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Manchester City have lost the FA Cup Final. In this Talking City special, Simon Bajkowski and Alex James react to City's 1-0 defeat to Crystal Palace at Wembley, and break down where it all went wrong.
Joe Bray and Simon Bajkowski are back ahead of the FA Cup final and ask whether it even matters if Manchester City beat Crystal Palace at Wembley. They discuss the tricky call over starting Kevin De Bruyne and then delve into Erling Haaland's weird lack of goals in cup finals for the Blues. Will he break that duck on Saturday? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Manchester City scraped through the weirdest of matches on the south coast — but with Wembley around the corner, are Pep's men really ready? In this week's Talking City, Alex James and Simon Bajkowski break down:
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta believes his team should have two Premier League titles , but City fans (and stats) say otherwise. In this week's Talking City, Joe Bray and Simon Bajkowski react to the viral Arteta comments, assess City's run-in, and lay out what Pep's men need to do to clinch it again. Inside:
Manchester City's incredible U18 winning run came to a dramatic end at Villa Park in the Youth Cup final. On this week's Talking City, Joe Bray and Simon Bajkowski break down:
Manchester City are starting to look like their old selves again! But a Friday night test against Wolves could shake things up. On this week's Talking City, Simon Bajkowski and Joe Bray reflect on:
Manchester City are back at Wembley — and they're not finished yet. On this week's Talking City, Tyrone Marshall and Simon Bajkowski break down another big semi-final win, a huge moment for Rico Lewis, Kovacic's best performance in a City shirt, and the major decisions looming ahead of the FA Cup Final. Inside the episode:
City are back in the top 5 mix after a vital win over Aston Villa — but with the FA Cup semi-final looming, what matters most in the final run-in? Tyrone Marshall and Simon Bajkowski are in the studio breaking down: ⚽ Key takeaways from the Villa win
Manchester City are heading to Goodison Park for the final time — but Everton away has never been straightforward. Alex James and Joe Bray break down: ⚠️ Why this Everton game is a huge banana skin
Manchester City are entering the final stretch — but with injuries piling up and pressure mounting, every game now matters more than ever. Simon Bajkowski and Alex James break down: ⚽ City's Top 5 push — is it slipping away?
With just 7 Premier League games remaining, Manchester City face a must-win at home to Crystal Palace to keep their top five hopes alive. Simon Bajkowski and Alex James break down: ⚠️ The Top 5 race – and how many points City really need
Kevin De Bruyne has announced he's leaving Manchester City — and the derby didn't help the mood. In this episode of Talking City, Simon Bajkowski and Alex James reflect on a frustrating draw at Old Trafford and what it means in the title race, before diving into KDB's legacy, what City will miss most, and where Pep goes from here. Also on the show:
Joe Bray (Writer for Manchester Evening News) joins CrunkChocolate to talk about what he loves about football, how he became a Sports Journalist, and of course Manchester City. To be able to enjoy the full episode you will need to subscribe to our $6 a month tier of Patreon: patreon.com/user?u=94168109TOPICS:IntroductionHow did you fall in love with soccer/footballWhat made you get into sports journalism?What is something that is over/under rated about soccer/football (rule, chant, player, etc)The 24/25 season is similar to his first year at the club. AgNico O'Reilly was the talk of the FA Cup match vs Bournemouth. Pep said he intends to reward Nico with more minutes. People thought McAtee would get more minutes and haven't seen as much of Rico Lewis as anticipated. Is there a worry that he could fall by the wayside next season with the rumored big roster transition this summer? What impresses you the most from Nico O'Reilly and what do you believe his best position is?
It's Manchester Derby weekend — and we've gone BIG for it. Tyrone Marshall hosts a dual special podcast with Samuel Luckhurst from Manchester Is Red and Simon Bajkowski from Talking City as we preview the huge showdown at Old Trafford. Topics include: Are United even capable of stopping City right now? Can City's “old guard” handle the derby intensity? Haaland's injury latest and who replaces him Why this derby could shape both clubs' seasons Whether you're red or blue — this is the Manchester derby preview you can't miss.
City are off to Wembley for a record seventh FA Cup semi-final in a row — but the big story is how they got there. On this episode of Talking City, Tyrone Marshall and Simon Bajkowski react to Manchester City's 2-1 win at Bournemouth in the FA Cup quarter-final. We break down: Pep Guardiola's bold team selection How the ‘old guard' proved everyone wrong Bernardo Silva's fiery post-match interview The impact of Nico O'Reilly's second-half performance A worrying injury update on Erling Haaland Whether this win marks a true turning point in City's season Leicester preview and who should get a rest midweek With the derby looming, this might be City's most significant week of the season.
As Manchester City prepare to face Bournemouth in the FA Cup quarter-final, Luke Walters and Joe Bray are back to tackle the biggest issue facing fans right now. £750+ season ticket prices. Is the club pricing out its most loyal supporters? Are tourists being prioritised over locals? With the Viagogo deal and cost-of-living pressures, City fans are voicing frustration louder than ever.
In this special 2025 episode of Talking Manchester, we're joined by Crunk Chocolate from the Shades of Blue podcast — an American voice repping the Cityzens across the Atlantic!
Manchester City's struggles continue after another frustrating result, and questions are mounting about their top-four hopes. Simon Bajkowski and Alex James break down all the key talking points, including: ⚽ City's loss of control – why can't they dominate games anymore?
Joe Bray and Simon Bajkowski discuss City's stuttering tactics this season and why it isn't working after defeat at Forest. They look at why City sacked manager Gareth Taylor this week on the eve of the Women's League Cup final, and ask what the men's team need to do to beat Brighton.
In this episode of the Talking City Podcast, hosts Simon and Alex delve into Manchester City's alarming downturn: Shocking Statistics: 15 losses in 30 matches across all competitions – a stark contrast to their previous dominance. 9 Premier League defeats – an unprecedented figure in recent seasons. Analysing the Crisis: Is Pep Guardiola's tactical approach under question? Are the players' performances to blame? Could complacency after years of success be a factor? Jack Grealish Under the Microscope: With zero goals and only one assist in 16 league appearances, is it the end of the road for him at City? Join us as we dissect these pressing issues and explore what lies ahead for Manchester City.
Joe Bray and Simon Bajkowski discuss City's chances against Nottingham Forest in the toughest game they have left this season. They assess Nathan Ake's injury blow and who could benefit, before talking tickets and travel as fans are given updates on the Real Madrid fiasco and the upcoming FA Cup trip to Bournemouth. And there's lots of love for the academy, who are on for a remarkable quadruple this season.
In this episode of Talking City, we dissect Manchester City's recent 3-1 FA Cup victory over Plymouth Argyle. Despite making 11 changes to the starting lineup, City faced an early scare when Plymouth took the lead. We analyse the performance of the rotated squad and discuss the pressure on these players to step up. We also highlight teenage sensation Nico O'Reilly, who netted two crucial goals to steer City into the quarter-finals. We delve into Erling Haaland's impactful cameo off the bench, providing the assist for Kevin De Bruyne's late goal that sealed the win. De Bruyne's overall performance is evaluated, highlighting his creative influence and leadership on the pitch. Looking ahead, we preview the upcoming Premier League clash against Nottingham Forest, a pivotal match in the race for a top-four finish. We assess Forest's impressive form this season and the challenges they pose, setting the stage for a thrilling encounter. Join us as we delve into these topics and more, providing in-depth analysis and insights on all things Manchester City.
Joe Bray and Luke Walters discuss City's toothless Champions League exit to Real Madrid and discuss Erling Haaland's injury mystery ahead of the Liverpool game. They ask why Kevin De Bruyne didn't play at the Bernabeu - but also pick out one positive from going out of Europe. Looking ahead to Liverpool, can City win and slow the Reds' march to the title?
Joe Bray and Simon Bajokowski are back to heap praise on Nico Gonzalez and Omar Marmoush for their performances vs Newcastle and bring the latest on Erling Haaland's injury vs Real Madrid. Simon is in Madrid and the pair discuss who starts in the crucial Champions League clash - with Pep Guardiola giving City just a 1% chance of progressing.
Hello and welcome to The Everything is Black and White Podcast. Andrew Musgrove is joined by the MEN's Joe Bray for this week's The View from the Opposition. Just how is Pep Guardiola handling Man City's fall from the top? And can Newcastle United go and upset the odds at The Etihad? --- Get your NORD VPN plan here: https://nordvpn.com/toon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Manchester City's mentality and game management come under scrutiny in this episode of the Talking City Podcast. Joe Bray and Simon Bajkowski break down City's painful collapse against Real Madrid, Pep Guardiola's concerns over consistency, and key injuries that could impact the crucial Premier League clash against Newcastle. Can City bounce back, or are deeper issues at play? Plus, the team debates Erling Haaland's frustration, Rico Lewis' struggles, and what's next for City in the title race and Champions League.
In this special episode of Talking City, Simon Bajkowski sits down with Barry Silkman, former Manchester City and Leyton Orient midfielder, to discuss his incredible career, his time under the legendary Malcolm Allison, and his experiences in football management and transfers. Silkman shares fascinating behind-the-scenes stories about his time at City, how the game has evolved, and his views on Manchester City's current squad, transfer strategy, and the state of modern football.
Alex James and Simon Bajkowski react to Manchester City's shocking 5-1 defeat to Arsenal, with Pep Guardiola and John Stones branding the performance "unacceptable." As the transfer deadline looms, will City make any last-minute signings to strengthen the squad? The guys break down the fallout from the crushing loss, potential deadline-day moves, and what needs to change before it's too late. Don't miss the latest Talking City podcast!
Manchester City are on fire—literally!
In this episode of the Talking City Podcast, we break down Manchester City's crucial 3-1 victory over Chelsea, analyzing the resilience of new signings Kusinov and Marmoush, Erling Haaland's unstoppable consistency, and Phil Foden's return to form. We also discuss Pep Guardiola's plans for the Champions League clash against Club Brugge and the team's ambitions to remain top-four spot. Plus, transfer window updates, tactical insights, and a preview of City's brutal February fixtures.
Joe Bray and Alex James discuss City's disaster at PSG and rate their chances of reaching the Champions League knockouts. Three new signings have arrived - but could they play vs Chelsea? There is more bad news on the injury front, and the panel discuss a season-defining fixture list that will save the campaign or plunge City into an even bigger crisis. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Joe Bray and Simon Bajkowski dive into Manchester City's preparations for their huge Champions League clash with PSG. Can Pep Guardiola's side outshine Ousmane Dembélé and company in their toughest test yet? The duo also reflect on City's 6-0 demolition of Ipswich, Jeremy Doku's incredible performance, and what this form means for their European ambitions.
Erling Haaland has dropped a bombshell, signing a record-breaking 10 year contract with Man City worth £500k a week! In this episode Luke Walters and Joe Bray dive into what this means for City's future, Haalands legacy and the Premier League's new wage benchmark. Did Haaland really snub Real Madrid for Loyalty, or is this a masterclass in career strategy? Plus we break down City's draw with Brentford, defensive struggles, and January transfer updates. Don't miss the latest Talking City!
On this episode of Talking City, host Luke Walters and Simon Bajkowski dive into the major developments at Manchester City. From Kyle Walker's unexpected departure request and its impact on the squad, to the standout performances of James McAtee and Rico Lewis in City's record-breaking 8-0 FA Cup win over Salford, we break down all the key moments. Discover Pep Guardiola's transfer plans, updates on new signings like Abdukadir Kusunov, and how City plans to fill the leadership void left by Walker. Plus, insights on Jack Grealish breaking his goal drought and the rising stars making a case for more minutes. Tune in for expert analysis, exciting narratives, and everything you need to know about Manchester City right now!
Joe Bray and Simon Bajkowski discuss City's plans for Vitor Reis, their latest transfer target, and offer updates on the interest in Omar Marmoush and Abdkodir Khusanov. They debate whether City's recent transfer record and whether Txiki Begiristain is under pressure this month, before looking ahead to the FA Cup clash with Salford and which youngsters could play.
Joe Bray and Simon Bajkowski discuss City's win over West Ham and debate whether Pep Guardiola was right to criticise his players afterwards. We look at Kevin De Bruyne's comments about the Etihad crowd, and then talk Jack Grealish and Guardiola's criticism of his number ten. Finally, there is a transfer update on Omar Marmoush and Abdkodir Khusanov.
Joe Bray and Simon Bajkowski discuss City's progress in the January transfer window, with Abdukodir Khusanov on the shopping list as well as Omar Marmoush and Ederson. We look at the chances of signing the trio and why the transfer strategy has changed slightly. There is talk of any outgoings as well as a look ahead to the visit of West Ham in the Premier League. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Joe Bray and Simon Bajkowski discuss City's win at Leicester and ask if it will spark an upturn in fortunes. With the January transfer window set to open, Kevin De Bruyne is free to speak to other clubs - but should City offer him a new deal? There is talk about Erling Haaland's future and also the confusing James McAtee situation after an impressive cameo at Leicester. Finally, there is a review of 2024 and how it will be remembered from a City perspective. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Joe Bray and Simon Bajkowski ask when City's run is going to end as Everton expose their confidence issues. Erling Haaland was furious at the Etihad but is that a good thing? And with the January transfer window approaching, we ask which City players face a serious fight for their City futures, as well as who could be coming in as new signings? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Joe Bray and Simon Bajkowski are back to dive deeper into the issues behind City's losing run, looking at Ilkay Gundogan's form, Kyle Walker's leadership and some Pep Guardiola decisions. But they also ask.. Can City still win the Premier League title despite all this? There is a preview of the Aston Villa fixture and a chat about the January transfer window, too. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Joe Bray and Simon Bajkowski discuss Manchester City's collapse against Feyenoord and wonder if the Blues have any chance at all against Liverpool. They dissect Pep Guardiola's curious comments about his future (even though he just signed a new deal), and look at whether City are in the title race or not. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Joe Bray and Simon Bajkowski discuss Manchester City's latest defeat, this time vs Tottenham, and try to work out what is going wrong. They discuss Kyle Walker's form, Pep Guardiola's verdict on the injury crisis, and whether City are already out of the title race. They also ask what is happening with Kevin De Bruyne's contract and whether he will sign a new deal this season Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Joe Bray and Alex James discuss Manchester City's three defeats on the spin and ask where Pep Guardiola goes from here to turn the form around? Joe reveals how Guardiola's moody press conference will affect the City camp ahead of the trip to Brighton, and we discuss the manager's not-so-subtle criticism of England boss Lee Carsley over his decision to include Jack Grealish in his latest squad. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Joe Bray and Simon Bajkowski discuss Manchester City's strange win over Southampton, and whether we are judging the Blues by different standards even though they are unbeaten and top of the Premier League. We look at how Arsenal's draw with Liverpool affects the title race, and then look ahead to Monday's Ballon d'Or ceremony which could see Rodri become the first City player to win the prestigious award. But does it matter? Finally, they discuss which academy players could take on Tottenham in the Carabao Cup. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Joe Bray and Simon Bajkowski discuss Manchester City's win over Sparta Prague and dissect Erling Haaland's frankly unbelievable goal - and ask has anyone ever scored a goal like it before? They talk about the performances of Phil Foden and Matheus Nunes and how important they will be amid an injury crisis that is only getting worse. And before looking ahead to the clash with Southampton, Simon gives us the lowdown on his new book 'The Blueprint' which charts the rise of City and the hidden secrets behind the success at the Etihad. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Joe Bray and Simon Bajkowski discuss Manchester City's late win at Wolves and whether John Stones' injury time goal should have stood. They look at Josko Gvardiol's brilliant attacking returns after another fine strike, but question if questions should be asked over the defence with the wait for a clean sheet going on. With Arsenal dropping points, they talk about the impact of the result on the title race, and look at which players need to use the fixtures with Sparta Prague and Southampton to play their way back into form. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tyrone Marshall and Joe Bray look at City's landmark win against the Premier League over Associated Party Transactions and assess what it means going forward. There is also time to cast an eye over the win against Fulham. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Hello and welcome to The Everything is Black & White Podcast. It's time for The View from the Opposition with Andrew Musgrove. He's joined by Man City reporter Joe Bray. While the visit of Man City is daunting prospect they do have their weaknesses and the hope is United can take advantage of them. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices