Player Development

Join our NEW YouTube page here: https://www.youtube.com/@ModernSoccerCoachTV In this week’s Modern Soccer Coach podcast, I sat down with US Soccer Sporting Director Matt Crocker for an honest conversation about the future of player development in the United States. If the goal is to become a consistent World Cup contender — not just a nation capable of a one-off run — then the biggest shift cannot happen at senior level. It has to happen in the environments where young players are developed every day. We discussed the numbers behind elite performance, the importance of practice time, the pressure coaches feel to win at younger ages, and why US Soccer is choosing to influence rather than dictate change across the landscape. One theme stood out clearly: there is a difference between a winning mentality and a win-at-all-costs mentality. Elite performance begins with joy. When children feel psychologically safe, encouraged to experiment, and supported as individuals, they build the creativity, confidence, and resilience required at the highest level. If we prioritize short-term results over long-term development, we risk limiting both participation and potential. The pathway to elite soccer is not built on pressure alone — it is built on environments where players love the game enough to invest the thousands of hours required to master it. A big thank you to Zone 14 Coaching for supporting this episode. Their NextGen journals for coaches and players are designed to bring structure, reflection, and intentional learning into the training process — helping coaches plan with clarity and players track their development throughout the season. You can learn more at zone14coaching.com and use the code MODERNSOCCER5 for $5 off.

Those Qarabağ boys didn't go down without a fight! Newcastle already had one foot in the round of 16, which allowed Eddie Howe to give Nick Woltemade a run out in midfield. It wasn't pretty, but I guess it kind of worked? Pete tells Marcus and Jim why Newcastle need to be patient with big Nick. Plus, Bodø/Glimt deliver a huge shock as they knock Sporting Clube de Inter Milan out of the Champions League, Joe Hart becomes a coach for a day, and Snoop Dogg leaves a stench in the Swansea City tunnel. Find us on Bluesky, X, Instagram, TikTok and YouTube, and email us here: [email protected]. Sign up to the Football Ramble Patreon for ad-free shows for just $5 per month: https://www.patreon.com/footballramble. ***Please take the time to rate us on your podcast app. It means a great deal to the show and will make it easier for other potential listeners to find us. Thanks!*** The Football Ramble, the original and best football podcast. Brand new podcasts every single weekday. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Send us Fan Mail (https://www.buzzsprout.com/247200/fan_mail/new) 🎙️ Episode 122: Coach’s Voice (Episode 1) Episode 122 marks the launch of our brand-new Coach’s Voice series — where the conversation starts with you. In this first edition, Scott and Ray respond to four thought-provoking questions sent in by coaches who listen to the podcast. These are real challenges from real environments, and the discussion is honest, practical, and grounded in lived coaching experience. This episode is less about theory — and more about the realities of coaching in today’s game. 🗣️ The four questions discussed: ⚽ 1. The Match Day Environment How do we create a match day atmosphere that supports development rather than fear? Scott and Ray explore the role of the coach on game day, emotional tone, parent behaviour, and how match day can either reinforce or undo the work done during the week. 💭 2. Building (and Protecting) Player Confidence What does confidence really mean in young players — and how easily can we damage it? The conversation explores the difference between praise and belief, the impact of language, and why confidence is often built through challenge, not comfort. 🎯 3. Over-Coaching Are we saying too much? Scott and Ray reflect on the temptation to control every moment, the dangers of constant instruction, and why silence can sometimes be the most powerful intervention a coach can make. 🧩 4. Tactics & Structure vs Freedom & Creativity How much structure is too much? Where is the balance between giving players a framework and allowing them to solve problems? The discussion dives into whether rigid tactical systems can unintentionally limit game intelligence — and how coaches can design structure that still allows expression. Throughout the episode, Scott and Ray share practical examples from their own environments, challenge common coaching habits, and encourage deeper reflection on how our behaviours shape player experience. This is an episode designed to make you think about how you show up — on the grass, on the sideline, and in your communication. 🎧 Coach’s Voice – Get Involved Coach’s Voice episodes are driven by you. We invite coaches to: • Send in a voice note (up to 2 minutes) sharing a question, dilemma, idea, or opinion • Be reflective, honest, even challenging • Help shape future episodes of the podcast Selected submissions will be played on the show and used as the starting point for discussion. A couple of simple guidelines: • Please don’t use player names • If discussing sensitive topics, avoid naming clubs • If you’d rather not record audio, you can email your question instead 📩 Send voice notes or emails to: [email protected] Thanks for listening — and if one of these questions resonated with you, share the episode with a fellow coach. Your voice matters. This episode was brought to you in association with our friends at Soccer Coach Weekly. Established since 2006, Soccer Coach Weekly is a leading source of inspiration and advice for all grassroots coaches. Join thousands of youth soccer coaches, just like you, saving time and effort in their goal of having the most effective, enjoyable and successful coaching journey for them and their players. – https://www.soccercoachweekly.net/ Thanks for listening and we hope you enjoyed the episode!

Send us Fan Mail 🎙️ Episode 122: Coach’s Voice (Episode 1) Episode 122 marks the launch of our brand-new Coach’s Voice series — where the conversation starts with you. In this first edition, Scott and Ray respond to four thought-provoking questions sent in by coaches who listen to the podcast. These are real challenges from real environments, and the discussion is honest, practical, and grounded in lived coaching experience. This episode is less about theory — and more about the realities of ...

Tab Ramos and Matt Doyle examine the impact of Josh Sargent’s move to Major League Soccer and where he fits in the USMNT No. 9 depth chart behind Folarin Balogun and Ricardo Pepi. They also raise concerns about Tyler Adams’ return to the Premier League and discuss potential World Cup replacements if needed. The duo ranks their Top 5 MLS players who must impress Mauricio Pochettino to earn a look in the March friendlies, and Tab shares the story of when U.S. Soccer made the leap from likable underdog to true professionals. Plus, they break down the next step the United States must take to become a genuine global soccer power. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Check out Zone14 and get $5 off your order at Zone14Coaching.com using the code ModernSoccer5. What is happening to positional play in the modern game? In this episode of the Modern Soccer Coach Podcast, Gary Curneen sits down again with Bernat Mosquera to explore how football is evolving beyond rigid structures and fixed positions. We dive into the shift from “playing the game model” to playing what is actually happening in front of you. The rise of generalists. The importance of specialists. The impact of man-marking. The changing nature of space. And why rhythm and tempo may be the next tactical frontier. Bernat challenges a lot of current thinking. Are we overvaluing structure? Are we missing the emotional side of the game? Are small-space habits limiting our players? And what does training need to look like if we want dynamic, adaptable footballers? If you’re a coach thinking deeply about positional play, identity, and how to develop players for the realities of modern football, this is one you won’t want to miss. If you enjoy the episode, please like, subscribe, and leave a comment with your biggest takeaway. It helps us reach more coaches around the world. This episode is brought to you by Zone 14 Coaching — a company built by coaches, for coaches. Their Next Gen Journals for coaches and players help you plan with intention, reflect with clarity, and track development across the entire season. Grounded in neuroscience and designed for real coaching life, they’re a powerful tool for building accountability and learning habits in your environment. You can get $5 off your order at Zone14Coaching.com using the code ModernSoccer5. If you’re outfitting an entire team or club, check the contact details below and connect directly with them. Thanks for your continued support of the Modern Soccer Coach Podcast. #ModernSoccerCoach #PositionalPlay #FootballTactics #SoccerCoaching #garycurneen #bernatmosquera #youtubepodcast #soccerpodcast #coachpodcast #tacticspodcast #youtube #GameModel #TacticalAnalysis #EliteCoaching #SoccerDevelopment #FootballCoaches #CoachingEducation #TacticalThinking #SoccerPodcast #FootballPodcast #YouthDevelopment #HighPerformance #CoachingPhilosophy #PlayerDevelopment #FootballTraining #SoccerTactics #Pressing #BuildUpPlay #TempoInFootball #FootballIdentity #GamePrinciples #CoachLife #SoccerAnalysis #FootballEducation #CoachingCommunity #ModernGame #FootballCulture

After a jam-packed weekend in the WSL, Lianne reacts to the departure of Chelsea's head of women's football Paul Green and what it means for the club. She also reflects on the Champions League playoff first legs and the prospect of an Arsenal vs Chelsea semi-final! Plus, Brentford Women's manager Carly Williams opens up on how her side are going for back-to-back promotions this season, with a huge fixture coming up at the Gtech stadium this weekend. Charlton fan and matchday presenter for London City Lionesses Charlotte Richardson speaks about her incredible career to-date. And Carla Thompson, director of player development at the NWSL, and coach and logistics coordinator Katie Richie joined me to chat all about the NWSL combine! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Cork City striker Seani Maguire sat down with Red FM's Ruairi O'Hagan ahead of the dawn of the new First Division, where he spoke about bringing Cork City back to the promised land, turning down Shamrock Rovers and the new manager Barry Robson. Become a member and sign up at offtheball.com/join

On this exclusive episode of The Overlap, brought to you by Sky Bet, Ian Wright sits down with his former Arsenal teammate Dennis Bergkamp for a special catch up and proper football chat. The two look back on their time at Arsenal, sharing memories from one of the club’s greatest eras and what life was really like in that dressing room. Dennis also gives his thoughts on the current Arsenal side, the pressure that comes with a title challenge, and how today’s game compares to when he was playing. They talk through Dennis’ career, from moving to England and working under Arsène Wenger, to the art of finishing, the strikers he admired, and whether he thinks his game would suit modern football. There’s also a look at international football, the Netherlands team, and the managers who had the biggest impact on his career. Let us know your favourite Bergkamp moment in the comments and don’t forget to like and subscribe so you never miss an episode of The Overlap. 00:00 - Intro 09:48 - Goalscoring 28:38 - Teammates 46:09 - Managers Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we take a not so deep dive into the Minnesota United's 2026 season with Pod On You Loons! Recorded on: 1/30/26 #MLS #MLSCup #mlscupplayoffs #ATLUTD #atlantaunited #austinfc #charlottefc #forthecrown #cf97 #chicagofire #fccincinnati #fcc #allforcincy #coloradorapids #rapids96 #columbuscrew #crew96 #dcu #dcunited #fcdallas #dtid #houstondynamo #holditdown #sportingkc #skc #lagalaxy #losangeles #lafc #intermiami #intermiamicf #messi #lionelmessi #minnesotaunited #mnufc #legion...

James Rodríguez to Minnesota United sounds like a FIFA career mode glitch, but it might actually be happening — and we break down whether the most random transfer imaginable could work for both MLS and James himself. Plus, we take a hard look at once-bright USMNT stars whose momentum has stalled, before diving into the latest chaos from around the soccer world, including Real Madrid controversy, awkward press conferences, and some truly bizarre Cristiano Ronaldo headlines.

Join Matthew Brennan, Ben Symes and David Wilson as they delve into the biggest stories this week in the world of Irish football. A full Irish EFL-focused transfer roundup, including moves for Johnny Kenny, Andrew Moran, Sammie Szmodics, Aidomo Emakhu, and Jacob Devaney Should Kenny have chosen Germany, or is League One his best bet of making March's squad? What these transfers say about the current market — and why so many Irish-linked players are heading to England and Scotland A quick “Green Scene” run-through, tying the transfer chatter into the wider Ireland picture A deep dive on James McClean after alleged abuse from Rovers fans — is this becoming a recurring issue? Ireland midfield check-in: Browne flying, Knight struggling, Molumby off the pace, Taylor steady What Moran’s move means, Cullen’s absence, Lawal’s role, and whether Azaz is heading deeper And as ever, we are looking for your inspiration to help us, fancy getting in touch? You can do so by emailing [email protected] Contact us on socials @offtheball across all our platforms. Or if you want to contact us directly message the @offtheball.football account on Instagram. And as ever, we are on WhatsApp on 087 9 180 180. Become a member and sign up at offtheball.com/join

Stu Holden and David Mosse are here with a new episode of State of the Union! Stu and Mosse start the show by breaking down the end of the European transfer window and Ricardo Pepi’s transfer to Fulham falling through. Stu and Mosse then move through the Bundesliga and Serie A where both Malik Tillman and Weston McKennie scored to continue their strong form. Stu and Mosse then provide a preview for the upcoming Champions League playoff matches including the huge rematch between Real Madrid and Benfica. In #AskAlexi, the pair break down some major moves in MLS including Inter Miami’s latest signing and discuss what’s next for Gio Reyna. Finally, in One for the Road, Stu gives his latest prediction for the USA’s starting lineup in the coming World Cup. Use our code for $30 off your next order of World Cup Tickets on SeatGeek*:https://seatgeek.onelink.me/RrnK/SOTU Sponsored by SeatGeek. *Restrictions apply. Max $30discount, Min. $200 Purchase Intro: (0:00)Inside the transfer window (2:46)Pepi’s deal to Fulham falls through (6:33)US Abroad: McKennie, Tillman stay hot (19:26)#AskAlexi: No Gio, no cry? (46:11)One For The Road: Stu’s US Starting XI (54:50) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Don Williams sat down with Jamie Clark, Head Coach of the University of Washington men’s soccer program and reigning NCAA National Champion, for a wide-ranging conversation on leadership, recruiting, and the evolving future of college soccer. Coach Clark shared his unique journey through the game, from his playing career at Stanford and in the professional ranks to his steady rise through the college coaching landscape. He also reflected on his rare place in NCAA history - one of only two father-son duos to coach Division I men’s soccer. His father, Bobby Clark, is a legendary figure in the sport and a national champion at Notre Dame, making coaching excellence a true family legacy. The conversation explored major shifts facing the college game, including the proposed 21st-century model for a year-round college soccer calendar. Coach Clark offered insight into discussions among elite Division I programs about competing at a higher, more professionalized level and what that could mean for player development, recruiting, and the future pipeline to the pro game. On recruiting, Clark emphasized his strong belief in local and domestic talent, outlining how Washington prioritizes identifying players who fit the program culturally and developmentally - not just physically. He broke down his recruiting philosophy, stressing patience, long-term growth, and trust in the development process. A standout example was the story of former Husky Ryan Sailor, who had logged just 30 minutes of playing time heading into his senior year before earning significant opportunities, getting drafted into MLS, and launching a professional career. The story underscored Clark’s core message: development is rarely linear, and persistence, patience, and belief can change everything. This episode offers valuable insight for recruits, parents, coaches, and anyone interested in where college soccer is headed - straight from one of the most respected voices in the game.

A new “perfect" striker emerges for the USMNT, and top European clubs are taking notice of our boys! Jimmy Conrad, Charlie Davies, and Tony Meola kick things off by breaking down Pellegrino Matarazzo’s unbeaten start at Real Sociedad (7:28), before Luciano Spalletti’s praise of Weston McKennie (11:28) sparks a wider debate: who is Concacaf's best striker right now (16:18)? Plus, the January transfer window just got interesting... Villarreal are reportedly closing in on Alex Freeman (25:56), Fulham are in talks for Ricardo Pepi (32:26), and Diego Luna is drawing interest from multiple LaLiga sides (43:32). The guys weigh the risks and rewards of making a move with the World Cup looming. Finally, it’s Champions League crunch time, with several Americans fighting for a Top 24 spot on matchday 8 (52:28), and the U.S. Open Cup returns with some mouth-watering Pro vs. Amateur first-round matchups (59:49). Call It What You Want is available for free on the Audacy app as well as Apple Podcasts, Spotify and wherever else you listen to podcasts. Follow the Call It What You Want team on X:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@JimmyConrad⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ @CharlieDavies9⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@TMeola1⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Visit the ⁠betting arena on CBSSports.com⁠ for all the latest in ⁠sportsbook reviews⁠ and ⁠sportsbook promos⁠ for ⁠betting on soccer⁠ For more soccer coverage from CBS Sports, visit ⁠https://www.cbssports.com/soccer/⁠ To hear more from the CBS Sports Podcast Network, visit ⁠https://www.cbssports.com/podcasts/⁠ Watch UEFA Champions League, UEFA Europa League, UEFA Europa Conference League, UEFA Women’s Champions League, EFL Championship, EFL League Cup, Carabao Cup, Serie A, Coppa Italia, CONCACAF Nations League, CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers, Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup, NWSL, Scottish Premiership, AFC Champion League by subscribing to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Paramount+⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Visit the betting arena on CBS Sports.com: ⁠https://www.cbssports.com/betting/⁠ For all the latest in sportsbook reviews: ⁠https://www.cbssports.com/betting/news/sportsbook-promos/⁠ And sportsbook promos: ⁠https://www.cbssports.com/betting/news/sportsbook-promos/ To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Weston McKennie's coach says he'd be a great central striker, Reyna out with a muscle strain, Tillman on the bench for a spell here, Weah assist, Big Pat scores but Vince is unpersuaded, Tanner and Johnny getting starts in the midfield, and the St. Pauli president floats boycotting the World Cup, which brings to mind Trump, which brings to mind the senseless bloodshed in Minneapolis.

This week on The Cooligans, Christian Polanco and Alexis Guerreros dive into Ricardo Pepi’s rumored move to Fulham, Pellegrino Matarazzo’s standout success in La Liga, Michael Carrick’s readiness to take over Manchester United full-time, and what Trinity Rodman’s commitment to the NWSL signals about the league’s future and global ambitions.

Weston McKennie is bossing the Champions League, and we’re here for it! Jimmy Conrad, Charlie Davies, and Tony Meola discuss the Juventus midfielder’s UCL goal streak as well as his comments about being willing to run through a wall for Luciano Spalletti (06:43). But with his contract running down, what does the future hold for the in-form USMNT star (11:59)? Eric Ramsay’s rough start at West Brom adds to the negative perception of MLS coaches (24:26). The plot thickens at Norwich amid reports that Josh Sargent may have played his last game for the Canaries (32:46). And the crew reacts to Brian Gutierrez and Richy Ledezma choosing to represent Mexico (42:42). Then it’s Mailbag time, as the guys discuss the challenges facing small-market MLS teams (46:19), the Sergiño Dest vs. Tim Weah debate (56:58), the best World Cup group-stage matchups (1:01:42), and which MLS clubs could emerge as dark horses this season (1:02:54). Call It What You Want is available for free on the Audacy app as well as Apple Podcasts, Spotify and wherever else you listen to podcasts. Follow the Call It What You Want team on X:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@JimmyConrad⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ @CharlieDavies9⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@TMeola1⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Visit the ⁠betting arena on CBSSports.com⁠ for all the latest in ⁠sportsbook reviews⁠ and ⁠sportsbook promos⁠ for ⁠betting on soccer⁠ For more soccer coverage from CBS Sports, visit ⁠https://www.cbssports.com/soccer/⁠ To hear more from the CBS Sports Podcast Network, visit ⁠https://www.cbssports.com/podcasts/⁠ Watch UEFA Champions League, UEFA Europa League, UEFA Europa Conference League, UEFA Women’s Champions League, EFL Championship, EFL League Cup, Carabao Cup, Serie A, Coppa Italia, CONCACAF Nations League, CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers, Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup, NWSL, Scottish Premiership, AFC Champion League by subscribing to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Paramount+⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Visit the betting arena on CBS Sports.com: ⁠https://www.cbssports.com/betting/⁠ For all the latest in sportsbook reviews: ⁠https://www.cbssports.com/betting/news/sportsbook-promos/⁠ And sportsbook promos: ⁠https://www.cbssports.com/betting/news/sportsbook-promos/ To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Charlie Boehm joins Belz to talk about Richards and the mess at Palace, Brenden Aaronson up from the ashes, Big Pat's distinct skill-set, E.B. White on Gio Reyna, Paredes returns brightly, Cardoso unconvincing to Belz, Pellegrino Matarazzo beats Barca, and Charlie was moved by the African Cup of Nations final.

Tom and Tab are joined by Paul Tenorio of The Athletic to discuss the latest news on Josh Sargent's struggle to get to MLS, Weston McKennie's leverage over Juventus and Paul's Top 5 USMNT Things to Watch before the World Cup. Tab is honest about Gio Reyna and where he can be useful for the US Team, and Tab also tells an incredible story about the 1990 World Cup and how the US was unprepared for what was coming. Plus, we dive into the bizarre stealing of towels situation at the AFCON Final and talk about Paul's new book, The Messi Effect. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We’re back with another AFTN Soccer Show packed full of Vancouver Whitecaps, Vancouver FC, and Canadian men's national team chat.The preseason is underway for the Whitecaps. They've headed off to Marbella after another week of Tristan Blackmon brouhaha, with the addition of a new player and murmurs of another Peruvian starlet on the way. We delve into all the main talking points of the week in Whitecapsland, hear some thoughts from CEO Axel Schuster, and look at the 2026 Canadian Championship draw and the path ahead for an unprecedented Whitecaps fivepeat.On the international stage, Whitecap Ralph Priso shone at Camp Poutine for Canada against Guatemala. What does this mean for his World Cup chances and who else put themselves in the mix? We hear some thoughts from Jesse Marsch on Priso and also chat about the AFCON final shenanigans and the insane demand for World Cup tickets.All of this plus we talk Vancouver FC coaching appointments, SixFive's response and counterclaim to former coach Afshin Ghotbi's court proceedings, move onto the letter C in our Canadian Soccer A to Z series, and music-wise, Television Personalities continue their residency as our Artists of the Month, The Soup Dragons are the latest band to feature in our 40th anniversary tribute year to the C86 movement, and we have another World Cup themed song in Wavelength.Here’s the rundown for the main segments from the episode:01.27: Intro - AFCON drama, Copa Del Rey shock, World Cup ticket requests24.45: Hot Chocolate Boy - Kafkas29.25: Tristan Blackmon remains a Whitecap despite US media reports56.15: Whitecaps News of the Week - Larraz arrives, another Peruvian incoming?, WFC2 coach search68.25: Whitecaps' Canadian Championship fivepeat path revealed88.05: Nash and Daso confirmed as Vancouver FC management team96.05: SixFive file Ghotbi court response and counterclaim118.00: Canadian Soccer A to Z - C126.05: Priso impresses at Camp Poutine151.30: Wavelength - Neil Brophy - Football Rock and Roll

Alexi Lalas headed to St. Louis for the annual Mac Hermann Awards, college soccer's highest honor, to sit down with the finalist to pick their brains on the evolution of the game in the U.S. He was also joined by two USMNT legends, Brad Friedel and John Harkes, to preview the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, look back at how far the men's game has come since 1994, & a peak ahead to where the college game is headed. Use our code for $30 off your next order of World Cup Tickets on SeatGeek*:https://seatgeek.onelink.me/RrnK/SOTU Sponsored by SeatGeek. *Restrictions apply. Max $30discount, Min. $200 Purchase Intro (0:00)Brad Friedel - U.S Soccer Legend (2:12)John Harkes - U.S Soccer Legend (18:41)Donavan Phillip - 2025 Hermann Award Winner - NC State (36:46)Izzy Engle - Notre Dame MF/FW (41:10)Jordynn Dudley - FSU Forward (43:45)Jasmine Aikey - 2025 Hermann Award Winner - Stanford (45:58)Richie Aman - Washington Midfielder (48:45) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This episode is proudly supported by Zone14 Zone14 helps coaches turn ideas into clarity — with session design tools, game models, and shared language that support real development on the grass. https://zone14coaching.com/ Use code:ModernSoccer5 for $5 OFF In this episode, Gary is joined by Patrice Gheisar for a deep, practical conversation on one of the most misunderstood debates in modern coaching: positionalism vs relationism. Rather than choosing sides, Patrice shares how the two can work together inside a clear game model — using real match examples, training principles, and lessons learned from building a sustained attacking identity over multiple seasons. We explore how positional structure provides reference points, while relational freedom allows players to solve problems in real time. Patrice breaks down wide overloads, central breaks, counter-pressing, rest defence, and attacking with numbers — all through the lens of what actually works on the grass. This conversation goes beyond theory and into coaching reality, touching on player trust, decision-making, patience vs verticality, and why supporting good ideas matters more than chasing short-term results. If you’re a coach, director, or educator trying to balance structure with freedom — this episode will challenge how you think about attacking football.

Join Matthew Brennan, Ben Symes and David Wilson as they debate which Irish players should move where during the January transfer window? Off The Ball and the League of Ireland announce 3 more years. Gavin Bazunu gets his move to Stoke City, but is that a good move for his career? Where will Andrew Moran end up, and was his spell in the MLS good for his development? What Irish players desperately need moves to have a chance of getting into the March squad? Celtic might have steadied the ship once more with Martin O'Neill but is that where Johnny Kenny should stay? And is Scottish football a good place for Irish players to develop their careers? Heated discussion ensues. And as ever, we are looking for your inspiration to help us, fancy getting in touch? You can do so my emailing [email protected] Contact us on socials @offtheball across all our platforms. Or if you want to contact us directly message the @offtheball.football account on Instagram. And as ever, we are on WhatsApp on 087 9 180 180. Become a member and sign up at offtheball.com/join

Sounders FC Pod-Cast returns with a must-listen episode as hosts Steve Zakuani and Brad Evans sit down with Seattle Sounders Head Coach Brian Schmetzer for a wide-ranging, candid conversation. Schmetzer takes listeners behind the scenes of last season’s Club World Cup and Leagues Cup, sharing stories and insights you won’t hear anywhere else. He opens up about his coaching journey — from his early days as an assistant to leading the Sounders from the top — and dives into the intense competiti...

Tom and Tab get into the Pepi injury fallout, Josh Sargent's potential move to Toronto FC, what to make of Weston McKennie's goal scoring surge and when Christian Pulisic will come home to MLS. They answer your mailbag questions about the World Cup roster, players that didn't develop they way they thought and why Gio Reyna's run at Azteca sums up the current generation of USMNT players. Plus Tab goes back to Trinidad in 1989 for stories from the game that changed everything for U.S. Soccer with the "Shot Heard Round the World," and why Tab's pass may have been the key to Paul Caligiuri's legendary goal. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jimmy Conrad, Charlie Davies, and Tony Meola break down the highs and lows from the weekend. Ricardo Pepi finds the net but suffers a broken forearm, Weston McKennie continues to look like Juventus’ MVP, Joe Scally’s roster chances, and Josh Sargent pushing for a move to Toronto FC. Then, USMNT legend and PSV Director of Football Earnie Stewart joins the show to discuss Pepi’s injury, Americans thriving in the Eredivisie, Malik Tillman’s rise, and his perspective on Mauricio Pochettino’s tenure so far. Plus, a jersey swap story to end all jersey swap stories! The guys revisit Charlie’s trip to MLS Media Day, including conversations with Matt Turner about competition for the No. 1 goalkeeper spot and Jack McGlynn on perceptions surrounding his speed. Call It What You Want is available for free on the Audacy app as well as Apple Podcasts, Spotify and wherever else you listen to podcasts. Follow the Call It What You Want team on X:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@JimmyConrad⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ @CharlieDavies9⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@TMeola1⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Visit the ⁠betting arena on CBSSports.com⁠ for all the latest in ⁠sportsbook reviews⁠ and ⁠sportsbook promos⁠ for ⁠betting on soccer⁠ For more soccer coverage from CBS Sports, visit ⁠https://www.cbssports.com/soccer/⁠ To hear more from the CBS Sports Podcast Network, visit ⁠https://www.cbssports.com/podcasts/⁠ Watch UEFA Champions League, UEFA Europa League, UEFA Europa Conference League, UEFA Women’s Champions League, EFL Championship, EFL League Cup, Carabao Cup, Serie A, Coppa Italia, CONCACAF Nations League, CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers, Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup, NWSL, Scottish Premiership, AFC Champion League by subscribing to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Paramount+⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Visit the betting arena on CBS Sports.com: ⁠https://www.cbssports.com/betting/⁠ For all the latest in sportsbook reviews: ⁠https://www.cbssports.com/betting/news/sportsbook-promos/⁠ And sportsbook promos: ⁠https://www.cbssports.com/betting/news/sportsbook-promos/ To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Joining us this week is Frank Sinclair coming through at Chelsea in a defining era Frank quickly asserted himself as a regular in the team following an 8 game ban after ‘head butting’ a ref. With footballing legends walking through the door left right and centre Sinclair got to play with the likes of Gullit, Vialli, Zola & Mark Hughes. With plenty of own goals, brutal initiations & cup finals along the way. After leaving Chelsea he heads to Leicester to be managed by Martin O’Neill/given many days off by Martin O’Neill. During this time Leicester managed to reach the league cup final but Frank was left out after a controversial shopping trip. After a very enjoyable spell at the club Franks time there came to a sour end with a relegation spell and being falsely imprisoned while on a team trip away. This show is sponsored by Talksport Bet Get £40 in FREE BETS at http://talksportbet.com/utc when you bet £10 18+ gambleaware.org T&Cs apply 🌏Get an exclusive NordVPN deal here → https://nordvpn.com/cosh This is risk-free with Nord’s 30-day money-back guarantee! Bespoke kits for your club with O'Neills Sportswear UK👇 👕Your custom design 🚚Delivered in 4-6 weeks ✅Low minimum order quantity 🤝Kit out your team now, from this link: https://bit.ly/3z46QiI Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Strap in for an action-packed show! Jimmy Conrad and Marcelo Balboa break down Brenden Aaronson’s Premier League resurgence (3:55), Antonee Robinson’s seamless return from injury (07:03), and Yunus Musah earning more minutes (14:41). The guys weigh in on the purported leaked USMNT World Cup kits doing the rounds, and how they stack up against the iconic 1994 jerseys (19:19). Charlie Davies joins live from MLS Media Day with Sebastian Berhalter to discuss Vancouver’s preseason, lessons learned from Thomas Müller, and seizing his USMNT opportunities (30:55). Is Berhalter a lock for June (49:53)? Plus, Tim Ream makes his CIWYW debut, reflecting on life as the USMNT’s grizzled vet, Mauricio Pochettino’s “stroke of genius,” and plenty more (1:06:40). Call It What You Want is available for free on the Audacy app as well as Apple Podcasts, Spotify and wherever else you listen to podcasts. Follow the Call It What You Want team on X:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@JimmyConrad⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ @CharlieDavies9⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@TMeola1⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Visit the ⁠betting arena on CBSSports.com⁠ for all the latest in ⁠sportsbook reviews⁠ and ⁠sportsbook promos⁠ for ⁠betting on soccer⁠ For more soccer coverage from CBS Sports, visit ⁠https://www.cbssports.com/soccer/⁠ To hear more from the CBS Sports Podcast Network, visit ⁠https://www.cbssports.com/podcasts/⁠ Watch UEFA Champions League, UEFA Europa League, UEFA Europa Conference League, UEFA Women’s Champions League, EFL Championship, EFL League Cup, Carabao Cup, Serie A, Coppa Italia, CONCACAF Nations League, CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers, Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup, NWSL, Scottish Premiership, AFC Champion League by subscribing to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Paramount+⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Visit the betting arena on CBS Sports.com: ⁠https://www.cbssports.com/betting/⁠ For all the latest in sportsbook reviews: ⁠https://www.cbssports.com/betting/news/sportsbook-promos/⁠ And sportsbook promos: ⁠https://www.cbssports.com/betting/news/sportsbook-promos/ To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Alexi Lalas and David Mosse are back with a new episode of State of the Union! The duo is joined by FOX Soccer insider, Doug McIntyre, to discuss Doug’s take of Weston McKennie being the greatest American midfielder of all-time, whether or not Brenden Aaronson has turned himself into a lock for the World Cup roster, and what US players should be seeking a transfer during this window. After Doug says goodbye, Alexi and Mosse preview Tim Weah battling PSG for some silverware and Johnny Cardoso and Atlético Madrid meeting rivals Real Madrid in the Spanish Supercopa semifinals. In @AskAlexi, Christian Pulisic’s corner taking skills are debated, and Inter Miami’s roster building is interrogated. We finish with One for the Road taking a look at the rumored USA jerseys for the 2026 FIFA World Cup™ that were potentially leaked. Use my code for $30 off your next order of World Cup Tickets on SeatGeek*:https://seatgeek.onelink.me/RrnK/SOTU Sponsored by SeatGeek. *Restrictions apply. Max $30discount, Min. $200 Purchase Intro (0:00)Doug defends the 'McKennie is the GOAT' take, MLS next? (6:00)US Abroad: Aaronson on FIRE, Weah goes for hardware (25:00)#AskAlexi: MLS transfer rules, Pulisic's corners & More (35:31)One for the Road: USMNT World Cup Kit leaks... (45:03) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

New year, same old podcast. Jimmy Conrad, Charlie Davies, and Tony Meola ring in 2026 by digging into Brenden Aaronson’s impressive run of form at Leeds and where the 25-year-old fits into Mauricio Pochettino’s World Cup plans (07:34). Weston McKennie remains clutch for Juventus, but can he really be considered the USMNT’s greatest midfielder of all time (25:45)? Damion Downs and Cole Campbell secure loan moves (49:44), Pellegrino Matarazzo gets off to a positive start in LaLiga (55:19), and Wilfried Nancy’s nightmare spell at Celtic comes to an end (58:33). Call It What You Want is available for free on the Audacy app as well as Apple Podcasts, Spotify and wherever else you listen to podcasts. Follow the Call It What You Want team on X:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@JimmyConrad⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ @CharlieDavies9⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@TMeola1⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Visit the ⁠betting arena on CBSSports.com⁠ for all the latest in ⁠sportsbook reviews⁠ and ⁠sportsbook promos⁠ for ⁠betting on soccer⁠ For more soccer coverage from CBS Sports, visit ⁠https://www.cbssports.com/soccer/⁠ To hear more from the CBS Sports Podcast Network, visit ⁠https://www.cbssports.com/podcasts/⁠ Watch UEFA Champions League, UEFA Europa League, UEFA Europa Conference League, UEFA Women’s Champions League, EFL Championship, EFL League Cup, Carabao Cup, Serie A, Coppa Italia, CONCACAF Nations League, CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers, Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup, NWSL, Scottish Premiership, AFC Champion League by subscribing to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Paramount+⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Visit the betting arena on CBS Sports.com: ⁠https://www.cbssports.com/betting/⁠ For all the latest in sportsbook reviews: ⁠https://www.cbssports.com/betting/news/sportsbook-promos/⁠ And sportsbook promos: ⁠https://www.cbssports.com/betting/news/sportsbook-promos/ To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Register for MSC Tactical Flexibility webinar: https://www.modernsoccercoach.com/product-page/upcoming-webinar-how-to-coach-tactical-flexibility-in-an-attacking-manner Sign-Up for MSC Insider: https://modernsoccercoach.mimentorportal.com/subscriptions In the final Modern Soccer Coach podcast of 2025, we step back from tactics and trends and ask a bigger question: What will the game look like in 2026 and beyond? Rather than reviewing downloads or highlights, this episode focuses on three ideas from 2025 that point directly toward the future of soccer coaching and player development. Across the year on Modern Soccer Coach, conversations consistently returned to the same themes: clarity over complexity, individuality over rigid structure, and environments over outcomes. In this episode, we explore: • How modern game models may be limiting individual development • Why more content does not always create better coaches • The growing importance of methodology and clarity • How youth environments shape the future of the professional game This episode is for coaches who want to think beyond the next session and reflect on where the game is actually heading. Thank you for listening throughout 2025. We hope you stay with us in 2026. - Gary Curneen

Support the pod and join our beautiful soccer community: https://www.patreon.com/samsarmy PREMIER LEAGUE: Aston Villa keeps playing possum and Unai Emery keeps pulling all the right levers. City's Rayan Cherki making a strong push to be signing of the summer. Ruben Amorim successfully capitulates on tactics. Preview of this week's massive Arsenal vs Villa match. HALFTIME: Pop Quiz on USMNT goalscorers at World Cup 2026 ROUND THE WORLD: AFCON news and notes STOPPAGE TIME: Ivan Toney's Best Bets and GOAWs

We’re back with another AFTN Soccer Show packed full of Vancouver Whitecaps, Vancouver Rise, Major League Soccer, Canadian Premier League, and general football chat and interviews in our last podcast of 2025.A momentous and unforgettable year of Vancouver football is coming to an end. What a year it was and we look back on a lot of it in our last show of 2025 with the help of Global TV's Asa Rehman, who joins us to talk Vancouver Rise's success in the inaugural Northern Super League season, and Kian Gadsby, who joins us to talk Whitecaps and more.We also catch up with former Whitecaps coach Vanni Sartini in our in-depth feature interview this episode to look back at his time at the helm of the 'Caps and the new adventure that awaits him in the CPL with Halifax Wanderers.Plus we hand out our final fun AFTN awards of the year, talk Christmas football presents, and music-wise, our countdown of our favourite tracks of the year wraps up with the songs at the top three positions, plus we have a retro Christmas gift themed football song in Wavelength.Here’s the rundown for the main segments from the episode:01.26: Intro - Christmas football gifts and reflections on the year that's been23.16: 2025 Football In Memoriam26.22: AFTN Awards - Hero, Villain, Disgrace, Embarrassing moment, rule changes we want to see45.37: 2025 Festive Fifteen - #3 Sleaford Mods - The Good Life50.15: Asa Rehman on Vancouver Rise's wonderful NSL winning first season69.00: 2025 Festive Fifteen - #2 Crazy and the Brains - Catatonic Youth73.50: Vanni Sartini interview and discussion126.08: 2025 Festive Fifteen - #1 Kneecap - The Recap130.25: Kian Gadsby reflects on experiencing Vancouver's exciting footballing year169.10: Wavelength - The Everly Pregnant Brothers - Scalextric

Check out Zone 14 Coaching below: https://zone14coaching.com/ Use code:ModernSoccer5 for $5 OFF Is the art of defending dead? In this episode of the Modern Soccer Coach podcast, Gary Curneen sits down with former Premier League and MLS center backs Danny Collins and Ike Opara to break down how the center back position has changed — and what might be getting lost along the way. The conversation explores the evolution from defender-first to build-up quarterback, the influence of possession-based football, and the tension between philosophy and making the best decision in the moment. Danny and Ike share firsthand experiences from elite environments, discussing duels, mentality, physicality, decision-making under pressure, and why clean sheets still matter. This episode dives into: • How the role of the center back has evolved over the last 10–15 years • The impact of building out from the back at youth and professional levels • Whether defensive craft and mentality are being deprioritized • Philosophy vs results in modern coaching • What still defines an elite defender today • Where defending might be heading next If you coach defenders, work in player development, or want a deeper understanding of how modern football is reshaping defensive roles, this is a must-listen conversation. Subscribe to Modern Soccer Coach for more long-form conversations, breakdowns, and insights from the game’s leading coaches and players. #soccer #football #soccertraining #soccercoaching #soccerdrills #defending #podcast #coaching #footy #garycurneen #dannycollins #ikeopara #podcastshow #soccerpodcast #youtubepodcast #youthsoccer #modernsoccercoach

Dharmesh Sheth is joined by Mark Ogden, John Cross and Jason Burt to reflect on the weekend’s sporting action. We start with Arsenal’s hard-fought 2-1 victory over Brighton, sealed by a stunning David Raya save, that kept them top of the league. But are Arsenal beginning to feel the pressure? The focus then shifts to The Ashes, where England finally claimed a Test win in Australia—but John believes it was a hollow victory played out on a dreadful pitch. Next up is Aston Villa’s superb run of eleven consecutive wins. A 2–1 victory at Stamford Bridge has moved them to within three points of league leaders Arsenal—but with Unai Emery’s side consistently outperforming their xG, can they keep this run going? Finally, we turn to Liverpool’s 2–1 victory over bottom-of-the-table Wolves. With his first league goal of the season, we ask: has the real Florian Wirtz arrived in the Premier League? Sunday Supplement is a Sky Sports podcast. Listen to every episode here: skysports.com/sunday-supplement You can listen to Sunday Supplement on your smart speaker by saying "ask Global Player to play Sunday Supplement". For all the latest football news, head to skysports.com/football For advertising opportunities or to get in touch email: [email protected]

Send us Fan Mail This episode is the "Best of Season 13 of the GP Soccer Podcast! Host Giovanni Pacini welcomes his worldwide audience to the Season 13 finale of the GP Soccer Podcast! Many thanks go out to all the guests, sponsors, supporters, and most importantly, the audience. This week's "Best of Season 13 "Conversation with the Coach" will feature two interviews. First, Michael Milazzo, Asst. Coach with the New England Revolution II team and then...

Access full webinar here: https://www.modernsoccercoach.com/pro... Check out Duktig Brand here: https://www.duktigbrand.com/ In this episode, Gary Curneen is joined by Luis Swisher, U18/U19 coach at St. Louis City SC (MLS), to break down one of the most undervalued attacking moments in soccer: throw-ins. Most teams get 25–45 throw-ins per match, yet very few coach them with the same detail as build-up play, goal kicks, or corners. Luis explains why throw-ins should be treated as controlled attacking restarts, not throwaways — and how teaching intentions, space, and decision-making can lead to more possession, progression, and goal-scoring opportunities. We discuss: Why there are more throw-ins than corners — and why that matters Coaching the thrower as the “quarterback” Intentions vs predictable set routines How to train attacking throw-ins without killing session flow Scaling throw-in detail from youth to professional level Access full webinar here: https://www.modernsoccercoach.com/post/how-throw-ins-can-create-goals-free-webinar Check out Duktig Brand here: https://www.duktigbrand.com/ In this episode, Gary Curneen is joined by Luis Swisher, U18/U19 coach at St. Louis City SC (MLS), to break down one of the most undervalued attacking moments in soccer: throw-ins. Most teams get 25–45 throw-ins per match, yet very few coach them with the same detail as build-up play, goal kicks, or corners. Luis explains why throw-ins should be treated as controlled attacking restarts, not throwaways — and how teaching intentions, space, and decision-making can lead to more possession, progression, and goal-scoring opportunities. We discuss: Why there are more throw-ins than corners — and why that matters Coaching the thrower as the “quarterback” Intentions vs predictable set routines How to train attacking throw-ins without killing session flow Scaling throw-in detail from youth to professional level Why risk, bravery, and learning matter in player development 🎥 Free attacking throw-ins presentation (no login required): https://www.modernsoccercoach.com/post/how-throw-ins-can-create-goals-free-webinar ⚽ Modern Soccer Coach Insider — full webinar library, sessions & weekly bonus content: https://modernsoccercoach.mimentorportal.com/subscriptions 🤝 Podcast sponsor: Duktig Brand Duktig produces premium notebooks and accessories for soccer coaches and players, featuring waterproof stone paper and professional designs. https://www.duktigbrand.com/ If you enjoyed the episode, please subscribe, and if you’re listening on audio, a quick rating on Apple Podcasts or Spotify really helps support the show.

Welcome back to Stick to Football, brought to you by ARNE. With Christmas just around the corner, the studio has a festive feel as Gary Neville, Jamie Carragher, Roy Keane, Jill Scott and Ian Wright look back on a big week of football. We start with the Sunderland vs Newcastle derby and the team share memories from some of the biggest rivalries they played in. The focus then turns to Manchester United after a dramatic 4-4 draw with Bournemouth. We break down Ruben Amorim’s tactical changes, how they’ve improved United going forward and whether they’ve left the side too open at the back. We also debate Kobbie Mainoo’s future, with questions over his game time and whether he feels stuck at United, while the team are split on what comes next for the young midfielder. There’s also discussion around the Mo Salah situation as Jamie reflects on his comments and what the future may hold for the Egyptian forward. Super 6 returns with predictions ahead of another Premier League weekend before we finish with your community questions. What do you think is the biggest derby in English football? Let us know in the comments and don’t forget to like and subscribe so you never miss an episode of The Overlap. 00:00 Intro 06:22 Newcastle vs. Sunderland 14:09 Meeting Prince William 30:54 Kobbie Mainoo 45:19 Jill Scott's EA Sports FC 26 Hero Item 49:27 Carra vs Salah 01:16:36 World Cup ticket Prices 01:21:21 Super 6 01:32:04 The Toughest Position in Football 01:38:57 Darts Nicknames 01:40:58 Best Derby in the Premier League This episode is sponsored by Huel. Gary Neville and the Stick to Football team know - when your day’s full-on, you need fuel that’s fast and actually good for you. Huel is the ultimate meal on the go - high protein, packed with 26 essential vitamins & minerals, and ready in seconds. 🏆 Exclusive for The Overlap listeners: Get your first Huel with a special discount AND a free gift. That goes for all of their range, including the brand new Huel Lite! 👉 Claim Your Offer Now – and see why millions have made the switch. Go to https://huel.com/theoverlap This episode is sponsored by EA Sports FC 26. Jill Scott’s Hero Item will be live in-game on EA Sports FC 26 at 6pm on 19 December. This episode is sponsored by Sky Bet’s Super 6. Visit super6.skysports.com for your chance to win £250k. Terms and conditions apply: https://super6.skysports.com/terms Stick to Football is brought to you by our partners ARNE clothing https://arneclo.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The signs are good for Portugal as the 2026 FIFA World Cup edges closer and they aim to become champions for the first time. Stephen...

On this Overlap Exclusive, brought to you by Sky Bet, we sit down with Micky van de Ven for an open conversation about his journey in football and life at Tottenham Hotspur. Van de Ven looks back at where it all began, breaking into the game before earning a move to Wolfsburg, where his performances in the Bundesliga put him on the radar of Europe’s biggest clubs. He then reflects on his move to Tottenham, joining under Ange Postecoglou and being part of a side that went on to lift the Europa League. Micky opens up on what that period meant to him, how he felt when Ange was dismissed, and how the squad responded to change. The conversation turns to the present day, as he discusses life under Thomas Frank, the challenges of the current season and what the manager has brought to the group. Finally, Micky looks ahead to the future, sharing his ambitions with the Netherlands as the countdown begins towards the World Cup next year. This episode is sponsored by Huel. Start the new year off on the right foot + get a protein boost with Huel. Get our special offer using code EXCLUSIVE at https://www.huel.com/EXCLUSIVE today. 00:00 Intro 06:00 Early Football Memories 11:40 Playing Under Ange Postecoglou and Thomas Frank 21:19 Ange Postecoglou Sacking 22:35 Wolfsburg Career 30:00 Struggles and Growth at Wolfsburg 36:20 Joining Tottenham and Ambitions 41:20 Premier League Challenges and Future Goals 48:47 World Cup Hopes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On Friday's Football Daily, Phil Egan has the latest after both Irish sides get knocked out of Europe, but Evan Ferguson nets a double in Glasgow. Joey O'Brien on the differences between Premier League sides and the League of Ireland. Stephen Bradley on a poor showing in Iceland. Evan Ferguson scores two in Glasgow to down Celtic. Robbie Keane on taking the road less travelled. Arne Slot on the Mo Salah meeting. Mikel Arteta on Arsenal's William Saliba comeback. And the price of tickets for potential World Cup matches for Ireland fans next summer. Become a member and subscribe at offtheball.com/join

Zone 14 Coaching creates high-quality coach and player journals designed to help you plan with intention, reflect with purpose, and track progress all season long. MSC listeners get $5 off with code: ModernSoccer5 Learn more: zone14coaching.com This week Gary sits down with Fred Lipka, Technical Director of Youth Development at Major League Soccer. Few people have influenced the MLS academy landscape more over the past decade, and this conversation goes deep into what’s working, what’s broken, and what needs to change in US player and coach development. Fred shares powerful insight on why he believes American soccer has been “built upside down,” why the weekly rhythm should always be five days to develop, one day to perform, and why judging coaches solely by results is holding back both player development and coaching standards. We dive into: • The real purpose of youth competition • Why US soccer over-teaches with big numbers • The lack of 1v1 wingers and aggressive fullbacks • Touch limits, robotic players, and constraints-led training • Relative age effect and selecting the “big kids” too early • Why domestic coaches should stop feeling inferior • Inside the MLS–French Federation (EFCL) course • The rise of US talent and why Europe is watching • How MLS academies are building community, not isolation Fred’s honesty in this episode is exceptional, and his clarity on how to optimise the individual player — not just the team — is something every coach can learn from. If you enjoyed this episode, please: • Like the video • Subscribe to the channel • Leave a comment — Do you agree with Fred’s view on development vs results? Thanks for supporting the Modern Soccer Coach community.

Catarina Macario and Jaedyn Shaw powered the USWNT to a 2-0 win over Italy, sealing a fourth straight victory to close out 2025. Darian Jenkins, Lori Lindsey and McCall Zerboni break down the result and what it tells us about where Emma Hayes’ squad is headed. The crew digs into the team’s strongest emerging partnerships and how Hayes’ expanded player pool is reshaping the depth chart. Claire Hutton and Olivia Moultrie earn special praise, while Kate Wiesner impresses in her first senior call-up. And of course, the ladies wax poetic about Cat Macario and how the Chelsea star has quelled the Triple Espresso chatter with recent performances. The crew also tackle the puzzling omission of Emily Sonnett from U.S. Soccer’s Female Player of the Year nominees. And finally, they tie a bow on the USWNT’s 2025, from memorable moments to the storylines that will carry into the new year. Watch USWNT and NWSL games on P+" with a link to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.paramountplus.com/home/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Attacking Third is available for free on the Audacy app as well as Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher and wherever else you listen to podcasts. Follow the Attacking Third team on Twitter: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@AttackingThird⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@LisaCarlin32⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@SandHerrera_⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@Darian_Jenks⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@CCupo⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Visit the Attacking Third YouTube channel: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@wgolazo You can listen to Attacking Third on your smart speakers! Simply say "Alexa, play the latest episode of the Attacking Third podcast" or "Hey Google, play the latest episode of the Attacking Third podcast." For more soccer coverage from CBS Sports, visit https://www.cbssports.com/soccer/ To hear more from the CBS Sports Podcast Network, visit https://www.cbssports.com/podcasts/ To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Send us Fan Mail Welcome to the GP Soccer Podcast! Host Giovanni Pacini welcomes his worldwide audience talking about the high school state soccer finals that just took place. Lot's of great games! This week's "Conversation with the Coach" is with GP Soccer Podcast contributor Paul Robinson where the topic is player development in the UK versus the US. "Coaches Corne...

In this episode, Don Williams and Chris Cousins sit down with Dan Nimick, former SRUSA client and now professional footballer, to talk about his remarkable journey through the U.S. college soccer system and beyond. Dan shares how he first connected with Chris Cousins and the SRUSA team, how that relationship shaped his recruiting process, and his standout career at Western Michigan University, where he captained the Broncos and became one of the top players in the nation. He then takes us through his transition to the pro game — being drafted by Toronto FC in the MLS SuperDraft, and how the U.S. college pathway prepared him for life as a professional athlete. Dan also introduces his latest project, Ground Zero Soccer, a platform designed to help players develop their game both technically and mentally. Through Ground Zero, Dan and his team aim to give athletes practical, elite-level tools to elevate their performance and reach their full potential. Throughout the episode, Dan offers genuine advice for players and parents about navigating college soccer — from recruiting tips to balancing academics, staying resilient, and maintaining the right mindset to succeed on and off the field. 📩 Connect with Dan: 📸 Instagram: @dan_nimick ⚽ Ground Zero Soccer: @groundzero_soccer 🌐 Website: groundzerosoccer.net 📧 Email: [email protected]

Check out Duktig Brand here: https://www.duktigbrand.com/ MSC Analysis Course (USE CODE: MSCTACTICAL) https://www.modernsoccercoach.com/challenge-page/ecourseanalysis Per Mertesacker joins Gary for a deep dive into youth development, leadership, and the Strong Young Gunners philosophy that drives Arsenal’s world-class academy. In this conversation, Per explains how football teaches life, why character is the foundation of performance, and how Arsenal balances high challenge with high care across every age group. From the purity of the foundation phase to creating adaptable modern players, he shares a transparent look at what it takes to build people and players capable of thriving in any environment. We also explore the four-pillar framework used inside the academy, the importance of lifelong learning for both staff and players, and the reality that less than one percent will make it as professionals. Per’s perspective is a masterclass for coaches, leaders, and anyone working in player development. Topics include: • Person-first development and daily standards • Strong Young Gunners philosophy • Balancing challenge and care • Foundation phase environment • Creativity, super strengths, and modern player profiles • Staff development and coaching pathways • Managing expectations with parents • Preparing young people for life beyond football • The future of coaching and youth environments

Join MSC Insider Now: https://modernsoccercoach.mimentorportal.com/subscriptions In this episode, Gary is in Rio again to sit down with Caique Andrade from Flamengo’s U20 staff for an inside look at one of the world’s most demanding development environments. The conversation dives into the culture, expectations, and daily standards that shape young players at a club where intensity, identity, and pressure are part of the DNA. Caique discusses what defines a Flamengo player, how U20 athletes learn from world-class professionals every day, and why the club has shifted toward more technical and tactical profiles. He shares insights on creativity, decision making, analysis processes, and the challenges of working with players who come from diverse educational and social backgrounds. The discussion also explores the realities of the Brazilian pathway: constant competition, heavy match schedules, family expectations, and the resilience required to grow in an environment where opportunities are rare and the bar is extremely high. A fascinating look into culture, development, and the modern demands of youth football inside one of the biggest clubs in the world.

Alexi Lalas and David Mosse are back for a new episode of State of the Union. Alexi gives his thoughts on the USMNT’s November roster and the news that Tyler Adams has joined the likes of Christian Pulisic and Weston McKennie, no longer on the roster. Gio Reyna and Sergiño Dest both made appearances for their clubs this weekend but there is still no sign of the injured Antonee “Jedi” Robinson, leading Mauricio Pochettino to admit he is “worried” about the fullback. In the States, the conference semifinals are set in the MLS Cup Playoffs where the likes of Lionel Messi and Son Heung-Min are still alive and fighting for a title. In #AskAlexi, we argue against the idea that MLS isn’t good for player development and in his One for the Road, Alexi applauds El Tri youngster, Gilberto Mora, for his confidence in Mexico’s chances to win next summer’s World Cup. Intro (0:00)Tyler Adams OUT of USMNT Roster (06:27)Balogun & Agyemang bag goals (23:17)MLS Cup Playoffs: Messi is on FIRE (30:03)#AskAlexi: Back 5 victims for U.S (40:34)One for the Road: Mexico WC Favorites (50:24) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this special episode, SRUSA staff Don Williams, Chris Cousins, and Andre Luciano dive deep into one of the hottest topics in college athletics — the Transfer Portal — and how it’s reshaping the landscape of college soccer recruiting. The team unpacks: ⚽ The pecking order of college soccer recruiting 🔁 How the Transfer Portal has changed the face of recruiting 🎓 Advice for high school players aspiring to play college soccer 🧭 Recommended pathways for players entering or navigating the system 📋 How to manage the portal and make smart, strategic moves 🚫 The do’s and don’ts of transferring — plus key logistics and insider tips from former college coaches and players Whether you’re a player, parent, or coach, this episode is packed with expert insight from SRUSA’s experienced staff — helping you make informed decisions and avoid the common pitfalls in today’s evolving college soccer landscape. 👉 Looking to transfer? SRUSA can help through our Transfer Club — giving players exclusive support and expert guidance from former college coaches who understand the process inside and out. www.srusasoccer.com/transfer 🎧 Brought to you by SRUSA — The World’s Leading U.S. College Soccer Recruiting Agency 🌐 www.srusasoccer.com This episode is also brought to you by www.GapYearSoccer.com — the perfect bridge for players looking to continue developing before college. 📧 Contact Our Team: Don Williams — [email protected] Chris Cousins — [email protected] Andre Luciano — [email protected]