Michael Olise's been Bayern's best player in an awkward season that ended in hilariously awkward fashion… at least for first time trophy winners, Harry Kane and Eric Dier. Join Gabby, Coach, and Deen for ruminations on backing into a league title and the happenings in Serie A, La Liga, Ligue Un, and the Premier League. Tap in! PS: “F**k Chelsea” - Gabby.
Arsenal put in yet another lethargic league performance featuring lots of the annoying trends that have made this league campaign a frustrating watch, and Bournemouth took advantage. Join Gabby, Mitch, and Deen for an equally lethargic chat about the game, as well as thoughts about both legs of the PSG tie. Tap in!
The first legs of the Champions League semis were full of quality and we're no closer to knowing which pair of teams will make it to the final in Munich, after PSG's narrow win over Arsenal, and the crazy draw between Inter and Barca. Join Coach and Deen for a good ol' ramble about both games and the larger issues that came to mind. Tap in!
Liverpool finally clinched their record tying 20th league title with a win over some insignificant team at Anfield, but the real party this weekend took place in Seville as Barca deservedly won a dramatic Copa Del Rey final against Real Madrid. Join Coach and Deen for thoughts on those games, as well as the big shake up at the top of Serie A, plus Arsenal and Barca making it to the UEFA Women's Champions League final. Tap in!
Simply put, that was Arsenal's sloppiest non-losing performance in a long minute. This Crystal Palace fixture was clearly just an obstacle to pass before the eagerly-awaited Champions League semifinal clash against PSG. Join Coach and Deen for a review of the performance, a preview of the PSG games, and some other current events at the Arsenal. Tap in!
Saint Scottie blew the Serie A title race open with a late header at Monza that put pressure on Inter, who in turn fell to a dramatic late defeat at Bologna. For the Serie A and more, join Tosin and Deen on this Easter edition of the SPS Weekend Review. Tap in!
Happy Easter, folks! Arsenal followed their triumphant European trip with a comfortable 4 goal win away at Ipswich, thanks to a nutmegged brace from Trossard and another pair from Martinelli and Nwaneri. Join Coach and Deen for a chat about a win that didn't require much from the guys, the PGMOL finally getting something right in an Arsenal match, and how Mikel Arteta's experiments in this game might affect the important remaining fixtures this season. Tap in!
Forgive the self indulgence, but Coach was in Madrid for what just happened to be one of the best nights in every Arsenal supporter's life. So we figured we'd ask him about his experience in Madrid and at the Bernabeu during Arsenal's famous win over Real Madrid in the Champions League. Memories, jokes, and even travel advice. It's all here. Tap in you GOONERS!