Podcasts about Xabi Alonso

Rog and Rory are back to break down all of the Premier League action from Matchweek 2, including Cole Palmer and Chelsea firing on all cylinders under Xabi Alonso—but just how concerning is their leaky defense with their showdown against Arsenal looming next week? Meanwhile, Liverpool's situation remains increasingly muddled after another draw, this time against Nottingham Forest. Does the dysfunction stem from Andoni Iraola, the system, the players, ownership, or all of the above? Plus, Rayan Cherki and Bruno Fernandes take their wizardry to another level, while Tottenham welcome fresh faces only to endure the same misery. Plus, Rog and Rory unveil their latest "Fan Mood Rankings" across the Premier League.Check out the full interview with Bruno Fernandes here: https://mibcourage.co/3V5mwwsHear more from Cole Palmer and his return to form here: https://mibcourage.co/3V40DO8Watch the Dominic Calvert-Lewin interview here: https://mibcourage.co/4iDWUAzChapters00:00:00 - Liverpool vs. Nottingham Forest reactions00:08:42 - Pressure on Florian Wirtz00:12:20 - The transfers Liverpool still need00:19:15 - Chelsea vs. Brighton Reactions00:26:30 - Crystal Palace vs. Manchester City Reactions00:39:05 - Manchester United vs. Ipswich Town Reactions00:47:53 - Tottenham vs. Newcastle Reactions01:01:23 - Coventry vs. Hull Reactions01:04:20 - Leeds vs. Brentford Reactions01:06:06 - Sunderland vs. Fulham Reactions01:08:24 - Bournemouth vs. Everton Reactions01:16:52 - Happiest Fans? Saddest Fans?01:19:43 - Fan Letter: Maresca and GuardiolaSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Gary, Alan & Micah get stuck into the Premier League weekend as Xabi Alonso's Chelsea continued to impress with a 4-3 win over Brighton, with Joao Pedro and Cole Palmer starring in front of the watching Carlo Ancelotti and Thomas Tuchel. Spurs may have spent over £300m in the summer but they continue to struggle as Matthias Jaissle's Newcastle did a number on them on Saturday, plus we saw Manchester City really kick into gear at Palace, and there are concerns for Liverpool who remain winless after the 2-2 draw with Forest. The boys also discussed Manchester United's 5-2 hammering of Ipswich which featured the first proper VAR controversy of the season with Harry Maguire's handball in the buildup to what was a pivotal moment in the match. And did we see an early relegation six pointer at Coventry? It's two from two for Hull City but how long can it last? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Hull sit proudly at the top of the table. Is it a freak or have the Tigers, and the other promoted clubs been misjudged?Ipswich were thumped at Old Trafford, but their performance had many positive signs. While Man Utd looked to have rediscovered some swagger. Who shone brightest, Fernandez, Rashford or Mainoo.After the break familiar horribly memories at Spurs as they lose again - but will it be different this time? A very positivity start on Tyneside for Matthias Jaissle. Will Bradley Barcola fix any of Liverpool's problems? Plus, what is the transfer you'd most like to see happen and are Chelsea really different under Xabi Alonso? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The boys are back to recap Matchweek 2 of the Premier League season! Robbie Earle and Robbie Mustoe discuss Tottenham Hotspurs' second loss in as many matches, which had their boss, Roberto De Zerbi, questioning the team's mentality. Plus, Chelsea look a changed team under Xabi Alonso, Liverpool stutter to another draw, and the talismen at the Manchester clubs push their team to victories on the weekend. Follow us @The2RobbiesNBC See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Forest pay fifty million for Liam Delap; City buy a teenager for eighty five million and Spurs sign second stringer Savio also for eighty five million. Has the Premier League transfer market gone mad?Xabi Alonso's Chelsea looked good in their first run out of the season, if they sign a keeper could they be challengers to Arsenal? As teams struggle to compete financially is it a level playing field or stacked in favour of 'the old guard'?And have UEFA lost their nerve in their battle with Gianni Infantino?Gregor Robertson joins Tony Cascarino, Jonathan Northcroft and Martin Samuel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Chelsea beat Luton 2-0 in the Carabao Cup but nobody is talking about it, because Chelsea are signing Emiliano Martinez from Aston Villa for £7.5m and it changes everything. Simon and Manny react to a deal that finally addresses the single biggest weakness in this squad — Robert Sanchez is no longer Chelsea's number one, and a World Cup winning goalkeeper with genuine elite pedigree is walking through the door for a fraction of his value.The hosts applaud the decision wholeheartedly. This is exactly the kind of decisive, targeted business Chelsea have failed to do for years. But it comes with an obvious and slightly infuriating question — why on earth did it take this long? The Sanchez conversation has been going on for seasons, the evidence has been overwhelming, and the fact that it took until now to act says as much about the club's decision-making as the signing itself does about their ambition.Simon and Manny also give their full assessment of the impending Enzo Fernandez departure. After a saga that has dragged on all summer, the hosts are in agreement — he should go. A player who does not want to be at Chelsea has no business being at Chelsea, and with the window closing, both hosts explain why cutting the cord is the right move for the player, the manager, and the dressing room Xabi Alonso is trying to build.Add in a routine cup win over Luton and Chelsea suddenly look like a club making grown-up decisions.

Rog is joined by Chelsea midfield star Cole Palmer to talk about his fast start against Fulham and what it's been like linking up with his friend and new attacking partner, Morgan Rogers. He opens up about dealing with injuries and getting back to playing freely again under new manager Xabi Alonso. Cole also talks about launching his new ice brand and shares his reaction to Caleb Williams copying his trademark celebration.Check out the Men in Blazers Shop: https://mibcourage.co/4qIb2L1Sign up for our newsletters: https://mibcourage.co/4rA5fGzJoin our Discord! https://discord.gg/9dUpP2pHHUSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The FC crew react to Real Madrid's win over Real Sociedad and praise Kylian Mbappe for his hat trick. The guys also react to Manchester City returning to the negotiating table for Enzo Fernandez and question if Xabi Alonso is willing to let the Argentine leave so late in the window. Plus, the guys break down moves for Nico Jackson, Gabriel Martinelli, Savio and Omar Marmoush while questioning why these players are going for such big fees. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The vibes are officially back at Chelsea. A 3-2 opening day win over Fulham delivered everything a season opener should — Joao Pedro on the scoresheet after just 32 seconds, Cole Palmer looking like the player everyone fell in love with, and Morgan Rogers marking his Chelsea debut with a goal that immediately justified the record fee. Simon and Manny are buzzing, and rightly so.The hosts break down a hugely encouraging first look at Xabi Alonso's Chelsea, singling out Maxence Lacroix for particular praise after a superb debut that delivered both a brilliant assist and the kind of composed, no-nonsense defending this back line has been crying out for. If that is the standard, Chelsea have found something special.But it was not all perfect. Three points cannot paper over a shaky display from Robert Sanchez, and Simon and Manny ask the question that will not go away — do Chelsea need a new goalkeeper? Is Sanchez the single biggest obstacle standing between this squad and a genuine title challenge? It is an honest and uncomfortable conversation that needs to be had before the window closes.Speaking of which, the Enzo Fernandez saga rumbles into its final week with no resolution in sight. Will he still be a Chelsea player when the window slams shut? Simon and Manny give their verdict, before looking ahead to Luton in the Carabao Cup and a chance for Alonso to build momentum early.

De Premier League is weer begonnen! Dit seizoen kijk je 342 wedstrijden live bij Viaplay, vanaf € 14,92 per maand. Ga voor 8 september naar www.viaplay.nl/voetbal en meld je aan! In deze VI ZSM bespreken Bas van den Hoven en Bart Frouws de uitstekende competitiestart van Donyell Malen, die maandagavond driemaal scoorde voor AS Roma tegen Fiorentina. Krijgt hij na het mislukte WK het vertrouwen van de nieuwe Oranje-bondscoach Xavi? En wat gaat de Spanjaard doen met Virgil van Dijk en Memphis Depay? Bij Chelsea zat Xabi Alonso voor het eerst op de bank en Bas zag de hand van de trainer al tijdens de 3-2 zege bij Fulham. En is Viktor Tsygankov de buitenspeler die Ajax zoekt? 00:00 - Hattrick Donyell Malen04:00 - Presentatie Xavi07:50 - Chelsea begint met zege12:20 - Premier League15:45 - Nieuwe versterking Ajax?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dave Jones is joined by Jamie Carragher and Gary Neville to break down Chelsea's thrilling 3-2 victory over west London rivals Fulham, handing Xabi Alonso the perfect start as he got the better of fellow Spaniard and Premier League newcomer Alvaro Arbeloa on the season's first Monday Night Football.•You can watch the Premier League action live on Sky Sports. If you're not already a Sky customer, you can stream Sky Sports on your terms with a NOW membership. Sign up to NOW here: www.nowtv.com/membership/watch-sky-sports?DCMP=ilc_skysports_podcastlink•Listen to every episode of the Sky Sports Premier League Podcast here: www.skysports.com/podcasts/36578/11933957/sky-sports-premier-league-podcast-post-match-analysis-from-super-sunday-mnf-and-more•You can listen to the Sky Sports Premier League Podcast on your smart speaker by asking it to "play Sky Sports Premier League Podcast".•For all the latest Premier League news, head to www.skysports.com/premier-league•For advertising opportunities email: skysportspodcasts@sky.uk

Xabi Alonso called on Cole Palmer, Morgan Rogers and Joao Pedro to lead Chelsea as the trio all scored in the Blues' 3-2 win over Fulham. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The title says it all - the European leagues are back! Oh and a common question that came up in this episode: does Xabi Alonso have the juice?

Xabi Alonso wants Chelsea to put fear back into the Premier League — and Monday night at Craven Cottage is where that starts. Chris and Joe preview the season opener, picking their lineup for Fulham away, backing the front three to click early, and weighing up whether Enzo Fernández or Romeo Lavia gets the nod alongside Moisés Caicedo. Plus the latest on the the swirling ownership rumours around Todd Boehly and Clearlake. First game, new manager, and a west London derby that always carries an edge. Meet the HostsChris Sheen and Joe Kevin are lifelong Chelsea fans who've been going to Stamford Bridge for over 30 years.What started as swapping post-match voicenotes has grown into a fan pod capturing the highs, the lows, and everything in between from Gate 13 of the Matthew Harding Stand. The 1905 PodcastChelsea FC Founded: 1905European Champions: 19/05

Rog and Rory Smith are back together again just days ahead of the start of another season....this time bringing you PART 1 of a massive three part Premier League preview. Rog and Rory break down the biggest storylines from the 10 teams of southern England including Arsenal's title defense...can Mikel Arteta, Bukayo Saka, Declan Rice and company build a dynasty? Plus, Chelsea finally got their man in Xabi Alonso...is he the savior the club needs, or headed towards another sacking? Then, Tottenham's splashy summer spending spree on the likes of Sandro Tonali and Andy Robertson brought loads of talent to Roberto de Zerbi's squad...but what question marks remain for Spurs? Finally, Rog and Rory spoil the future and predict what teams will finish top 4, and which team will be crowned champion at season's end.Check out the full interview with defending league champion and manager Mikel Arteta: https://mibcourage.co/4bWcWBQWatch Rog sit down with Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso: https://mibcourage.co/4qlXgxDCheck out the Men in Blazers Shop: https://mibcourage.co/4qIb2L1Sign up for our newsletters: https://mibcourage.co/4rA5fGzJoin our Discord! https://discord.gg/9dUpP2pHHUSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

⏰ LAST CHANCE — Sign up to the CATW Newsletter before WEDNESDAY to claim your FREE Chelsea Fixture Calendar at https://catwpodcast.comThe wait is almost over. Simon and Manny deliver the definitive Chelsea season preview, packed with bold takes, honest predictions, and the kind of unfiltered analysis that only Chelsea Against The World brings. After a summer of upheaval, a new manager, record spending and genuine optimism, it is finally time to put predictions on the record.The hosts open with a review of Chelsea's final pre-season outing — a convincing 3-1 win over Real Sociedad that offered genuine encouragement about where Xabi Alonso has this squad heading into the opening weekend. The shape looked better, the intensity was there, and for the first time this summer Chelsea looked like a team with a clear identity rather than a collection of expensive parts.Then the transfer talk that refuses to go away. Pedro Neto has been heavily linked with a move to Saudi Arabia and the Enzo Fernandez saga rumbles on with no resolution in sight. Simon and Manny break down both situations, assess what each departure or retention would mean for Alonso's plans, and give their honest predictions on how it all ends before the window slams shut.And then the main event — the predictions. Where do Chelsea finish? What is realistic in the cups? Who wins the Premier League? Who goes down? Golden Boot? First manager sacked? Simon and Manny hold nothing back and put their reputations firmly on the line with takes that will have the comments section on fire before the first whistle even blows.

Ryan and Shawn welcome longtime friend Mayor Steve Mason to the studio on the eve of his first meeting as chair of the 45-member Regional Transportation Council. They cover his path from Cedar Hill teenager to three-term mayor, the origin story of Mastek Engineering's role on Pioneer Park, the region's mobility future, and a courtside seat to how RTC coordinated World Cup match-day transit. Plus: a baby announcement, a Cedar Hill hidden gem, and a lesson in leadership.Welcome, Alexandra Pearl Williams – Shawn returns from paternity leave to announce his newborn daughter, born on a palindrome birthday and named around a June-birthstone theme.17 Years of Service – Mason's path from Cedar Hill Chamber of Commerce to Planning & Zoning, nine years on City Council, and now his third term as mayor.The Pioneer Park Story – How a last-minute Friday-night call to Shawn Williams brought Mastek Engineering onto the Convention Center Master Plan team. Takeaway: "Be ready. You don't have to get ready."The Future of Mobility – A preview of RTC's Mobility 2050 planning, autonomous vehicles, flying rideshares, and breaking down transit silos between DART, DCTA, and Trinity Metro.Legislative Priorities – DART's leadership transition, the 2027 legislative session, and how RTC supports smaller cities through grants and letters of support.Cedar Hill Hidden Gem – The Cedar Hill Public Library, with four rooftop decks and a free public recording studio.Leadership Advice – Dream big, write your goals down, and be a good listener.Post-Interview: Ryan and Shawn reflect on World Cup energy in Dallas, preview the Premier League season under new Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso, and talk local soccer momentum with the Trinity FC–Atlético Dallas merger and Chicharito's signing.Connect with Mayor Mason: cedarhilltx.com | LinkedIn: Mastek Engineering | FacebookDeconstructing Dallas is brought to you by Allyn Media. Subscribe and leave a five-star review on your favorite podcast platform.

Liverpool win the league, then stumble to fifth, then pull the trigger on the manager. That kind of swing forces one uncomfortable question: when you've invested big and the football turns joyless, how patient are you supposed to be? We unpack the Slot era hangover, why the sack feels justified to us, and what we actually want to see from Andoni Iraola beyond buzzwords. For us it's simple: clear pressing, bolder attacking patterns, and players put in roles that make sense. From the back line to the front three, we go position by position through Liverpool's most urgent decisions. We talk about the new centre-back partnership around Virgil van Dijk, the fullback depth problem, and the Connor Bradley injury debate that raises real questions about Premier League rules and player safety. In midfield, we make the case for a true number six and why a profile like Adam Wharton could change the entire build-up and defensive stability. Then it's the emotional pivot: Mohamed Salah's departure and what replacing an era really means. We explore winger targets, the need for rotation, and how Liverpool can finally create the conditions for Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak to thrive together. We also step back into the wider Premier League preview: promoted clubs that can ambush teams early, Arsenal's title defence, Manchester City without Pep Guardiola, plus Chelsea under Xabi Alonso and what to expect from Manchester United. If you enjoy smart fan analysis with strong opinions, subscribe, share the show with a friend, and leave a review.Support the show-----------https://www.MTPshow.comOur Social Mediahttps://linktr.ee/MTPSHOW-----------Hosts: Mike Marcangelo, Dave ClarkeProducer: Craig D'Alessandro, Dave ClarkeInquiries: Craig@mtpshow.com

Ander Iturralde da la bienvenida a Gonzalo Carol y Santi Bauzá para analizar todo lo que podemos esperar de una temporada de la Premier League que está a punto de comenzar... Comenzando por lo que nos dejó el partido de la Community Shield entre el vigente campeón Arsenal y el vigente subcampeón Manchester City; tras lo cual damos un rápido repaso a la primera jornada ya disputada de Championship; antes de volver a la Premier para desmenuzar exactamente qué esperar del Arsenal y por qué es claro favorito para volver a ser campeón de la competición; en la cual buscará resarcirse de su humillante campaña pasada el Chelsea, equipo que no tenemos ni idea cuánto exactamente mejorará de la mano de Xabi Alonso; mientras que su exequipo, el Liverpool, también querrá lavarse el mal sabor de boca de su pasada temporada; algo que no aplica a un Manchester United que buscará crecer aún más a partir de su buen final el año anterior pero que no sabemos si realmente será capaz; como tampoco transmite las sensaciones más óptimas de ser capaz de triunfar Enzo Maresca ante el reto del Manchester City; antes de adentrarnos en la absurdidez del Tottenham de cara a esta temporada tras dos seguidas terminando 17º; la pregunta de qué clase de amenaza pueden ser Aston Villa y Newcastle de cara a los puestos europeos; qué esperar de los 3 equipos recién ascendidos; nuestras predicciones y mucho más.Versión en vídeo: https://youtu.be/vbkYjLrTY5sApoya a que Alineación Indebida pueda prosperar, accede a todo nuestro contenido premium y a nuestro server de Discord suscribiéndote por tan sólo 1.00$/1.00€ en: https://www.patreon.com/alineacionindebida/posts/previa-indebida-166980688Además... Ahora, al suscribirte en nuestra página de Patreon, puedes escuchar todo nuestro contenido de Alineación Indebida Premium a través del siguiente link de Spotify. Sólo tienes que vincular la cuenta que abras en Patreon y, a partir de ahí, tendrás desbloqueado todo el contenido premium que producimos: https://open.spotify.com/show/6WeulpfbWFjVtLlpovT¡Volvemos el Jueves!Sigue a Ander: https://x.com/andershoffmanSigue a Gonzalo: https://x.com/gonzalocarol29Sigue a Santi: https://x.com/santi_bauzaSigue al programa en Twitter: https://twitter.com/PodcastIndebidoSigue al programa en Instagram: instagram.com/podcastindebidoContacto: anderpodcast@gmail.com // alineacionindebidapodcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

There's a real buzz around Chelsea heading into 2026/27 — Chris and Joe call it the most open Premier League in years. Xabi Alonso's aura alone has lifted the mood among Chelsea fans, and the squad finally looks built for the Premier League's physicality. They dig into the Enzo Fernández saga — Chelsea's £120m Man City deadline — not as a crisis but as proof of how far the club's standing has shifted. Levi Colwill and Romeo Lavia both get tipped for breakout years. Then: full predictions for the league, both cups, and Player of the Season. -- Meet the HostsChris Sheen and Joe Kevin are lifelong Chelsea fans who've been going to Stamford Bridge for over 30 years.What started as swapping post-match voicenotes has grown into a fan pod capturing the highs, the lows, and everything in between from Gate 13 of the Matthew Harding Stand. The 1905 PodcastChelsea FC Founded: 1905European Champions: 19/05

Rog sits down with Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso to discuss what convinced him to take on the challenge at Stamford Bridge, what Cole Palmer needs to rediscover his best form, and why he wanted to add proven veterans to a young Chelsea side. Plus, Alonso breaks down what Morgan Rogers can bring to the attack.Check out the Men in Blazers Shop: https://mibcourage.co/4qIb2L1Sign up for our newsletters: https://mibcourage.co/4rA5fGzJoin our Discord! https://discord.gg/9dUpP2pHHUSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Joe Hart, Chris Sutton and Adam Crafton are with Mark Chapman to look ahead to the Premier League season, can they cover all 20 clubs in this episode of the Monday Night Club? That depends on whether you count Chris Sutton's predicted Premier League table. They reflect on Manchester City's performance in their Community Shield defeat to Arsenal, what it takes to defend a Premier League title, and whether Xabi Alonso can repeat Antonio Conte's feat of taking Chelsea from a club that finished tenth to title winners in the following season. Plus, Hull City assistant head coach Dean Holden discusses their preparations for a return to the top flight.01:39 – Takeaways from Manchester City's Community Shield defeat 17:28 – What is so difficult about defending a Premier League title? 21:47 – Can Chelsea challenge for the title? 32:00 – Hull City assistant Dean Holden 38:50 – Coventry and Ipswich's survival hopes 43:03 – Will Aston Villa start the season with two ‘starting' goalkeepers? 45:13 – Which club has the most potential to under deliver this season?

It's been another summer of change at Chelsea. Now on the eve of the new Premier League season we're taking a closer look at how the Blues are shaping up under Xabi Alonso in this special Sky Sports podcast.Peter Smith is joined by James Savundra and David Richardson to discuss Alonso's tactical plans, the future of Enzo Fernandez, record-signing Morgan Rogers and Chelsea's chances of success.•You can watch the Premier League action live on Sky Sports. If you're not already a Sky customer, you can stream Sky Sports on your terms with a NOW membership. Sign up to NOW here: www.nowtv.com/membership/watch-sky-sports?DCMP=ilc_skysports_podcastlink•Listen to every episode of the Sky Sports Premier League Podcast here: www.skysports.com/podcasts/36578/11933957/sky-sports-premier-league-podcast-post-match-analysis-from-super-sunday-mnf-and-more•You can listen to the Sky Sports Premier League Podcast on your smart speaker by asking it to "play Sky Sports Premier League Podcast".•For all the latest Premier League news, head to www.skysports.com/premier-league•For advertising opportunities email: skysportspodcasts@sky.uk

The new Premier League season is fast approaching!Sam Matterface is joined by talkSPORT's Chief Football Correspondent Alex Crook and our summer signing Troy Deeney to preview the season at the top and bottom of the table.Can anyone topple champions Arsenal? They are the only team of the traditional top sic to retain their manager so can Mikel Arteta become just the fourth manager to retain the Premier League title?Will Chelsea be one of their closest contenders? Troy tells us why their punt on Xabi Alonso is something he's excited to see unfoldHow will City cope without Pep Guardiola, and potentially Rodri? How long will it take Liverpool to get used to Iraola? And will Spurs back up their big spending summer by finishing above 17th?Plus, we ask if the promoted trio can follow in the footsteps of last seasons promoted sides by remaining in the league, and we give you our comprehensive pre season predictions!Instagram: @talkSPORTTwitter: @talkSPORT YouTubeWebsite Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Morning all,Let's run through all the latest Chelsea transfer news then!* Enzo Fernandez saga over? People need to wind their necks in and love the club more than players.* Replacements? One to watch? Martin Zubimendi? Same agent as Xabi Alonso, not going to be playing at Arsenal, Xabi looking for a tempo setter.* Meetings with Crystal Palace on Saturday evening - Wharton discussed again? More positivity on it.* Alex Scott very much still on the cards, Chelsea wanted to operate in silence.* Outgoings this week will once again ramp up, couple big ones? Delap to Forest one to watch. Jackson destined to go. Where is Marc Guiu?!* Pedro Neto to Saudi?* Then what else will be done in the remaining weeks of the window? Versatile attacker to replace Neto? CM, CB? ST?* Rob Pratley ducking out and a word on the abuse. End it.Thanks for tuning in!Si This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sptc.news/subscribe

Ni Carlo Ancelotti, al menos en su último año, ni Xabi Alonso ni Álvaro Arbeloa consiguieron cortar de raíz el problema más grave del Real Madrid en los últimos tiempos. Uno que va más allá de lo que ocurre en el verde, pero que tiene su evidente reflejo en el juego y que, en la práctica, ha instalado una sequía de títulos inaceptable para el Bernabéu. Ahora, José Mourinho afronta ese reto, el de la gestión de egos e individualidades de un enorme talento, como el gran desafío de su segunda estancia en la 'Casa Blanca'.

Ander Iturralde da la bienvenida a Óscar Portugal, Gonzalo Carol y Mavid Data para analizar la nueva alineación de entrenadores que vamos a tener en la Premier League esta temporada (y a Mourinho en el Real Madrid)...Comenzando, precisamente, por el surrealista regreso de José Mourinho al Madrid antes de pasar al sísmico cambio en la vida del Manchester City con la marcha de Pep Guardiola y el aterrizaje de su doble de las escenas peligrosas Enzo Maresca y cómo puede afectar al equipo; continuando por el entrenador que empezó la temporada en el Real Madrid y ahora lo hace en el exequipo de Maresca, el Chelsea, Xabi Alonso y un proyecto que nos fascina de arriba a abajo por lo impredecible que nos resulta; mientras que demasiado predecible nos parece el camino que va a continuar tomando Mikel Arteta en el Arsenal; si Michael Carrick, con la dificultad elevada, puede mantener el nivel de resultados del Manchester United; el único posicionalista del mundo que nos gusta, Roberto De Zerbi, y qué puede hacer con el Tottenham; Andoni Iraola ante el gran salto de su carrera con el Liverpool; qué clase de entrenador es Álvaro Arbeloa ahora que toma las riendas del Fulham y más.Escucha la versión completa de este episodio PREMIUM de 1:36:47 de duración, apoya a que Alineación Indebida pueda prosperar, accede a todo nuestro contenido premium y a nuestro server de Discord suscribiéndote por tan sólo 1.00$/1.00€ en: Podcast: https://www.patreon.com/alineacionindebida/posts/que-esperar-de-y-166531665Vídeo: https://www.patreon.com/alineacionindebida/posts/video-que-de-los-166542197Además... Ahora, al suscribirte en nuestra página de Patreon, puedes escuchar todo nuestro contenido de Alineación Indebida Premium a través del siguiente link de Spotify. Sólo tienes que vincular la cuenta que abras en Patreon y, a partir de ahí, tendrás desbloqueado todo el contenido premium que producimos: https://open.spotify.com/show/6WeulpfbWFjVtLlpovT¡Volvemos pronto!Sigue a Ander: https://x.com/andershoffmanSigue a Óscar: https://x.com/OscarP107Sigue a Gonzalo: https://x.com/gonzalocarol29Sigue a Mavid: https://x.com/maviddataSigue al programa en Twitter: https://twitter.com/PodcastIndebidoSigue al programa en Instagram: instagram.com/podcastindebidoContacto: anderpodcast@gmail.com // alineacionindebidapodcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Chelsea show no signs of slowing in the transfer window as they welcome Spanish full back Pep Chavarria to Stamford Bridge, reinforcing Xabi Alonso's back line in the absence of Marc Cucurella. Elsewhere in London, Crystal Palace have swapped Brennan Johnson for Dwight McNeil with Everton in arguably the most mediocre transfer of all time. Futher north, Coventry are targetting a loan move for Chelsea winger Mikhailo Mudryk, who is returning from a doping ban and in need of a reboot to his career, which once had him valued at close to £100m. SUBSCRIBE NOW: https://footballsocialdaily.supportingcast.fm/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fsdpod?igsh=MjQ5d29veGdoMmZ4&utm_source=qr X: Football Social Daily (@FSDPod) on X TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@footballsocialdaily Telegram Group: Football Social Daily - Chat, Podcast and Match DiscussionMerch Store: FootballSocialDaily - Etsy UK Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Það styttist í nýtt tímabil í ensku úrvalsdeildinni og Fótbolti.net hitar vel upp að venju. Við ætlum að ræða við stuðningsmenn nokkurra af stærstu félögum Englands í hlaðvarpi núna á næstu dögum fyrir mót. Í dag er komið að því að heyra frá stuðningsmönnum Chelsea, þeim Stefáni Marteini og Haraldi Erni. Þeir mættu í Coke stúdíóið og fóru yfir stöðu mála. Xabi Alonso er tekinn við stjórnartaumunum og það er talsverð breyting frá Liam Rosenior. Chelsea er að koma úr hræðilegu tímabili og núna þurfa menn á Stamford Bridge að gera betur.

News broke this week that Sir Alex Ferguson had a verbal agreement for José Mourinho to succeed him at Manchester United back in 2013 — before Mourinho did a U-turn back to his beloved Chelsea. Mikel gives his honest verdict on what might have been, and explains why the Roman Abramovich pull was too strong to resist.Elsewhere, Vinicius Jr has ended Arsenal's transfer dream by signing a new six-year deal at Real Madrid. Mikel doesn't hold back on why the Gunners were never getting their man — and what it means for Mourinho's new-look Madrid alongside the club's stunning capture of Ivorian starlet Diomandé.Plus, Mikel runs the rule over Chelsea's 22-day transfer scramble under Xabi Alonso, reacts to Mykhaylo Mudryk's ban being lifted, weighs in on Mohamed Salah's shock move to Trabzonspor, and explains why Manchester City simply cannot afford to lose Rodri.

On this week's episode of The Joy of Football Podcast, Martin Tyler and Neil Barnett begin their 2026/27 Premier League season preview, taking an in-depth look at the first ten clubs alphabetically as the new campaign approaches. From champions Arsenal and a reshaped Chelsea, to newly promoted Coventry City, European hopefuls and teams simply looking to survive, Martin and Neil assess the transfers, managers, expectations and biggest questions facing each club. The preview begins with reigning Premier League champions Arsenal, as Martin and Neil discuss Mikel Arteta's attempts to retain the title following a season which also saw the Gunners reach the Champions League Final. New arrivals including Bruno Guimarães are assessed, while the pair discuss Arsenal's unsuccessful pursuit of Vinícius Júnior, whether the Premier League is still attracting the world's biggest individual stars, and whether a long domestic and European campaign followed by the FIFA World Cup could finally catch up with Arteta's squad. Attention then turns to Aston Villa, Bournemouth, Brentford and Brighton. Unai Emery faces another period of change at Villa Park following the departures of Morgan Rogers to Chelsea and Youri Tielemans to Manchester United, while Martin and Neil assess whether Villa can maintain their place among Europe's elite. They also look at Bournemouth's latest rebuild, Brentford's attempts to build on an impressive season and Brighton's seemingly endless ability to identify new talent while continuing to compete in Europe. In Martin's Letter From The Gantry, Martin returns to the commentary box for Colchester United against Southampton in the Carabao Cup, but the story extends far beyond the result. Following Southampton's expulsion from the Championship playoffs and the fallout from their controversial "Spygate" scandal, Martin reflects on a club attempting to rebuild trust, recover from an extraordinary punishment and turn adversity into motivation for another promotion challenge. The Premier League preview then resumes with Chelsea, Coventry City, Crystal Palace, Everton and Fulham. Chelsea begin a new era under Xabi Alonso after a dramatic summer of transfer activity, including the British record arrival of Morgan Rogers, while former Chelsea captain and manager Frank Lampard prepares to lead Championship winners Coventry back into the Premier League. Martin and Neil assess what constitutes success for both clubs before turning their attention to Crystal Palace, Everton and Fulham. Away from the individual clubs, Martin and Neil attempt to make sense of the Premier League's new financial landscape. With Profitability and Sustainability Rules (PSR) replaced by Squad Cost Ratio rules (SCR), they explain the new spending limits and debate whether football's financial regulations genuinely protect clubs or simply make it harder for ambitious sides such as Newcastle United and Aston Villa to challenge the established elite. Finally, with the Premier League season rapidly approaching, the pair debate one of the biggest consequences of the summer's FIFA World Cup. Players involved in the latter stages of the tournament are only now returning to their clubs, leaving some with just two weeks of pre-season training before the new campaign begins. Is that enough preparation for a Premier League footballer, or are clubs risking injuries and exhaustion before the season has even properly started? Martin and Neil, unsurprisingly, don't quite agree. #PremierLeague #PremierLeaguePreview #PremierLeague2026 #MartinTyler #FootballPodcast #Arsenal #Chelsea #AstonVilla #CoventryCity #CrystalPalace #Everton #Fulham #Brighton #Brentford #Bournemouth #MikelArteta #XabiAlonso #FrankLampard #MorganRogers #BrunoGuimaraes #ViniciusJunior #TransferNews #FIFAWorldCup #PSR #Football #TheJoyOfFootball Hosted by The Revive Lounge Ltd UCsdye1hUxP4xhgBx9zvuSjg Subscribe to https://youtube.com/@TheReviveLounge?si=L5ddzrJrtSmErtJ5 Support the Pod https://patreon.com/TheJoysofFootballPodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink Read us on Substack https://martintylerandneilbarnett.substack.com/ Follow our Twitter https://x.com/TheJOF Follow our Tik Tok https://www.tiktok.com/@joy_of_football_pod?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc Follow our Instagram https://https://www.instagram.com/joy_of_football_pod/ Contact us via: therevivelounge@gmail.com Music by Arron Clague - https://www.instagram.com/arronclague?igsh=aHg1bjQ3OHpmaXIz Intro Sequence by Wellong Sadewo (wells.illustration): https://www.instagram.com/wells.illustration/ A massive thank you to our Patreon Supporters: Nick Parmenter Hillary Abbott Daniel Butigan Tommy Mck Katie Watson Nathan A Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Preseason is over, Xabi Alonso's Bridge debut is this weekend, and somehow Chelsea are already a trophy up for the season. We name a standout, a disappointment, and admit we're more excited than we've been in years.Neither of us watched much of this preseason — that's the honest opener — but there was enough to draw conclusions from, and with Real Sociedad at the Bridge this weekend closing it out, we figured it was time to hand out awards. Real talk up front: Jason doesn't put much stock in preseason as a rule, and this year reinforced why. A “lock” (defensive player) got fouled heavily out there and it soured the whole exercise for him — friendlies should stay friendly. But even with the caveats, both of us walked away more optimistic about a Chelsea season than we've been in years.What Did We Actually Learn?Not as much as you'd hope. Morgan Rogers didn't feature at all before this week. Reece James didn't play a single preseason minute. Lacroix didn't play. Enzo's future is still unresolved. That's three, potentially four starters who never touched the pitch together, which means our attacking three of Rogers, Palmer, and João Pedro built zero preseason chemistry, and nobody has any real idea where Reece is even going to line up. The lineup against Johor Darul Ta'zim was about as academy-heavy as it gets — Sharman-Lowe in goal, a back three of Subuloye, Tosin, and Anselmino, Quenda and Gittens out wide, Essugo captaining a midfield with Nicoll-Jazuli, Estêvão in the hole, Jackson and Delap up top — and an almost unused bench because half the squad had already been sent home or was running on fumes from the match before. Coming out of it, we probably have as many questions as we went in with. Where does Reece play? Who does Lacroix actually replace? What happens to Quenda's minutes with Rogers, Neto, and Mudryk all wanting the same spots?The Squad Bloat Problem, AgainStill 45-ish players on the senior list, with Xabi reportedly wanting it down to 25. The transfer window closes September 1st at 6pm American time — three weeks from the recording date — and Chelsea still haven't moved Disasi, Badiashile, Tosin, Anselmino, Jackson, or Delap, plus Guiu still hanging around. People keep saying Chelsea are clearing deadwood. They aren't — a handful of academy loans doesn't count, and nobody wants to buy the players actually clogging the roster, because BlueCo overpriced them the first time around. The Athletic reported that some in the traveling party felt Xabi was running an A-team and B-team in preseason and that the B-team players sensed they weren't in his plans. Chelsea deny a formal two-tier system, but honestly — of course there's a pecking order forming. That's what a proper preseason is for. Some of you just aren't going to play. Fight for your spot.Standout of the Preseason: Marco PalestraUnanimous, and it isn't close. “Pastrami” was the best player in every match either of us caught — tireless, strong defensively, dangerous going forward, constantly getting up and down the right. He played right wing-back for Rúben Amorim at Sporting, so the position switch isn't new to him at all, and BlueCo, credit where due, got this signing right. Reigning Serie A Defender of the Season, and it showed. Other shoutouts: João Pedro for continuing exactly what he started last summer, Estêvão for looking the part again, Geovany Quenda for justifying a year of hype on this podcast alone, and Roméo Lavia — who, after three years at the club, finally completed a full 90 minutes. That's not a joke entry. That's the actual highlight some fans are pointing to.Worst of the Preseason: Tosin, Running Away With ItSome of the worst defending either of us has seen from a Chelsea player, full stop. We floated the theory that Tosin's entire remaining employment is a Cole Palmer loyalty play — Palmer goes to bat for his buddy, the club humors it, and now that Palmer has a new bestie in Morgan Rogers, maybe that's finally the door closing on Tosin. He's reportedly linked to Benfica, but the honest read is nobody sane pays real money for him — just cut the contract, since he cost nothing and there's no amortization to lose, and let him walk. Nico Jackson gets an honorable dishonorable mention: flashes of what he can do, still can't finish, and his framing in this Xabi system is genuinely unclear — a start-caliber player who might have to accept a bench role, when Chelsea might honestly rather have 35-year-old Danny Welbeck as the actual impact sub, because Welbeck finishes and Jackson doesn't. Also worth noting: Jackson volunteered to be subbed off early against Johor Darul Ta'zim specifically so Mudryk could get on the pitch before full time — genuinely selfless, and worth the shoutout on its own.Mudryk's Back, and So Is Austin MacPhee's TemperWe may have buried the lede on this one: Mudryk's actual return to a matchday shirt might have been the highlight of the whole preseason, full stop. And separately — Austin MacPhee, our set-piece coach and the man this podcast was talking up two weeks before anyone else noticed him, got caught on video screaming at a Johor Darul Ta'zim staffer to shut up after a nasty tackle on Liam Delap, to the point that Xabi Alonso had to physically pull him away. We'll take it. The man cares, and we're already crediting him for some genuinely sharp set-piece goals this preseason.We Also, Somehow, Won a TrophyBeating AC Milan came with the Indonesian Super Cup attached, which neither of us knew was on the line until the broadcast mentioned it mid-match. So: Xabi Alonso has technically already won a trophy at Chelsea. We're not rating it anywhere near a Community Shield or a UEFA Super Cup, let alone anything that matters, but you don't turn down a trophy. Put it in the cabinet and don't ask questions. Meanwhile Arsenal are probably about to win the actual Community Shield and spend the next several weeks reminding everyone about it — after a genuinely bad end to last season that this podcast watched in real time. Enjoy it while you can; Anthony Taylor isn't walking through that door to bail you out this year.Where This Leaves UsGenuinely more optimistic than last year, and for a specific reason: this is the first summer in the BlueCo era where our best players got proper rest. Cole Palmer and João Pedro skipped the World Cup and had a full offseason, unlike last year's fitness-compromised group. Reece James played 29 games and came out the other side of the World Cup okay, minus a one-match absence for a minor procedure. Jason's officially predicting a top-four finish this year — he didn't predict that last season — and thinks there's a real shot at silverware, while also, in the same breath, floating that Chelsea could bow out in the second round of the EFL Cup. Both things can be true. It's the first season in five years either of us has actually been excited about, and we're trying not to let that scare us.What's ComingSeason five of the podcast kicks off properly Monday with the official predictions episode. New for this season: a weekly Premier League predictions show (working title: Ten Wrongs in a Row), Thursday transfer coverage continuing until the window shuts and then pivoting to a looser Thursday live format, and the return of the Wheel — likely as a recurring “Us vs. The Wheel” segment letting a spin call one match's outcome a week. Suggestions for the shows are welcome in the comments. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit redwhitebluesfc.substack.com

On Episode 3 of Correspondent Week James is joined by Chelsea fan Gary Mantle to discuss what we can expect from the start of the Xabi Alonso era. That start involves a promising first 2, followed by a trip to Arsenal, but then a home encounter against Hull when Bruno Fernandes and Erling Haaland face each other. So who will be the go to Chelsea assets? Joao Pedro is highly owned, Morgan Rogers has arrived and Cole Palmer is the most expensive. There's also big coverage of all three, plus how other new signings Maxence Lacroix and Marco Palestra, why the club has bought Jordan Henderson and Danny Welbeck and lots more on a bloated squad, which could end up playing more than one formation. Next on Correspondent Week: ep. 4 with Alex Trembath on Manchester United Tomorrow on Planet FPL: Correspondent Week episodes 5-8 with Lewis James on Fulham, Ed Salinger on Leeds, Danny Macdonald on Hull and Lee Jackson on Aston Villa And on Patreon: The Debrief with Suj and James on today's four Podcasts (BT+) and After The Podcast with today's Correspondents (IT+) The full schedule for Correspondent Week can be found here: https://www.patreon.com/planetfpl/posts/correspondent-166192123 Want to become a member of our FPL community and support the Podcast?  Join us on Patreon: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.patreon.com/planetfpl⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow James on Twitter/x: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://twitter.com/PlanetFPLPod⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow Suj on Twitter/x: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://twitter.com/sujanshah⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow Clayton on Twitter/x: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://twitter.com/claytsAFC⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow Nico on Twitter/x: https://twitter.com/nico_semedo Subscribe to our YouTube channel: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@PlanetFPL⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Like us on Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/planetfpl⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow us on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/planetfpl⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ #FantasyPremierLeague #FPL #Chelsea Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Tom Clarke is joined by Alyson Rudd, Gary Jacob and Tony Cascarino to continue the build up to the new Premier League season which is less than two weeks away!Bruno Guimares has signed for champions Arsenal, we ask what impact the Brazilian will have on the Gunners midfield and we herald the return of experienced and sensible transfers after they shelled out £75 million for the 28 year old.One Brazilian in the door, but another one will be staying in Madrid, we ask who the Gunners should turn to now that Vinicius Jnr has chosen to stay in Madrid, and if Marcus Rashford is a realistic option to fill the void on the left wing.Elsewhere Tony tells us why he's so excited by what Chelsea can do under Xabi Alonso, we ask if Spurs can get back into top 5 under Roberto De Zerbi and can Oliver Glasner last the full season under Evangelos Marinakis? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Red, White & Blues FC | Butterfly Tattoos, a Mid-Episode Signing, and City CirclingChalobah's gone, City want three of ours, Chelsea completed a transfer while we were literally recording, and we made a tattoo pact on air. Normal Thursday.We open the only correct way — laughing at Arsenal, who apparently believed they had a shot at Vinícius Júnior right up until he pointed out he isn't tired of winning Champions Leagues yet. From there it's a rumor-mill episode, because there's exactly one confirmed piece of Chelsea business this week and about fifteen things that might be. Jason delivers a full monologue on why transfer season is the footballing equivalent of being cornered by someone describing their dream. And then, halfway through the Enzo conversation, Fabrizio broke a deal live and we had a new signing before the episode ended.Farewell, Trevoh ChalobahThe one concrete thing: Chalobah is officially a Como player, €30m plus €6m in add-ons. He'd been at the club roughly twenty years and BlueCo never knew what to do with him — treated like an afterthought, shipped out on loan, brought back, never quite trusted. Neither of us pretends he was world class, but that was always fine. He was an excellent role player who could cover injuries, give you cup minutes, and actually loved Chelsea, and you need those in a squad. He was better than Disasi, better than Badiashile, and frequently better than Fofana. Thanks, Trev. Enjoy Italy. BlueCo got their £30m of pure profit.The Rumor Mill: Osimhen, Diogo Costa, and Too Many DefendersTottenham have made an offer for Victor Osimhen, so naturally Chelsea might go back in for Osimhen — because they have a toy and now we want the toy. That's three summers running. It fell apart on wages last time, he's two years older, and nothing about the math has changed. More interesting: Portuguese reports have Chelsea in talks for Diogo Costa and ready to match his €60m release clause, which is the one goalkeeper move we're both fully on board with, even if he'd be inheriting the same shambolic back line. On which — do we need more defenders? Yes, but we still have Disasi, Badiashile, Tosin, Mamadou Sarr, and Aarón Anselmino sitting there, and only the last two have youth as an excuse. Badiashile's linked to Napoli, Tosin reportedly has “lots of interest” per Fabrizio (please, take him), and Crystal Palace have submitted a loan with an obligation to buy for Disasi — take it, take five pounds, just get out of the Disasi business. Move those three and you're left with Fofana, Lacroix, Colwill, Anselmino and Hato covering in, which is enough. Sell this summer, clear the deadwood, buy quality next year once we're back in the Champions League.The Butterfly Tattoo PactThen the bad news: Chelsea are reportedly leaning toward a transfer or loan for Mudryk to Strasbourg. We said on Monday we'd riot, and we meant it — this administration was already dead to Jason, and he's not sure what's past dead. Daniel's position is that if Mudryk leaves, the title dream is gone, Champions League is gone, we're in the Conference League, we might not qualify for Europe at all. His actual vision for the season: Chelsea win the league by three points because Mudryk comes off the bench to score a 90th-minute winner against Arsenal in a 2-1. And so the pact, arrived at independently by both of us, which is what almost thirty years of friendship does to two people: if Mudryk stays and Chelsea win the league, we both get the exact butterfly tattoo. One cheek each. Possibly a wing apiece so we can moon people in formation. The one loan destination we'd actually enjoy is Coventry, purely to watch Frank Lampard coach up Mudryk — and it's genuinely nice to see Lamps is a good manager after all, just one who was handed two impossible situations at Chelsea.City Want Three of Ours, and Has Enzo Peaked?Manchester City have been linked with three Chelsea players in one day: Malo Gusto at £75m, Pedro Neto around £70m, and now Enzo Fernández, with Rodri reportedly off to Barcelona and Maresca wanting Enzo as the replacement. The Gusto number is Chelsea pricing a player so he doesn't sell — City said interested, but absolutely not at 75, which is what anyone with a footballing brain would say. Neto's number, by contrast, is priced to be paid, and the official line that he's “a very important part of the squad but the price would have to be right” translates cleanly as: we'll sell him tomorrow to a big enough sucker. Neither of us will miss Neto, a player who does almost nothing with an enormous amount of talent and whose main skill is spamming crosses without knowing where they're going. The Enzo conversation is the meatiest thing in the episode. Has he peaked? Jason thinks roughly yes — 20 goal contributions a year is his ceiling, and last season's 10 goals and 4 assists are attacking-midfielder numbers, not the Fàbregas-style controller you'd want beside Caicedo. That's exactly why the pivot fails: Caicedo drops to a fifth defender, Enzo pushes forward, and Chelsea simply cede the middle of the pitch, which is what Maresca did to us all season. Lavia is the right profile, if Lavia could ever string together ninety minutes, which in three years he hasn't. We both like Enzo, both think he plays hard for the badge — and both suspect he's a mercenary who'd play just as hard for City's badge the moment they pay him.And Then We Signed Someone Mid-EpisodePep Chavarría to Chelsea, broken by Fabrizio while we were recording: €19m plus €2m in add-ons, flying for a medical, signatures the same night. A 28-year-old left back from Rayo Vallecano who has never been capped by Spain. Daniel's verdict is blunt — this is not a Xabi Alonso signing, this is 100% a BlueCo signing, and the idea that every arrival this window is an Alonso pick is a narrative the club is happy to let run. In fairness, Chelsea genuinely don't have a left back since Cucurella left; Hato can do it but is better at left center back, and Palestra can technically cover. The question is whether we've just bought a starter or a very expensive backup. Elsewhere in the Juventus match: Hato started at left back, Palestra and Quenda linked up well on the right and Quenda had a strong first half, Fofana has publicly announced he wants to prove he can be the player we thought he was before the injuries — which mostly tells you he knows what the rest of us know. The squad is bloated, more players keep arriving, and the thing Chelsea are worst at is the thing they most urgently need to do. As Jason puts it: BlueCo aren't bad at selling players, they're bad at buying them, and then they have to sell the bad players they bought, and nobody wants them because they're bad.Programming NoteThe live Thursday show didn't happen this week and probably won't next week either — most likely we kick it off properly when the season starts. We need a name for it, so drop suggestions in the comments. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit redwhitebluesfc.substack.com

Xabi Alonso has two unsolved problems going into the season — goalkeeper and central midfield — and Chris and Joe work through why neither gets fixed by the transfer business done so far. Robert Sanchez versus Mike Penders gets a proper airing, Tosin Adarabioyo's continued involvement baffles them both, and outgoings (Trevoh Chalobah, Malo Gusto, Pedro Neto, Nicolas Jackson, and more) are weighed against incomings. Then the dark horses question: with pundits tipping Chelsea for a top-four finish or better, where do they actually land? -- *Meet the Hosts* Chris Sheen and Joe Kevin are lifelong Chelsea fans who've been going to Stamford Bridge for over 30 years. What started as swapping post-match voicenotes has grown into a fan pod capturing the highs, the lows, and everything in between from Gate 13 of the Matthew Harding Stand. *The 1905 Podcast* Chelsea FC Founded: 1905 European Champions: 19/05

In this episode the team discuss their Winners & Losers from Chelsea's third pre-season game of the 2026/27 season.The team also talk the latest from this week's news and as always also answer some listener questions.RUNNING ORDER:00:00 The Start, Shevva's Shoutouts & Richard Keys11:53 News: Xabi Alonso Signs Some Shirts16:02 Winners & Losers: Chelsea 0-1 Juventus1:02:58 Quaresma's Questions1:09:17 Loan Army CarouselIf you have a question for the team then contact them on Twitter at @AtTheBridgePod(This episode was recorded on 6th August 2026)*** Please take the time to rate and review us on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your pods. It means a great deal to the show and will make it easier for other potential listeners to find us. Thanks!*** Join our Discord: https://discord.gg/b3arBztQjnThis episode is proudly supported by Head In The Game, a charity using football to support mental health and wellbeing. Check out their free programs at headinthegame.co.uk and follow them on social media to learn more._______________________________________________Get In Touch With Us:Twitter - twitter.com/AtTheBridgePodInstagram - Instagram.com/AtTheBridgePod#CFC #CHELSEA

Chelsea have officially integrated Geovany Quenda into the squad following his long-awaited arrival from Sporting CP in a deal worth up to €52.1 million. In this episode, we unpack the slow-cooked transfer strategy behind the 19-year-old's signing, look back at his breakout domestic double under Rúben Amorim, and evaluate how Xabi Alonso plans to harness the teenager's versatile, explosive skill set in the Premier League. `GeovanyQuenda` `ChelseaFC` `SportingCP` `XabiAlonso` `PremierLeagueTransfers` `RubenAmorim` `LigaPortugal` `TacticalAnalysis` `FootballPodcast`

Chelsea have received a stunning mid-tour boost with Mykhailo Mudryk cleared to return to football following a twenty-one-month ban settlement. In this episode, we unpack the technicalities behind the FA's rule adjustment, Mudryk's return under new manager Xabi Alonso, and what the 25-year-old winger needs to do to reintegrate into a squad currently touring Asia. `MykhailoMudryk` `ChelseaFC` `PremierLeague` `XabiAlonso` `FA` `Meldonium` `TransferNews` `FootballPodcast`

Red, White & Blues FC | Mudryk Is Back, Infantino Tried to Sell the World CupChelsea have been made whole again. Also, the president of FIFA attempted a legal bribe in broad daylight and it blew up in his face.Big things happening, big people back, old people here, and Infantino is an asshole — that's the episode in one line. Mykhailo Mudryk is finally cleared and back at Chelsea after twenty months away, which sends Daniel into a full state of rapture and Jason into a state of mild concern about it. Then we get into a preseason loss to ten-man Tottenham that neither of us can confirm actually happened, two deals that went official today, and the small matter of FIFA nearly spinning the World Cup off into a private equity vehicle. There's no transfer deep-dive here — that's Thursday, and we've got an announcement about Thursday at the end.Welcome Back, KingMudryk is back for two more years and Daniel is not being ironic about how happy he is — well, mostly not. The man everybody puts their hopes and dreams into, who constantly disappoints us, and whom we love anyway, butterfly tattoos and all. The infuriating part is the timing: the rules changed after he got popped, and if the same result came in today no charge would have been brought at all. He lost twenty months of his career to a process that dragged. So, some house rules going forward — don't leave your drinks unattended, don't take supplements, fire the virtual doctor, become a vegan, get it straight from the source. The training photo of Mudryk and Estêvão together in Hong Kong is Daniel's new favorite Chelsea picture ever, and on the strength of it alone he has decided we're winning the league. Peak Eden Hazard season. Then the Strasbourg loan rumor surfaced and the joy curdled instantly: send Gittens for the reps, Mudryk doesn't need them. Over/under on a red card in his first match remains open.A Loss to Ten-Man Tottenham That May or May Not Have OccurredNeither of us watched it, so neither of us can confirm nor deny. Let Tottenham have it — it's preseason, and God knows they need something. Estêvão scored, other people spent the afternoon trying to take our players out, and the only thing that actually matters is that we came out of Australia without injuries. The pitches on this tour have been rubbish, no Ed Sheeran required this time. Lavia played and did not get hurt, which we're treating as a minor miracle, and Jason would like Estêvão laying healing hands on the entire locker room for the full season. Wednesday's Juventus match is at Kai Tak Sports Park in Hong Kong, and Daniel's faith in a decent surface rests entirely on the theory that the hosts won't want to look bad — unlike whatever repurposed rugby pitch we were playing on in Australia.The Bushwhackers Are Officially Chelsea PlayersDanny Welbeck and Jordan Henderson have both been formally announced, which prompts several minutes of the two of us doing the Bushwhackers arm-swing at each other. Careful, lads, you'll sprain something. The mental image we can't shake is Welbeck and Henderson coming off the bench while Estêvão and Mudryk heckle them from the sideline — Henderson, don't use your arms to break your fall, your bones are brittle. He's going to concede a handball and break his arm doing it. Elsewhere: Geovany Quenda is with the squad now and we're hoping to see his Chelsea debut, two deals went official today with Trevoh Chalobah joining Como and Valentín Barco finally being confirmed as a Chelsea player — a signing we're fairly sure was announced two months ago, and one that even Rory apparently missed, given he quote-tweeted his own World Cup post about what a little shit Barco was to Bellingham to ask whether the guy is a Chelsea player now. One of the foremost Chelsea pundits in the world, everybody.Infantino Tried to Sell Shares in the World CupThe main event. FIFA's plan was to spin the commercial side into a standalone company — FIFA Forward Enterprises, valued around $20 billion — sell shares to private equity, and distribute the proceeds to member federations, with FIFA itself staying a nonprofit handling the sport. Call it what it is: a legal bribe. Infantino's pitch was effectively “vote no and you get $2.7 billion, vote yes and you get ten,” plus a rumor he'd personally clear about $30 million if it went through. The man ran on transparency and, to be fair, he's being extremely transparent about the bribery. What's new isn't the corruption — we know FIFA, we remember Blatter and the brown envelopes and how Qatar got a World Cup, and we get into how confederations quietly print money reselling allocated tickets at multiples of face value. What's new is the brazenness. CONCACAF and UEFA came out against it, UEFA threatened an outright boycott without mincing words, the plan leaked before it could even be pitched, and by the time we're recording Infantino has scrapped it. Now the question is whether he survives it. He's currently running unopposed ahead of the March 2027 election, and if UEFA and CONCACAF can agree on a single challenger, the math gets very interesting. This is the Super League all over again: fans will tolerate a lot, but not a small group openly centralizing the money and taking the whole pie.What We're Actually Looking Forward ToWe close on the honest question, and both answers come back to the same man. Jason's is Xabi Alonso — the first time since Tuchel was fired that he's been excited to watch a coach cook. After Potter, after Lampard going through the motions, after Pochettino shitting the bed until the last six matches, after Maresca abandoning us for City, this is a manager who can command a locker room and has the résumé to back it. He'd rather have European football, but no Wednesdays and no Thursdays means a low-pressure season, and after four relentlessly negative years the prospect of just watching Chelsea play without the BlueCo drama is its own reward. Daniel's answer is simpler: he's excited to be excited. Quenda and Estêvão, Palmer, João Pedro, Mudryk back in the building, Xabi in charge. Still holes at goalkeeper and in defense, still no idea how a back four is going to work, still question marks about locker-room management. And when Daniel asks how long before it all comes crashing down, Jason gives him three months — because December is coming, and December always comes.One More ThingStarting this Thursday, the transfer episode goes live. 6:15pm-ish on YouTube and X, questions and opinions welcome in the chat. Bring your bell notifications. Tonight's episode is brought to you by the tilde, which means approximately. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit redwhitebluesfc.substack.com

José Mourinho is back at Real Madrid, where Endrick scored in a 2–2 preseason draw with Fiorentina. Jamie Rudd looks at Madrid's new era, Chelsea's reported €255 million spending spree under Xabi Alonso, AC Milan's club-record move for Gonçalo Ramos, Newcastle's potential fire sale, and the latest Premier League rebuilds.Subscribe for Premier League, MLS and Champions League coverage.AI was used for news gathering and production assistance.#RealMadrid #Mourinho #Endrick #Chelsea #XabiAlonso #ACMilan #GoncaloRamos #Newcastle #Transfers #Football #SoccerAI gave us an assist in the creation of today's podcast, but the hat trick is our own.

Red, White & Blues FC | Old FC: Lacroix, Welbeck, Henderson, and a Squad Nobody Will BuyChelsea finally bought a center back, then signed two 35-year-olds, and still haven't sold a single one of the players clogging the squad. Daniel called it. Jason owes him a rubber duck.Daniel predicted on Monday that Chelsea were turning into Old FC, and by Thursday the club had gone and proved him right, so the predictions baton — an actual rubber duck — changes hands next weekend. This is a pure transfer episode: Maxence Lacroix in from Crystal Palace for £52m, Danny Welbeck in from Brighton, Jordan Henderson in on a free, and absolutely nobody going the other way. We save the UEFA and Infantino mess for Monday. What we've got here instead is a squad getting more bloated by the week, a set of owners who still can't sell anybody, and one manager we're both quietly leaning on to make sense of it all.Maxence Lacroix, or “Mid With Hope”The center back BlueCo couldn't get for our manager last summer finally arrives — £52m, 26 years old, and the first player over 26 Chelsea have signed since 2022. Jason's verdict lands on a phrase we're keeping: mid with hope. Lacroix is Premier League proven with a genuinely excellent injury record — barely a match missed since arriving in England, one 71-day shoulder problem at Wolfsburg, and a bout of COVID. But he's a back-three center back who played in a back three at Palace, and if you stick him next to Levi Colwill in a four, we're worried. When Saliba went off at the World Cup and Lacroix came in, France's defense fell apart and he had a couple of knucklehead moments. And the comparison set is the problem: is he better than Wesley Fofana, Trevoh Chalobah, Axel Disasi, Benoît Badiashile? Probably. By how much? We wanted a stalwart to lock down next to Colwill for six years. We got another player we'll be arguing about in January.And What Happens to Josh Acheampong?The saddest thread of the night. Simon Johnson reported Chelsea rate Josh Acheampong so highly they've labeled him untouchable and keep rebuffing approaches — while simultaneously signing over the top of him and barely playing him. Maresca gave him almost nothing last season, which made it close to a wasted year, and now Lacroix arrives on the right side of the defense and blocks him again. We both want the same thing for him: a loan. It's exactly what worked for Colwill, who went out twice and came back a starter. Send him to a Championship side, send him to a bottom-half Premier League club, hell, send him to Lamps at Coventry — anything but another season of training at Cobham. If Josh comes out and asks to leave, neither of us would be shocked, and neither of us would blame him.Old FC Arrives: Welbeck, Henderson, and the Pendulum ProblemThen the big one. Two 35-plus signings in a week — Danny Welbeck from Brighton for an undisclosed fee, and Jordan Henderson on a free. Welbeck, Daniel can be talked into: one of the league's best bench goalscorers, and he's personally tormented Chelsea for three years, so at minimum we stop suffering. But the fee being undisclosed tells Daniel we overpaid, and because it's Brighton, we definitely overpaid. Henderson, though, nobody can sell us on. He's not closing out matches at 36, and the “he'll bring maturity and help Xabi from the sideline” argument doesn't land when we're still a squad of shitheads who'll do shithead things. The deeper frustration is that this is BlueCo overcorrecting: Chelsea fans asked for experience for four years, and instead of a 27- or 28-year-old who can still contribute, the pendulum swung straight past to two guys a step from retirement. The Reddit meme says it best — red pill, blue pill, below 21 or above 35, pick your poison. And it's not like there was competition. There was no secret race for Danny Welbeck.The Real Problem: Chelsea Can't Sell AnybodyUnderneath every complaint tonight is the same structural issue. Chelsea bring in a fourth backup striker while Nicolas Jackson, Liam Delap, and Marc Guiu are all still here. They buy shitty players, then demand astronomical fees for those shitty players because they're trying to recoup, which is exactly why Badiashile's fee can't be agreed and why Disasi can't be shifted. Delap cost £30m, got hurt for a chunk of the season, scored two goals in the League Cup, and is now valued at £35–40m — which only works if you find another sucker club, and Arsenal can't be the sucker club every single window. Jackson's valued around $60m, which is the same overvaluation that pushed him out on loan to Bayern last year. Add the loans we part-subsidize and the picture is a club that talks about buying while the bloat gets worse. Elsewhere in the rumor pile: Badiashile to Napoli on loan with an option nobody expects Napoli to exercise, Filip Jørgensen off the tour and headed to Strasbourg (our sincere apologies, Strasbourg — you've deserved better, and you've had Andrey Santos and Emegha work out fine), Pedro Neto priced somewhere near £70–80m because Chelsea are using this summer's winger fees as their benchmark, Kendry Páez on the loan list again with attitude questions, Kerim Alajbegović off to Juventus rather than be a project player here, Murillo linked out of a Brazilian outlet, Alex Scott still circling as the midfielder we'd sign only if Enzo goes, and Mamadou Sarr needing an English loan after we wrecked his season for no reason.Lewis Hall, and the Part That Actually HurtsThe one that gets us: Chelsea want Lewis Hall back. Our own academy player, sold by BlueCo, now reportedly no fan of the club, and the plan is apparently to lean on Xabi Alonso to charm him home. We both like Hall. That's the point. Buying back a homegrown kid you never should have sold doesn't read as humility, it reads as incompetence — and what does it do to your precious pure-profit column? That takes us into the closing rant, and it's the honest one. We're watching a club run by people who are demonstrably brilliant at private equity and demonstrably clueless at football, and Paul Winstanley and Laurence Stewart should have been gone years ago instead of collecting raises. Jason's tempering the hype this time — he rode the train last season and it blew up — but he'll admit Xabi is the only reason any of this holds together, because unlike the last few, this one has actually walked the walk. And Daniel's first bold prediction of the season: Jordan Henderson will spend more time in the infirmary with Roméo Lavia than with any other midfielder. Lavia, naturally, is already hurt. It's preseason. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit redwhitebluesfc.substack.com

Chelsea have dropped the biggest transfer statement of the window, shattering the British record to sign Morgan Rogers from Aston Villa for £117 million. In this episode, we unpack how the 23-year-old leapfrogged Elliot Anderson to become the most expensive British footballer in history.From his pivotal role in Villa's Europa League triumph to his standout performances for England at the 2026 World Cup under Xabi Alonso's tactical blueprint, we analyze Rogers' unique blend of physicality and close control, evaluate his staggering 38 Premier League goal involvements, and discuss the immense pressure that comes with a nine-figure Stamford Bridge price tag. `MorganRogers` `ChelseaFC` `AstonVilla` `XabiAlonso` `Premier League Transfers` `British Transfer Record` `World Cup 2026` `Stamford Bridge` `Tactical Analysis`

What a dramatic day! Tom Clarke is joined by Alyson Rudd, Tom Allnutt and James Gheerbrant to discuss FIFA, Gianni Infantino and their plans to sell the World Cup.The panel call for action and a strong response and before we could finish editing we got that strong response, as UEFA announce they will boycott all future FIFA competitions - Tom rejoined the show to give us the latest.As if that wasn't busy enough, in part two the team discuss Eddie Howe's shock departure from Newcastle, Chelsea's surprise pursuit of Jordan Henderson and wonder if Xabi Alonso's team will be title challengers.There is also transfer talk too as Tottenham vow to make another 'bomba' signing and Liverpool eye Bradley Barcola. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Chelsea are putting their money where their mouth is under Xabi Alonso, completing the signings of Danny Welbeck and Jordan Henderson in moves that signal a clear and deliberate pivot in transfer strategy — experience, leadership, and character alongside the youth and talent already in the building. After years of signing players for potential and profit, Chelsea are finally signing players for the dressing room. It feels different. It feels right.Simon and Manny open with a full review of Chelsea's first pre-season friendly — a wildly entertaining 6-4 win over Western Sydney Wanderers that tells you very little about defensive solidity but everything about the attacking intent and energy Xabi Alonso is already installing in this squad. Pre-season results mean nothing, but the football was a joy and the hosts cannot help but feel the buzz of a fresh start under a world class manager.Then the episode the Chelsea Against The World audience has been waiting for — the complete squad inventory. Simon and Manny go player by player through the entire Chelsea roster and give their honest, unfiltered verdicts. Who stays? Who goes? Who gets shipped out on loan to develop? Who has played their last game in a Chelsea shirt whether they know it or not? No player is safe from scrutiny and no opinion is held back. From the first team regulars to the forgotten names buried in the squad, this is the definitive CATW guide to what the Xabi Alonso era should look like on paper.This is essential listening for every Chelsea fan heading into what could finally be the most exciting season in years under the most exciting manager in world football.

The Game is back on tour, speaking with Pete Rutzler who is following Chelsea (and Spurs) down under. The Blues have been spending big, will there be any out goings and how will new manager Xabi Alonso deploy his new talent?Ian Whittell is in America following Liverpool's tour and saw their first preseason game against Sunderland. Who caught the eye, how is Iraola adapting and will there be more signings?After the break Tom Clarke joins Ian Hawkey to break down the international manager scene with Klopp and Tuchel already in post could Guardiola or Conte be joining them? And how will Mourinho get on at Madrid? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Beautiful Game Podcast - Episode 149 - EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW NIGEL JAMES - We sat down with Nigel James to discuss his incredible career in football. We also spoke about #BlueCo's ownership of #Chelsea, Reece #James and Lauren James, Xabi #Alonso as Chelsea's new manager, the club's Premier League title chances, and much more.00:00 Intro1:10: Competition giveaway1:50: Guest introduction3:19: Overview of Nigel James Elite Coaching School success8:47: Why is it called a coaching school instead of an academy16:18: Criteria for kids joining his coaching school17:32: Dealing with disgruntled parents20:48: Dealing with abuse from opposition24:06: The one thing he would have changed in Reece and Lauren's development28:45: Regret of not having his eldest son playing football31:37: Assessing Lauren's 25/26 season33:04: Deep dive into Lauren's personality34:27: Can Lauren turn into a leader within the dressing room37:20: Interest in Lauren before she signed a new deal40:37: How hard is it to let go of control as a parent47:10: Lauren's relationship with coaches48:11: Alexia Putellas signing for London City Lionesses49:14: Lauren potentially winning the Ballon d'Or51:01: Assessing Reece's 25/26 season57:49: Xabi Alonso appointment59:23: Thoughts on BlueCo1:02:08: John Stones being mentioned to him1:04:40: Chelsea's targets1:06:06: Liam Rosenior1:06:52: Thoughts on the World Cup1:11:24: Rio Ngumoha and Max Dowman1:13:14: Thoughts on England vs Mexico1:14:13: Thoughts on Jude Bellingham1:15:50: Will Reece be fit for Norway?1:16:39: Donald Trump involvement1:19:09: Final thoughts and outro Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The NN Pod continues its 2026/27 season preview by assessing the Premier League field and asking the central question: who is best placed to challenge Arsenal's title defence?The hosts work through the promoted clubs, the teams fighting to escape the bottom half and the contenders navigating major managerial and squad changes. Spurs begin a full season under Roberto De Zerbi, Newcastle turn towards youth, Chelsea gamble on Xabi Alonso and Liverpool place their rebuild in the hands of Andoni Iraola, while Manchester United, Aston Villa and Manchester City all face significant questions of their own.There is also a wider debate about stability, recruitment and whether Arsenal's biggest advantage is simply being the only leading side with genuine continuity. With the transfer window still open and several rivals in transition, the episode considers whether Manchester City remain the main threat, whether another challenger can emerge and how much Arsenal must capitalise on the uncertainty around them.Chapters:(00:00) - Arteta's Non-Negotiables & Intro(01:02) - Promoted Clubs: Hull, Ipswich & Coventry(03:54) - Tottenham's Rebuild Under De Zerbi(07:30) - Nottingham Forest & Oliver Glasner(08:35) - Crystal Palace After Glasner(09:49) - Leeds United's Survival Prospects(11:24) - Everton's Stability Under Moyes(13:58) - Newcastle's Project Youth(19:09) - Fulham & the Arbeloa Gamble(20:56) - Chelsea, Xabi Alonso & a Leadership Void(27:32) - Can Brentford Build on Last Season?(28:40) - Brighton Raise Expectations(31:56) - Sunderland's Difficult Second Season(33:37) - Bournemouth After Iraola(37:54) - Liverpool's Rebuild & Recruitment Questions(44:16) - Aston Villa's Eventful Summer(47:37) - Manchester United & Showbiz FC(53:43) - Did Arsenal Get Lucky With Their Rebuild?(58:32) - Manchester City's Post-Pep Era(01:05:48) - The Manchester City Charges Debate(01:12:21) - Who's Coming for Arsenal's Crown?(01:16:37) - Outro & What's Next