Pitchside Perspective Podcast

This week, we're joined by returning guest Ross McNeilly, former coach at Dorking Wanderers and Aldershot, to explore what really happens once the final whistle blows.

We break down the modern off-season: from post-season tours and player fatigue, to the growing trend of “pre-season before pre-season.” Are clubs overworking their players? Is the off-season becoming a myth? And how can coaches better support recovery while still ...

This week we’re diving into the ultimate Football Manager dream come true. Joined by Nathan Owolabi—a legend of the FM community turned real-life first-team analyst at Bromley FC—we explore how a passion for virtual tactics led to a pitchside role during a National League promotion push. After winning a competition run by Xbox and Football Manager, Nathan made the leap from screen to sideline, and he’s here to share the incredible ...

This week we dive into the meaning of Premier League legacy. With Kevin De Bruyne rumored to be leaving Manchester City this summer, we reflect on the impact he’s had—one of the greatest midfielders in Premier League history? Meanwhile, Mohamed Salah looks set to extend his time at Liverpool, strengthening his case as one of the league’s all-time greats. From goals and assists to trophies and cultural influence, we debate what defi...

This week, we dive deep into the archives to celebrate the mavericks — the rebels, the rule-breakers, the artists who lit up the league in their own unique way. These are the players who didn’t always follow the script, but made you fall in love with the game.

After Gary Neville questioned whether the Premier League has lost its flair players, we look back to see who makes it into our Top 10 Mavericks of all Time. From the outrageou...

This week we sit down with Nick Regan, Head Coach of VMI Men’s Soccer and USL W League’s Charlottesville Blues FC, to discuss rebuilding a college soccer program from the ground up and creating a positive environment. Taking over a struggling team, Nick used data-driven coaching strategies—influenced by his experience in the startup tech industry in the US, UK and Israel—to transform VMI into a competitive program, securing its mos...

This week we're diving deep into the evolving landscape of U.S. Soccer, with a special focus on the USL and its push for promotion and relegation. Joining us is Simon Baines, Sporting Director of the newly launched Westchester SC! With the club making its USL League One debut just weeks ago, Simon takes us behind the scenes of building a team from the ground up, the challenges of launching in a competitive soccer market, and the vi...

This week on Pitchside Perspective Podcast, the international break takes center stage as the Three Lions return to action. The big headline? Thomas Tuchel is set to take charge of England’s national team—a German manager at the helm of England. Is this a bold revolution or a risky gamble? We break down Tuchel’s squad selection, key inclusions and omissions, and what it reveals about his vision. Plus, after near misses in recent ma...

Join us for another episode of Pitchside Perspective as we dive into one of football’s biggest questions—what does it take to make it as a pro? We’re joined by Mark Phillips, whose journey from a 13-year-old Millwall recruit to a Championship and League One veteran, FA Cup finalist, and UEFA Cup competitor gives him unique insight into the game. With 15 years of coaching experience, Mark shares what separates those who make it from...

This week, we’re diving into the pressure-packed world of goalkeeping. In today's game, modern keepers are more than just shot-stoppers—they’re leaders, distributors, and decision-makers facing relentless scrutiny. We take a hard look at the mounting challenges, spotlighting Andre Onana at United, whose first two years have been marred by costly mistakes, along with Chelsea’s constant keeper changes and even Ederson showing signs o...

This week we’re joined by Febian Brandy, a former Manchester United academy standout who developed alongside some of the biggest names in the game. A talented young striker, he represented England at youth level and learned under the legendary Sir Alex Ferguson during one of United’s most dominant eras before carving out a career across England and abroad. But football isn’t just about talent—it’s about opportunity. Now, Febian is ...

This week we dive into the electrifying world of Football Freestyle with Freestyle World Champion Nick Seyda—aka NICKFREESTYLE! From dazzling crowds since the age of 13 to becoming a full-time pro, Nick’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. Battling through health struggles, he’s risen to the top, claiming titles like Routine Freestyle Football World Champion and performing on some of the biggest stages, including World Cup qual...

This week we’re joined by Lewis Benton, a die-hard Chelsea fan who’s back to talk all things Blues. With Enzo Maresca now at the helm, Chelsea’s revival is well underway, but is it the real deal? We’ll break down what’s changed, what’s working, and what still needs improvement as they push to re-establish themselves among the Premier League elite.

Beyond Chelsea, we’ll also take a look at some of the key transfers that have shaken u...

This week, we’re exploring the importance of continued development and how to build a strong coaching profile. The best coaches never stop learning, and GR Cannon joins us to share his journey. A former DC United pro, he’s held coaching roles at DC United’s Academy, Loudoun United in the USL, and the college level. Now the Founder and Director of Coaching at Shore FC, he’s completed his USSF courses and is currently pursuing his UE...

This week, we’re looking into the latest gossip from the January transfer window as the clock ticks down with just a week to go. We’ll break down the biggest rumors swirling around—will Isak make a big move? Could Manchester United really sell Garnacho? And is Trent Alexander-Arnold set for a shock transfer to Real Madrid? Beyond the speculation, we’ll discuss what clubs need to do in these crucial final days—who should strengthen,...

Joining us this week is Haydn Hollis, Tamworth FC’s standout performer in their unforgettable FA Cup clash with Tottenham Hotspur. We dive into the build-up to the thrilling third-round tie against the Premier League Giants, that audacious “Maradona” moment against Timo Werner that had everyone talking, and what could have been if FA Cup replays were still around. Haydn also shares insights into the incredible team spirit and toget...

Join us for a deep dive into life below the Premier League as we explore the world of League One football with a very special guest—Jack’s dad, Steve Koleszar. A lifelong Huddersfield Town fan and former scout for EFL clubs, Steve shares his unique perspective on the highs, lows, and passion of following a team in the lower tiers of English football. From the glory of promotion to the grind of survival, we cover it all in this insi...

This week we debate who makes it into our Premier League Team of the Season...so far. We put together the ultimate Starting XI, celebrating the standout players who have defined the Premier League campaign up to this point. From surprise rock-solid defenders to unstoppable goal-scorers, we highlight the stars who have set the standard for excellence.

It wasn’t easy—some tough decisions were made, and some big questions were ans...

Join us as we dive into the unique football cultures around the world with Groundhopper Soccer Guides’ Paul Gerald and Michael Bermudez. We explore how football brings people and communities together, from the chants that fill stadiums to the traditions fans hold dear. Hear incredible stories from our guests' experiences visiting games across the globe, including the electric atmosphere at Boca Juniors’ La Bombonera and the old sch...