In short
ESPN FC discussion of Chelsea’s 1-0 Premier League loss to Manchester United (“Chelsea in Crisis?”), Tottenham’s 2-2 draw with Brighton and relegation pressure, plus Copa del Rey final recap (Real Sociedad beat Atletico Madrid on penalties) and related coaching reaction.
Guests
Kay Murray, Craig Burley, Stevie Nicholl (studio analysts). “Jules” is a recurring co-host/commentator. Sid Lowe reports from the Copa del Rey final and interviews Real Sociedad coach Imanol/Pellegrino Matarazzo.
Key claims (Chelsea)
Chelsea are under “massive” pressure; top-four/top-five and Champions League qualification look unlikely. They’ve had four straight Premier League defeats without scoring, with possession but no chance creation. Rossignol/manager Liam Rossini is said to be losing support from fans/players; ownership/direction and Enzo Fernandez situation are criticized.
Notable examples
United’s smash-and-grab with 0.3 xG; Chelsea hitting the bar via Liam de Lappen; Joel Pedro not fit; Enzo back; booing at halftime and full time.
Key claims (Spurs)
De Zerbi’s positivity/discipline message (negative training attitudes sent home) but Spurs still fragile tactically; winless run extended; late defensive errors cost points.
Key examples (Copa del Rey)
Real Sociedad scored early (14 seconds) then equalized/penalty/Alvarez to extra time; Unai Marrero saved first two penalties; Sociedad won 4-3 on pens.
Written by AI. May contain mistakes. Listen to the episode to check what was said.
Chapters
Tap a time to open that second in VOChelsea's Struggles in the Premier League
1:01 to 1:52
Discussion about Chelsea's recent match against Manchester United and their current league position.
“where we got to see Chelsea taking on Manchester United.”
Impact of Chelsea's Latest Defeat
1:52 to 3:52
Analyzing the significance of Chelsea's defeat and the pressure on manager Liam Rossignol.
“Yeah, as I say, two teams are the same and then Everton will play Liverpool tomorrow.”
Critique of Chelsea's Performance
3:52 to 6:06
Evaluating Chelsea's gameplay, tactics, and players during their recent matches.
“So the end of the weekend could be even worse than the start of the weekend.”
Future Prospects for Chelsea
6:06 to 9:10
Exploring potential outcomes for Chelsea, including the importance of the FA Cup and the Champions League.
“then it's going to be very, very difficult.”
Discussion on Manchester United and Carrick
9:10 to 14:02
Analyzing Michael Carrick's tenure as Manchester United manager amidst recent performances.
“And actually, we've seen they're far from City, they're far from United today in a different way.”
Discussion on Managerial Decisions
14:02 to 14:50
Exploring the challenges and considerations in changing football managers.
“All we wanted to do was bring a manager in that wins.”
Thrivent's Financial Services Overview
16:00 to 16:47
Explaining how Thrivent combines financial services and community support.
“This is a job for Indeed sponsored jobs.”
Spurs vs Brighton Match Analysis
16:47 to 17:28
Breaking down the key moments and outcomes of the Spurs vs Brighton match.
“Spurs took on Brighton in a game that finished 2-2.”
De Zerbi's Coaching Challenges
17:28 to 19:30
Discussing De Zerbi's approach and the difficulties faced by the team.
“And before we talk more about them, let's hear from De Zerbi, who was asked after the game, how he lifts his players.”
Evaluating Spurs' Performance
19:30 to 21:24
Analyzing Spurs' recent performance and potential for improvement.
“And the only thing is, I'm not sure this positive attitude thing is just what they need.”
Show all 27 chapters
The Need for Tactical Change
21:24 to 23:24
Examining the necessity for Spurs to adapt their tactics to avoid relegation.
“But I think today, if ever a Spurs fan could maybe see a little chink of light, it had to be on the performance today.”
Upcoming Matches and Survival Chances
23:24 to 25:39
Discussing the implications of upcoming matches for Spurs' survival in the league.
“Villa away, Leeds at home, Chelsea away and Everton at home.”
Copa del Rey Final Recap
27:58 to 28:36
Recapping the exciting moments from the Copa del Rey final match.
“Copa del Rey final was quite the ride between Atleti and Real Sociedad.”
Emotional Victory for Real Sociedad
28:36 to 29:20
Discusses the emotional significance of Real Sociedad's victory and how the team has transformed.
“There's only Barcelona and Real Sociedad who've won it twice in the last eight seasons.”
Importance of the Trophy for Fans
29:20 to 30:18
The impact of winning the trophy on the supporters and the club's history.
“They watched the team that struggled so much during the first start of the season.”
Rino Matarazzo's Impact as Manager
30:18 to 31:31
Explores Rino Matarazzo's role in the team's success since taking over as manager.
“this is a club that is really special for the supporters.”
Tribute to Aito Zabaleta
31:31 to 32:56
Highlights the tribute to Aito Zabaleta and the significance for Real Sociedad fans.
“They were battling relegation at the time.”
Sid Lowe Reports from the Pitch
32:56 to 34:18
Sid Lowe shares his insights from the pitch, discussing the significance of the victory for Real Sociedad.
“But let's get word from Sid Lowe, who is there at the side of the pitch to witness all of this today.”
Youth Development at Real Sociedad
34:18 to 36:16
Discussion on Real Sociedad's youth development strategy and its success in recent years.
“Or at least it is in that end of the stadium, as you can imagine.”
Atletico Madrid's Future Challenges
36:16 to 42:00
Analyzes Atletico Madrid's potential challenges following their Copa del Rey loss.
“And this, for him and for them, is absolutely wonderful.”
Simeone's Legacy and Atletico's Challenges
42:00 to 43:10
Explore Simeone's impact on Atletico Madrid's history and current challenges.
“and what this might have meant for him tonight.”
Pellegrino Matarazzo on Penalty Shootouts
43:10 to 43:55
Insights from coach Pellegrino Matarazzo on the emotional toll of penalty shootouts.
“We'll be back when La Liga returns on Tuesday, 3pm Eastern, for kick-off there.”
Winning the Copa del Rey: A Coach's Perspective
43:55 to 46:11
Matarazzo discusses the significance of winning the Copa del Rey for his team and community.
“I mean, yes, there's tension, but there's tension throughout the whole game.”
The Support System Behind a Coach
46:11 to 47:55
Matarazzo reflects on personal sacrifices and the support from family in his coaching journey.
“We have the will to win, and we do whatever it takes to win.”
Celebration vs. Continuing the Fight
47:55 to 49:25
Matarazzo weighs the importance of celebrating the victory while focusing on future challenges.
“I mean, my family, my wife, my son have sacrificed so much for me to do what I'm doing.”
Extra Time: Liverpool and Managerial Decisions
51:43 to 56:00
The panel discusses Liverpool's recent performance and potential managerial changes.
“I don't think we're going to get any more surprises in our highlights today.”
Analysis of Player Form and World Cup Selection
56:00 to 57:34
Discussion on the current form of various football players and their likelihood of being selected for the World Cup.
“and three, that at some point, probably Paris' life would take over the Paris football, in a way, in Ronaldinho's life and that things could get very different very quickly.”
Transcript
Automatic transcript. May contain errors.0:00Thrivent believes money is more than numbers. It's a way to care for the people, causes and community you love. That's why Thrivent brings together a unique combination of financial services and generosity programs, offering advice, investments and insurance to help you plan your finances while creating opportunities to give back along the way. Through generosity programs that offer resources to fund service projects or direct charitable funds, Thrivent makes it easier to turn your values into action and support what matters most to you. With more than 120 years of experience and as a Fortune 500 company, Thrivent continues to serve individuals, families and communities across the country.
0:42To learn more, visit Thrivent.com. Thrivent, where money means more.
0:52Hello and welcome into the latest edition of ESPN FC. Kay Murray, Craig Burley and Stevie Nicholl here in the studio. We will kick things off tonight in the Premier League where we got to see Chelsea taking on Manchester United. Masrawi and Heaven at centre-back for Manchester United today. But it was Matthias Cunha who fired United ahead in the 44th minute. Another Bruno Fernandes assist, his 18th of the season. 1-0 it would finish to Carrick's men. And it's yet another defeat for Chelsea. Shall we start with Chelsea? Yeah, well, I mean, you look at Villa and... Jules is here. Hello, Jules. Welcome in.
1:27Hello, Jules. There's two teams above Chelsea with a game in hand that can almost go out of sight. So that's not... If they win, I think Liverpool and Aston Villa. And not just that, it's the teams below them. They look to me, there's two teams, I think, Brentford and somebody else, Bournemouth, I think, are on the same amount of points. but there's another three, at least maybe three, four teams that are within a couple of points of them. So they could easily go from six in the league. Yeah, as I say, two teams are the same and then Everton will play Liverpool tomorrow. Brighton are a point behind and I think even if you drop down to 11th, which we're not going to do, we're not going to bore you with that.
2:08So are they in the mix for the top four, top five? Depends what happens with Liverpool and Villa. Could they be sitting seventh, eighth or ninth in a couple of weeks? Yeah, they could. Simple as that. Now, we were doing the Copa del Rey, so we didn't have as much of an eye on this game. But this was a makeshift United side, certainly at the back. As you mentioned, Hevin and Masraoui as centre-halves. And Chelsea had a lot of possession. Of course, then you saw the graphic that came out, a lot of efforts at goal and they hit the bar. Liam de Lappen hit the bar. But ultimately, it is what it is.
2:42it's a game that they had to win to really keep on the tails of Villa and Liverpool. And are you going to get a better chance against this United side that were sort of patched up and you're at home? So this is nothing else than more pressure heaped on the Chelsea manager. It was a result that Rossini could have done without Jules. Yeah, absolutely catastrophic result. Even if you look at the game again, it's a bit of a smash and grab really from United. one shot target, 0.3 xG, didn't really do much the whole game. Not that Chelsea was much better, by the way. I thought it was a very low-quality game, despite the two clubs being big clubs, obviously, in the Premier League.
3:21But that's what we've seen all season long in the Premier League. But catastrophic result again for Liam Rossignor. And there was a bit more intent than last week against City. It was slightly better, especially considering Joel Pedro was not fit and was not even on the bench. so the lap is obviously not the same up front. Enzo was back, but it was still the worst result really they could hope for because as Craig said, I think if Sunderland, the team in XI is Sunderland, if Sunderland win tomorrow, they go above Chelsea. Same with Everton, who would go above Chelsea with 49 points. Both of them are on 46 right now.
3:58So the end of the weekend could be even worse than the start of the weekend. Chelsea booed off today, Jules, is that true? Yeah, again, at halftime and then at the end of the game But that was the same against City Of those seven defeats that you mentioned earlier Apart from the Port Vellois and the win in the FA Cup That doesn't really count against a Ligue 1 team Every time they've been booted, when they've lost at home They were booted, remember, against West Ham at home When they were 2-0 down at halftime They turned it around and won 3-2 But the atmosphere is really negative all around And again, we can go back to what we said we were all together last weekend after the City defeat, but Liam Rossignor is under massive, massive pressure, not just in terms of result from the club and this necessity to finish top five.
4:42Financially especially, it's vital for them to finish top five and qualify for the Champions League. But maybe even more importantly, I think from some corners of his own dressing room, his own players, but also most of the fans are against him now. And yet we had Bali come out in the last four or five days, Gilles, and make a statement about, And they've said this. I think Liam Rossini is sticking around. Remember in the quote, I think he's staying. Is that what he said? Yeah. No, I thought he said, I thought he was talking project and we were on the right path. But it was just still a little bit in that word.
5:15And I think he's sticking around. Well, I think, you know, when Liam Rossini came in, I mean, obviously the rhetoric has been obvious from day one. It's been a little silly. I'm being nice here. But I think there was a lot of Chelsea fans would want a young manager to work. as most clubs would. But I think, as Joel said, there is an edge at Chelsea now with not only the manager, but the ownership and the direction and how they operate. And I don't think the Enzo Fernandes scenario was handled very well at all. I mean, at all. So the whole thing, when you put that all together with results, and they were slightly better today, but ultimately they've lost against a United side that were patched up on the road.
5:59then top five's looking unlikely at the moment, not impossible but as I say if Liverpool and Villa both win tomorrow then it's going to be very, very difficult. Ultimately I don't think if they continue in the same manner in which they're on at the moment I really don't know how the board can sit down and say look we've got a very inexperienced manager here he's really struggled since he came in so we think he's the right guy to take us all the way into next season. I just don't think those narratives are going to fit together. We're looking at over six hours without a goal in Premier League play.
6:31It's four defeats in a row in the Premier League, all without scoring. This makes for ugly reading, Stevie. One win in all of that time at Aston Villa on March 4th. And if you've actually watched them in all of those games, then you won't be surprised. And then it happened again today. Regardless of how much possession they have, they don't create anything. You know, the highlights we've just shown are all balls thrown in the box. You know, there's no interchanges. There's no method. It's just somebody throwing a ball into the box. And that's all they had today. They never created one chance. Enzo Fernandes had a chance in the first half, and it came about because it ricocheted off two Manchester United players, and then he put it wide.
7:15That's it. so there's no reason to think that this run is not going to continue because defensively Manchester United had one shot on target but had they made some better decisions on the breaks they had they could have had two or three goals Kunia had a great opportunity in the second half at 0-0 if he'd taken it first time instead he took a touch it was a horrible touch so defensively they're looking vulnerable and going forward I mean Palmer coming up to a World Cup. If you're Thomas Tuchel, you're looking at Palmer thinking, when's this kid going to hit his straps to make it easier for me?
7:56How do I drop Phil Foden for Palmer when he's not doing anything? He's playing and doing nothing. At least Phil Foden's got an excuse that he's not actually on the field. But Palmer's done absolutely nothing to help this Chelsea side, as has pretty much the front five, if you include Enzo Fernandes in that. They don't look as though they're going to break Emre down. They didn't look like it today. They couldn't do it. So you wonder when they're going to do it. The top five, that'll seal his fate probably. But there's another game that could go a long way to doing it as well. And that's the FA Cup semi-final where they face Leeds United.
8:33Where Chelsea will be heavy favourites, albeit Leeds have almost got themselves to safety. Digging in and fighting and grit and all that. So there's a few scenarios along here that are huge games for him. but it's a difficult sell now to see how Chelsea are going to get in the Champions League places for next year, which for that club and a lot of clubs that have been in that competition on a regular basis, it's about the finances, it's about keeping the players that are there and it's about bringing fresh players in. And when you're not in that competition, those things become a lot more difficult.
9:04Is this the lifeline that Chelsea fans do have to be positive about right now? Jules, give them something to smile about. Yeah, it would have to be the FA Cup really because I think they had a lot of hopes of those two home games back-to-back United today and City last weekend to show something a little bit different because as we said it'd been a pretty rotten time between the Champions League knockout against PSG and then that form in the league that we showed the draw at home to Leeds the draw at home to Burnley when both times you were winning as well there were bad results so I think the fans were really hoping that those two games, they would expect the team to raise the level, Rossignol to raise his level.
9:45And actually, we've seen they're far from City, they're far from United today in a different way. But still, they lost the game. Even if it's smash and grab, they still lost the game. And the problem is, the boys talked about Palmer and those players up front today. This is a$1 billion team or squad assembled. And you look at today, Garnaccio, terrible performance. And he got a lot of stick from his former fans. Fair enough. The lap, not good enough Estevão going in after 10 minutes Neto, maybe just about a squad player For a normal Chelsea side Palmer, great But tonight, anonymous really If there's no movement around him There's not much he can do And then you go Enzo, he wants out Caicedo, the only good news of the week Is that they managed to somehow Extend Caicedo's contract I'm not sure that means he's going to stay until 2033 But at least, contractually He started with the club for that And that's the only good news of the week because the rest, we've said many, many times, all of us on the show, the squad is badly structured, the manager is out of his depth and now they are risked to have a really catastrophic season financially and sporting-wise too.
10:52On the flip side of this, Jules, even if it is, as you said, smash and grab for Manchester United, does this do anything for Carrick's future for the club? Yes and no, I think. Yes, certainly, because that third-place finish gets closer and closer and that's good. They had only won one of the last four Premier League games. Let's not forget, they're not in good form. And tonight was not a good performance at all. It's a win. You take it and you move on very quickly to next weekend. But it was not good against Leeds on Monday night, Old Trafford. They were really poor. I thought tonight they were not very good.
11:26They were not very good against West Ham. They were not very good against Bournemouth. Those kind of games, I think, despite the result, if you're, you know, the hierarchy at United and you look beyond the result themselves, just the results especially on the last few games you see that they're not playing well really and they had players missing especially four centre-backs tonight so they play Heaven and Mazraoui this is not usually okay fair enough that's true that's not on Carrick's but I think since the City win the Arsenal win their form hasn't been as good as those first two games under him Michael Carrick's problem is Ole Gunnar Solskjaer if that makes sense in what way?
12:06because Ole Gunnar Solskjaer did something similar. Came in, into him, smiley face, happy chappy. They got some results, got some good results. They gave him the job. And ultimately, it failed. And I think whilst they have hired the Mourinhos and Van Gaals of this world, and it's also not worked out, you have a lot more probability of success, I think, if you go for somebody who is more experienced. And so the Solskjaer situation has to be on the board's mind when they're looking at Michael. This is great. As Jules said, performance is not always great, but results are pretty much there. They're going to be in the Champions League next year.
12:49But is this another scenario of a man who was fired at Middlesbrough, ultimately, and has stepped into Man United as a former player and has steadied his ship? But is that enough to get the job? I mean, we have people like Andoni Areola, who has announced they're leaving Bournemouth. I presume he's gone back to Spain, but I don't know. People like him and others, I think, are a much better fit for big jobs long term. But I don't know which way Man United are going to go. It's going to be a really interesting end of the season. Some are to see what decision they make because they've made so many bad ones.
13:24They've made so many bad ones and they keep chasing after themselves. So is it just a case, Stevie, of Carrick's done enough? or do they go outside looking at what's the best scenario for the next five, six years here going forward? The only thing I would say, judging by their track record, if Carrick keeps winning, that's what they'll look at. There's no reason to think that they're going to be thinking the things that you've been talking about, the things that Jules was talking about, the Solskjaer factor. They've shown that they're not quite sure what they're doing. And if they're going to look at Carrick and Carrick wins out between now and the end of the season, they're going to think, well, why are we changing a guy who's...
14:04All we wanted to do was bring a manager in that wins. But that's what they did, weren't it, with Solskjaer? But again, you're giving them way too much credit for thinking like that. That's the problem. You'd like to think they would have a good due diligence around. But why? And if they come back and say, look, it's Michael Carrick, and here's the guy, and we've done our due diligence, that's their decision, and they'll live and die by that. They've not shown any reason why we should think that. That's the problem. All I'm saying is there's some very good managers out there. Not just in England, but around Europe, who have got way more experience than Michael Carrick.
14:37But will United cast a net that far out? Or will they just look at this as Michael Carrick's done a very good job. He's steadied the ship. He's getting it. Well, we're going to find out. Workplace chaos, deadline slipping, inbox overflowing. Your team's stretched thin. When you need someone who can step in and make an impact, This is a job for Indeed Sponsored Jobs. If you're hiring, hoping the right person sees your job post isn't much of a plan, Indeed Sponsored Jobs boost your job in search results so you can reach quality candidates faster. And you only pay for results. Sponsored jobs posted directly on Indeed are 95 % more likely to report a hire than non-sponsored jobs.
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16:04Thrivent believes money is more than numbers. It's a way to care for the people, causes and community you love. That's why Thrivent brings together a unique combination of financial services and generosity programs, offering advice, investments and insurance to help you plan your finances while creating opportunities to give back along the way. Through generosity programs that offer resources to fund service projects or direct charitable funds, Thrivent makes it easier to turn your values into action and support what matters most to you. With more than 120 years of experience and as a Fortune 500 company, Thrivent continues to serve individuals, families and communities across the country.
16:46To learn more, visit Thrivent.com. Thrivent, where money means more.
16:55Spurs took on Brighton in a game that finished 2-2. Spurs went ahead in the 39th minute through Pedro Porro, but then Brighton equalised with a wonderful goal. Mitoma with the finish after some great delivery from Pascal Gross. In the 77th minute, Xavi Simmons put Spurs ahead, curled it in, and Spurs thought they were on course for their first win of 2026. But in the 95th minute, it was a dramatic end as Jorginho Ruta would have a stoppage time finish to deny Tottenham Hotspur all three points. So Spurs stay inside the drop zone. And before we talk more about them, let's hear from De Zerbi, who was asked after the game, how he lifts his players.
17:35Actually, we don't have that right now. But one thing I did see... I've got another one. Look, Fulham can go level with Chelsea. See, it goes down to 12. Now you can see the bottom half. I told you that. You got your 11. This is what we're looking at. As for Spurs, though, winless in their last 15 Premier League matches. They thought they were on course today for their first win of 2026. Jules is still watching with us. One thing I do know that De Zerbe said after the game is that anyone with a negative attitude at training in the days that follow now will be sent home immediately. He believes, though, they can win all five games remaining, but it's going to be tough, Jules.
18:12Yeah, I believe in Santa as well. But that doesn't mean I'm going to get loads of presents at Christmas, you know. I can understand the super positive communication that he needs to have, and that's what he did in his pre-match press conference. That's what he did today again. and they were better today in the sense that they showed more heart and they were a bit braver on the ball, they pressed, they run. But really, everything that they should be doing anyway, the truth is it was still not good enough at the end because they still make mistakes. Because to be fair, a lot of those players are not really good right now.
18:50They're not very good right now. And it's just that everything is going against them in a way. So it can be as positive as you want. I don't believe there'll be a lot of people negative at training. Again, I was told this week a training was decent. The way they worked, what they did, what he saw, him as a new coach. But then comes the weekend. The first goal is a mistake by the goalkeeper. Their second goal is a worldie. OK, Simmons hit the post. And like Stevie said, completely rightly, if they go 2-0 up at halftime, I don't think Brighton ever come back. However, Brighton could also have been 2-0 up before the Verbruggen mistake to give the lead to Spurs.
19:28So he's still very fragile. And the only thing is, I'm not sure this positive attitude thing is just what they need. Because again, yeah, of course it helps, but he's still so fragile tactically, mentally, technically as well. Benton Cole coming back is good news. Madison was on the bench, but he's still so, so, so fragile. I'm detecting, Gilles, you're not a big Deserby fan. I think he's been a bit past. No, I am, Greg. I don't know if you were with it. I had a rant last week, to be honest, because I didn't understand at all what he tried to do against Sunderland last weekend on Sunday. For me, it was like if Tudor had been on the bench.
20:04And today was a bit better. I'm not saying that it was not better, but they still didn't win. It's still another game without a win. They're still in the bottom three. And by the way, if West Ham win tomorrow and Forest win tomorrow, they would have dropped points compared to them even more now. So there's a point where I'm all for positivity, and I think they need that right now. They need a bit of confidence. They need a bit of love. Sure, but like we said last weekend They need much more than that That's not just enough being Mr Positive They need to cut the mistakes out as well I know they do, but I'm thinking you've been off a house here By the way, Jules I mean Why?
20:39Because this sports team today Was a completely different team than we've seen all season It really was Yeah, yeah, yeah They showed character But it was still not good enough, Stevie They didn't win the game because Dan Shaw made a classic error at the end. Otherwise, they would have won this game and nobody could... Yes, Brighton had a couple of chances, but in terms of just take this game in isolation, if Spurs had played all season the way they went about this game today, they wouldn't be in the relegations zone. That's probably the best way I can put it. and I think we've given him plenty of stick and deservedly so over the season.
21:26But I think today, if ever a Spurs fan could maybe see a little chink of light, it had to be on the performance today. The Chavez-Semont chance was, you're not going to get a much easier chance. No, it was huge. If that goes in, it's a different ballgame. But then he was really strong today for Spurs, right? Well, let's be honest, it's about time. You spend£70 million, I think it was, on a guy. and the goal he scored is what you're expecting from him. But he did turn up and he did do it. And that's why I'm kind of... Just see a little bit of chink of light. Now, do I expect Spurs to go and start on a run?
22:03Win every game, no. I don't. But at the same time, if they perform and the desire and the commitment... You know, Joe said they were brave today. They were brave today. You know, you don't see teams in the bottom three who go out and try and play the way they did. now ultimately it might not end up working but my goodness if you're a Spurs fan there has to be a chink of light from the way they went about it. At least we saw Sam today from Spurs but the duels was right, last week against Sunderland it was nothing and I mean nothing particularly in the second half they looked as if they'd never seen a penalty box before, never mind get in one and score a goal, that's how flat it was, at least today alright you're at home against a side who try and play so the game's a bit more open.
22:48At least they created some chances today. Took some, missed a couple of sitters. But ultimately, I think if they don't cut out the mistakes at the back... Yeah, that's a problem. That's going to be their big problem. You have to find a way when you're down this. You can't just outscore people because you're down there for a reason. You've struggled most of the season. You've got to find a way to start keeping some clean sheets. It's clean sheets that are going to help keep you up because if you can get that base and you can nick a couple of goals, then all of a sudden you're picking points up.
23:19But if you're continually making mistakes at the back, then you're in trouble. So Tottenham have to play smart, otherwise they will be going down. Do you want to know the games? It's Wolves away, Villa... They can't win a game now, Wolves. Villa away, Leeds at home, Chelsea away and Everton at home. I think if they lose... Is Wolves their first game, their next game? I think Wolves away, did you say at Molineux? Wolves away. I think if they lose that game at Molineux, they've gone. I think if they lose that, and Jules mentioned, there's others playing, Forrester playing, West Ham are playing tomorrow.
23:51We don't know what's going to happen there. But if they pick up points, one point or three points, and Tottenham go to Wolves with all the games you mentioned, they have to win the game at Molyneux because they're already down. They've gone. They lose that game at Molyneux, I think Tottenham will go. How has it come to this, Jules? Well, we know how it comes to this. Thomas Frank and Igor Trudeau. And I agree with Stevie. I thought it was better today. I'm just saying that by the end of the weekend on Monday night when West Ham played, they could be worse off than they were before this weekend.
24:23So it's all good to be a bit better. And finally we expected them with the Zerbe after three weeks in charge now to finally see something a bit different, which we did. But it was still very fragile. And again, not good enough in the end. So I'm sure you can take some positive out of it. However, if West Ham and Forest win, you're worse off than you were 24 hours ago, which is not the idea. You hired him to actually be better off than what you were before he arrived. And now within two games in, they could be further behind 17 plays than they were when he took over. And that's the only thing, which is the reality.
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24:56And yeah, they were a bit unlucky today not to win, maybe, but this is still the reality for them. And yes, for me, it's all down to two games for them, Wolves away and Leeds at home. And there will be a game in between, but those two games, there will be Villa in between, but those two games, this is it. This is where if they get those six points, they will stay up. If they don't get six, if they get four, if they get two, if they get zero, if they get one, it doesn't matter. I can see them going down. But I expect them to win those two games. And by the way, by the time they play Leeds, I think Leeds might be safe anyway.
25:28So yeah, I think they will stay up and it's a bit better today. But again, I know I've said it, they could be worse off than they were 24 hours ago, which is not the idea here. So he's got to use today's game surely to rally his players for what's ahead. Yeah, absolutely. Yeah, and I like what he said about I don't want him to be turning up on Monday with a head between the legs. I mean, it's the exact same attitude as an old manager of mine at Sheffield Wednesday had when we were in a relegation battle. He'd said exactly the same thing. Now, what for us? It's going to be a little harder for Spurs, but you never know.
26:01You never know. Unlike when we were in a relegation battle at Derby and Jim Smith came in on a Monday and called us all cowards. he said he came around a monday morning and said you're all a bunch i quote you're all a bunch of moral cowards that's inspiration for you yeah i don't think he's going to be doing that after what we've heard from him a sofi personal loan is here to help you achieve something once thought impossible overcoming high interest credit card debt walk the tightrope of your finances with one low fixed rate monthly payment no fees required and as soon as the same day funding That's right.
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27:57Application times and rates may vary. Copa del Rey final was quite the ride between Atleti and Real Sociedad. And Baron Aceh scored within 14 seconds to put La Real ahead. Then Adamola Luckman would level things out in the 19th minute. In the late stages of the first half, Oyar Sabal would score a penalty to put Real Sociedad 2-1 up. But as we got to the later stages of the game, Julian Alvarez would score to send it to extra time. In extra time, nobody scored and so it went to penalties. And in that penalty shootout, Solot and Julian Alvarez both took first for Atleti. And both of their penalties were stopped by Unai Marrero, the MVP on the day for Real Sociedad, who went on to win this game 4-3 on penalties.
28:46Look at this. There's only Barcelona and Real Sociedad who've won it twice in the last eight seasons. Sid Lowe is talking a lot about this in our pre-game today. this cup we've seen a lot of different winners in that time and here are those fans who were denied the chance to celebrate back in 2021 and today they get to do so luis garcia was watching with us today emotional scenes for real sociedad yeah definitely emotional it's been a fantastic and exciting game they didn't have the chance and opportunity back in 2021 to celebrate it and today. They watched the team that struggled so much during the first start of the season.
29:26And since the moment that Rino Materazzo landed at San Sebastián, this team looks totally different. It's a joy to watch. Aggressive, dynamic, with a lot of intensity. We thought that they were going to run out of legs. And we've seen it in the second part of the game where Atletico Madrid dominated, created more chances. We saw the last 45 minutes. but they went to extra time and they reacted once again. They managed to keep Atletico Madrid away from their goal. Just a couple of chances for both teams. And in the day it was on penalties. There is a little bit of a lottery, but the keeper has done it before.
30:05And today kept the composure, saving the first two penalties and putting the pressure on Real Madrid fans. And really, really emotional this moment because, as he mentioned, this is a club that is really special for the supporters. Sometimes a lot of teams say, or the media, we say that the teams don't give much credit, but you can see how is the feeling of winning this trophy for the supporters, for the clubs, and, of course, for the players. So a really special day for this crowd, and hopefully we can see a lot more of these teams that don't have many chances of being on a final. having their option and of course like today sharing them with the supporters.
30:52Am I reading that right? They put a strip in front of the supporters there with 12 on it. 12th man. I'm kind of reading it. Maybe I'm wrong, I don't know. But, oh well, that's a bad, is it? I had Zabal Holden there with the name Zabaleta on it. But I want to talk about Rino Materazzo because we've sent Sid Lowe on a wild goose chase to find the Real Sociedad manager, we always knew that in the Bundesliga, his family back in New Jersey, they go into the garage to watch the games. I'm hoping that they're there in Seville tonight to experience this for him. Because when you talk about the job that he's done with this team, as we've mentioned, he took over in December.
31:34They were 15th. They were battling relegation at the time. He's taken them up to a battle for the European spots and to lift a trophy today. That's incredible, Craig. He's done a great job. and it's always good to see that. It's always better to sit here in this job and see people doing well rather than having to do the negative side of it. But that's part of the job. And also, and the boys mentioned it in commentary, like a lot of clubs, you think about all the good players that go. Zubi Mendy was the one that went in the summer. Before that was Mikel Moreno. Before that was Alexander Izak. I think Alexander Sorloth was there as well at one point.
32:12David Silva was a Real Sociedad player who went on and then went back to the club at the end. So they've always just, like a lot of clubs, I'm not alone, they've always sold their top talent. And yet they've always been a very strong team in Spain, albeit they struggled certainly the first half of this season. That's why Matar actually got the job. But what a huge travelling support they've had there down in Seville. Amazing. What does that stadium hold by? I think it's like 70 ,000, 80 ,000 or 90 ,000. It looks as if it's huge. It's huge and we're going to hear from Sid. But just to mention the name on the shirt there, Aito Zabaleta, was a Real Sociedad supporter who was murdered back in 1998.
32:48And ever since then, the Real Sociedad fans and team have played tribute to that man as well. So that's always nice to see. But let's get word from Sid Lowe, who is there at the side of the pitch to witness all of this today. Sid, your reaction to what we've seen tonight? Well, I mean, in terms of the occasion, in terms of what Rauz of the Dad have just achieved, it's absolutely fantastic. We were talking when we pre-game about the fact that, excuse me, that Rauz of the Dad won the Copa del Rey five years ago. They won it in 2021. It was actually the 2020 final. But because of the coronavirus pandemic, they waited an entire year for one reason.
33:27Them and Athletic Club, their opponents, said we don't want to play because we want to play with our fans. We want to give them the longest possible chance we can to get them in this stadium. In the end, even waiting a year wasn't enough. So they won that final 1-0. Mikel Ojozhabar scored a penalty, as he did tonight during 90 minutes, but not in the shootout because he wasn't out there anymore. But they were desperate because they felt like something had been missing. Although that was supposedly the final to end all finals against their Basque rivals, it was not in front of their people. And tonight, I think, feels like it's extra special because they missed out on this.
33:58these fans haven't seen Real Sociedad lift a trophy since 1987. Almost 40 years they've been waiting for this. Most of those fans, well, I'd say maybe 50 % of those fans up there weren't even alive then. So this is absolutely enormous for them. And the atmosphere in Sevilla throughout the day has been wonderful and it's fantastic in the stadium now. Or at least it is in that end of the stadium, as you can imagine. The other end is now emptied out. Yeah, absolutely. Let's just stick with Real Sociedad for a minute if we can, Sid. Unai Marrero, the hero on the night, the second string keeper. who stopped those first two penalties.
34:30What an incredible story. Gets MVP as well. Yeah. Well, what a lot of Spanish teams do is what they also thought they'd have done in this Copa del Rey, which is to have their second-choice goalkeeper start for them throughout the Copa del Rey and to make the decision that this is our goalkeeper for the Cup. And even if we reach the final, we're not going to put the first-choice goalkeeper in. Now, in the case of UNA, it's even more key that you do that because he's already been a hero in a shootout. He's already been their superstar, bringing them to this final, and he's a youth teamer, he's a guy that was born in San Sebastian, the city where Real Sociedad is, a Real Sociedad supporter as a kid and so that moment was really, really special.
35:07So he made two penalties earlier on in the competition, two penalty saves rather, earlier on in the competition, two more penalty saves tonight and I like the moment as well when at the end there, he goes to Pablo Marin and has a word with him and says, go on, take us over the line. Pablo Marin, another youth team player, scores the penalty and everyone goes wild. Now, I think it's worth just pausing momentarily on this. I must confess, I lost count in the end of the substitutes coming on and off. So I'm going to give you the figures from the starting 11. The starting 11. And as I say, a whole load of youth team has came on the pitch as well for Real Sociedad.
35:39But the starting 11, of those 11 players, seven of them were Real Madrid, sorry, Real Madrid, Real Sociedad Academy players. Six of them are from Guipuzcoa, the province that San Sebastián is in, and the smallest province in the whole of Spain. This is an extraordinary achievement. And I think what that does as well is it tells you not only how big an achievement it is, but how closely identified these fans are with the club. And that, to go back to where we started with this, is one of the reasons why Rino Matarazzo has been so successful, because he's understood that, because he's embraced the community, not just the club, the community, the city, the people.
36:16And this, for him and for them, is absolutely wonderful. Sid, what would be, talking about all those kids coming through and the difference in big names really from Atleti, Barca, Real Madrid to Real. What would be like a big spend for them if they were going on a transfer fee, if they were signing a player? Well, I mean, this is the curious thing. If you go through the team, I've actually got my notebook as you know, Craig, that I was always full of these kind of stats. You go through the team, there's actually quite a few relatively expensive players in Spanish terms in the Real Sociedad side.
36:47So Bryce Mendes who started on the bench Carlos Soler who was only four million, but you've got Takekubo You've got who else is it? I'm trying to think who the other one will be So go on there see those players that we're talking 10 15 million euros But those are big signings Ori Oskerson who came on I think was 19 million years These are really big signings from Real Southampton's point of view and they have a policy Which is what we want to bring youth teamers through and they set a target and the target is that in the first team they would like at least 60 % of the players to be youth teamers and that within the youth team structure they would like 80 % of the players coming through the youth team to be people who were born and raised in Gipulca which as I say is the smallest, geographically speaking the smallest province in the whole of Spain they do absolutely fantastic work at Fulbieta which is their training ground and I think it's played off again tonight and that does give them I think a depth of identity that makes them that little bit more special as well Well that's incredible to hear isn't it Stevie to think of the passion that they must all have playing for their team.
37:47Yeah, I mean, it's incredible. I actually thought of Celtic when he was thrown out all the stats. You know, the fact that all of the players came from Glasgow. So it's kind of a similar thing. But of all the things that we've seen today, the greatest thing is that the fans actually got to be there. Because sometimes when you look back in the history books, you'll say, well, they've already won a trophy. Why are they going so crazy? But the fact is, it probably doesn't feel to them as though they really want it. In black and white, it's on the sheet of paper that they did. But because they're not there, because you're not involved in it, so now they can scrap that.
38:28They can throw that old newspaper away. There's a new one, and we're here, and we're enjoying it. I think it is also for clubs like Real Sociedad, who are habitually around the European places in Spanish football, albeit this year's been more of a struggle although they are back up there now since Matarazzi took over it's validation isn't it in terms of alright you've got some spend as Sid said but it's not crazy it's not Real Madrid and Bas it's not Premier League money for sure it's 4 million here maybe 7 million there Sid mentioned 19 million but to have so many people that have came through the youth system it's validation that at least your club is doing something right and it's difficult to continually bring that amount through and go to the first team and they're good enough and all that sort of stuff, it's not easy to continue to have that conveyor belt.
39:15You're going to have maybe some years that are more sparse than others where there's not as many good kids coming through, but it's validation that that's the way they run this club. It's run within a pretty strict budget. It's got a magnificent fan base and it can still compete. And I think that's the most important. It's all very well bringing kids through from the youth team. That's great. But you still have to be able to compete in doing so. And clearly Real Sociedad have very much competed today. Yes, and they've beaten one of the big teams in La Liga today, Luis Atleti. What does it mean now for them?
39:44How will they pick themselves back up with the Champions League semifinals in their sights? Yeah, fortunately, they got that in their hand. It's still an option of winning a trophy, a very big trophy. And now they have to focus on that. No longer ago, they were changing and rotating a lot of players. when they had to play in La Liga competition, focusing on beating Barcelona on those quarterfinals. And now that they are in the semifinals, I guess the Simeones got very clear in the head that the Champions League is the primary option. They got that on their head. So I guess changing their mindset is going to be pretty quickly.
40:24They did a good effort. I mean, it's true that they have to get back from behind every single time from receiving and conceded that first goal early on the game. It's not easy to get back against a team that is well-organized and really intense. So it's been a good game. It's not that Atletico Madrid didn't show up today. But I am sure that Simeone is going to manage well his players. They got the option very soon to get back into the field. That's the best way of changing the mindset and having an option of playing in another final, knowing that they've been in two finals, they didn't have the chance of lifting it.
41:03I'm sure that Simeone is going to do whatever it takes to get ready all those players to fight against Arsenal. Yeah, well, it definitely probably doesn't hurt as much with what Luis has just said, Sid, the fact that they do now have this massive semi-final coming up in the Champions League. Yeah, I suppose the question mark then would be whether this impacts upon that semi-final, whether this takes something away from them or gives them a little bit of extra drive. Obviously, it's not like it often happens in the Cup of the Ray when you're knocked out early. You think, well, this is good because it takes games out of the schedule.
41:31It allows us to be a little bit fresher. It makes no difference from that point of view, of course. And I do think emotionally this will hurt. And Simeone was saying yesterday this was more than just winning a cup. It was about a momentum. It was about the things that they're trying to do, the things that they're trying to be. But there's no doubt that they will fight to the last in the Champions League. And I think they will feel at least that they have... Sorry, I was just checking what's happening behind me. They will feel at least that they have a chance of getting through against Arsenal and making it to a third final.
41:58I think it's worth just picking up briefly on Simeone, you know, and what this might have meant for him tonight. Simeone, ever since 1996, Atletico Madrid had only won two Copa LRAs and both of them involved him, one as a player, one as a manager. Now, obviously, he's lost a final. They've only ever been in three European Cup finals. Two of them are him as manager. He's looking for a third. They've only ever won two league titles. They're both with him as a manager since 1996 when they won it and he was there as a player. And so he will still be driven by the desire to, I think, settle a debt almost when you think back to what happened in the Champions League finals in both Milan and Lisbon when they lost to Real Madrid.
42:38I think they'll be relieved that Real Madrid aren't still in the Champions League final. And I think that will drive them, but I suspect that tonight will hurt. OK, Sid, we're going to let you go and find Pellegrino Matarazzo, your new mate. He's only got one job. You've only got one job to do, I said, tonight. Don't let us down. Let's see if I can find him. OK, you're causing Reno and everything now. The best buddy. Luis, you've been up all night as well. We're going to let you go to bed. What about us? You've got to keep going. You've got to keep going. You've got to stick with me. You too, Stevie.
43:07So here we go. Thank you so much, guys. Real Madrid against Alaves. We'll be back when La Liga returns on Tuesday, 3pm Eastern, for kick-off there. And the following day, Wednesday, brings us Barcelona against Celta. ESPN Plus, as you've covered, for both. Everything else on the latest edition of the Gab and Jules show. But the good news is Sid Lowe has caught up with Pellegrino Matarezzo. So let's get word now from the Real Sociedad winning coach.
43:35You see, some would call this biased journalism, but when the manager gives you the scarf, I don't think you've really got very much choice but to put it on. And with a very, very happy man, can you try and explain more or less what goes through your mind during a penalty shootout and what goes through your mind when the final penalty goes in?
43:55Is that a no?
43:58Exactly that. I mean, yes, there's tension, but there's tension throughout the whole game. We had a phase in the second half where we were suffering, and that was for me even more nerve-wracking. I knew we got to the penalties. We played a good game. We competed against Atletico de Madrid's team that's in the semi-final of the Champions League. I'm really, really proud of the boys. And I knew regardless of what happens, the whole city, the whole region would be proud of the boys. But, you know, if you're in a penalty shootout, you also want to win it. And when we've scored the last goal, of course, it was a magical moment.
44:40Presumably you have a sense, a feel for how big this is for the people. Because obviously they did win a Copa del Rey here five years ago. but you have to go back 38 years the last time they won it in front of fans and there's been I think throughout these five years a sense that something was missing back then I don't know how much that's being communicated to you whether that's a too much pressure or or that makes more joy of the occasion even before you win I mean obviously no it was definitely communicated to us that that it's very important for the fans because they were not the last last title and But pressure, I mean, this is our job.
45:20This is our job. This is our job. And yes, of course, a final brings another tension, another level to it. But we had so much support from the fans, from the entire city, which gave us more strength and not pressure, more the feeling that we were completely supported and we can just go for it today. Tell me about the psychological moments of a game like this, because for me at least, the thing that most struck me probably was that in the first nine minutes of extra time, you had six shots. Having had to resist in the second half, having watched Atletico come closer, having been five minutes from winning it and then them equalising and almost winning it them as well, for your team to then kind of stand back up again and say, right, let's do this again.
46:07It's a recurring theme, I think, since you've been manager. Yes, it is. It is. Why? What's happening? Because we are...
46:16We have the will to win, and we do whatever it takes to win. The character of this team is unbelievably positive, strong character. And it was important also to start controlling more of the game. We lost control of the game. We didn't get into a high press anymore. We didn't have any possession in the last second half, and we knew, okay, now we have a couple of minutes to rest, and now we attack higher, try to have more possession, control the game more. That was what we tried to do in the overtime. And I think it worked well. We were more in the game. They didn't have that many chances. So, yeah, boys, keep stepping up.
46:54There's a word in Germany, Stehelfmänner. It means you fall down. People that fall down, they just get back up again. There's like this toy that falls down and gets back up again. Like a weeble. There was a toy that was called a weeble that did that. We're weebles. Weebles wobble, but they don't fall down. That was the advert. Weebles wobble, but they don't fall down. We weeble, we wobble, but we don't fall. And we get up again. Tell me about you. And tell me about these last few months. And tell me about what it means to see your family in the stands. And how they must feel seeing you achieve this.
47:33Knowing the journey that you've been on. Knowing the moments in which you could have turned back. you could have turned away and you didn't?
47:43These questions are... See, last time you escaped this one. When I asked you this last time, you escaped this question. Why did I come over to this interview? You made it? It wasn't mandatory. Okay. No, they're super happy. I mean, my family, my wife, my son have sacrificed so much for me to do what I'm doing. You know, we've lived apart for five years. We're living apart again. My wife, who is very independent and strong, has supported me so many years and has always pushed me. I think I mentioned this to you in the last interview that there was a time where I was thinking, okay, maybe I'll settle with the family.
48:20She said, no, no, you're going to keep going because this is your dream. And I did. So she's sacrificed so much. So this win, this title is also for my entire family, not just my wife and my son, but for my parents who have given me so much strength and love. and all my ancestors and everything. I'm a big family guy. You know, I come from a big Italian family, and so this one's also for them. Now what? Continue. I said this is my... But do you take a... I mean, obviously, you continue because you want to keep competing, but do you take a moment to kind of go, look what we've done? Is it important to celebrate?
48:59We play on Wednesday. Yeah, that's the problem. Yeah, we play on Wednesday against Getafe. and fifth place is still possible Champions League and yes we qualify for Europa League with with this title which is fantastic fantastic look forward to that three competitions next season but you know there's more there's more there's more there's more to win and but of course we're going to celebrate tonight it's clear we're going back to the hotel we're gonna have dinner with the families with when you flying back to Donosti tomorrow tomorrow going back tomorrow and then we'll probably party again tomorrow.
49:32Yeah, I would like to think you would take at least a couple of nights over this. I know you've been learning little bits of Basque with your Spanish, so I assume you've had a few people say jodoniak to you tonight. Yes, they did. Esquericasco. Very much a pleasure. Congratulations. Thank you. Thank you very much. Well, there you go. A very happy man.
50:00Well, he didn't fail. He didn't fail us this time, old Sid. He got his man. Sid, Football America special. You can check that out. It is streaming right now on ESPN+. Smalls here, look, I get it. GLP-1 weight loss shots are popular. They're everywhere. But not everyone is thrilled about weekly injections. So what if your GLP-1 was as easy to take as a mint? That's why I want you to know about compounded terzepatide. It's a mint-flavored tablet you simply let dissolve under your tongue. No needles. It's designed to help curb appetite and reduce cravings, even sweets and carbs, which are my personal enemies.
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51:43I think that's it. I don't think we're going to get any more surprises in our highlights today. Maybe a few more highlights from the Borussia Dortmund-Hoffenheim game. By the way, is the Liverpool game cancelled tomorrow? Oh, yeah, because we're doing ESPN FC earlier. You're a bit annoyed about this, right? What? Liverpool, not important anymore. Extra time's on the way next. See you over there. Liverpool are playing at nine. Welcome into the latest edition of Extra Time. Stevie, what's wrong? I just wonder whether the Liverpool event game has been cancelled. Why? Well, nobody's bothered about it.
52:16What are you talking about? because we're doing the show at 1.30 tomorrow? No. Right. Oh, we never... We never even mentioned it. We never pre-edited it. That's just... Merseyside Derby doesn't matter anymore. Does it matter? Both teams are rubbish. Oh, you're right. Does it matter? Apparently not. OK, we've got Jules with us as well. We've got no music today. I know some of you will probably be quite happy about that, no music on Extra Time, but let's get to some of the questions, shall we? I can sing it I'll hum I'll hum the tune Go on then You know where the technical difficulties came from The Brucey Adoptment Highlight Whenever the Hoffenheim chances come in the control room went on fire Aye Yes Right let's go on with this Craig can you make a case for a senior to stay on beyond this season No That's quite a simple one Should Chelsea bring in Lampard for the FA Cup semi can anyone realistically believe Rossini as Chelsea can beat Leeds?
53:17Jules. I mean, no to Lampard, let's be serious here. Although he probably would do with the momentum and the confidence that he has now after taking Coventry back up to the Premier League after all those years, maybe actually he would be better than Rossini. I think a lot of managers would be better than Rossini, but it can happen. I believe that Leeds will knock out Chelsea at Wembley next weekend. I see the generators working. Yeah. Music again. Okay, Stevie, pick one of these three coaches for Liverpool next year. See, we have mentioned Liverpool. Keep Slott, Xabi Alonso or Andoni Iriola? Ooh.
53:59Oh, it's got again. The tough ones, I like Iriola. I like the way Bournemouth played again.
54:14Under normal circumstances I would have said Alonso but he absolutely bombed at the El Madrid and you have to take that into consideration.
54:31However, I don't think that FSG, the final slot is not going to be there at the start of the season. I don't see how FSG don't go with Alonso. So I'm going to go Alonso. That's what you'd pick regardless of what happens. This is your choice. Keep slot, Xabi Alonso or Erreola? I think so. I think ultimately. If something happened with Alonso and he didn't want it or they weren't keen on what happened at Real Madrid, I would have absolutely no problem with Andoni Erreola next season. Jules was watching the Ronaldinho Netflix documentary With your PSG roots, what was your reaction when he first signed for PSG?
55:13Because at the time, PSG was not the powerhouse that they are now. Were you shocked that he signed for PSG? Yeah, I haven't watched it yet. A few of my kids have watched it, my brother as well, and everybody seems to say that it's great. I mean, I promise you, in Europe, not many people knew about how good he was or not in Brazil right when he arrived but we knew there was this kind of like Brazilian gem coming over and that it could well be very special so you can just imagine the excitement suddenly in our house and then first game after five minutes it was just obvious one that he was almost a genius two that he would be great for PSG but not stay for too long and three, that at some point, probably Paris' life would take over the Paris football, in a way, in Ronaldinho's life and that things could get very different very quickly.
56:12And that's exactly what happened. First season, very good, amazing player. Second season, still amazing player, very good. Last season, and a lot of parties. But hey, that's part of the character. But it was an amazing, really, it was an amazing time to have him at the club. What year was that, Jules, when he signed? 2000. 2000? Long time ago. I can't remember. Well, you're not in that documentary, Jules. You often pop up on these type of documentaries.
56:43No, I could not do this one. The date didn't match. I'm not watching it then. All right, Craig, is Palmer going to the World Cup? Yes. Probably. Maybe. Came up tonight, didn't it, in the show, Steve? Look, he's not exactly... We've talked long and hard about the French players, you know, Dembele and Dewey and Bercola and particularly Michael Alissi and others. And they're all... It seems most of them are all gathering momentum at a great time. Playing well, finishing the season strongly. Tuchel's got the opposite problem. He's got Bellingham coming back in at Real Madrid. He's been out. He's got Foden out at Man City.
57:26he's got Palmer off form I haven't seen much of Morgan Rodgers recently because I haven't seen a lot of Villa recently but he's been a big player so I don't know exactly what his form's been like. He's been good, he's still been doing it So yeah, obviously Harry Kane's fit again and playing again at Bayern and that's huge but in terms of playmakers Bukaya Saka was another one, hasn't been playing well, has also injured so there's a lot of players that we thought, well, Thomas Tuchel's going to have a hard time selecting the best one out of these. Well, actually, there's actually not many of them in any type of form, never mind fitness.
58:06So I think Parma will go to the World Cup. I would imagine he would. But he's not playing well. OK. It's a shame for England, really, isn't it? Oh, God, he's... Don't have a blow-off, you're a Scottish person. You get the final say on this one, Jules. I think it's very simple it's Foden or Palmer I don't think Tuchel will take both so and like Stevie said earlier at least Palmer is playing I know he's not playing great but he's playing Foden is not even sometimes coming off the bench so I think for me right now it would be Palmer going and Foden staying at home but he can very quickly change but I don't think both of them will go that'll do it unlike the Borussia Dortmund Hoffenheim highlight this was short and sweet tonight Thank you so much for sending in your questions.
58:54We will be back tomorrow to do it all over again.
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From the publisher
The FC crew react to Chelsea's 1-0 loss vs Manchester United and question if Liam Rosenior should remain in charge of the club after a 4th consecutive loss in the Premier league. Plus, the guys break down why they think Spurs will struggle to stay up after the club drew Brighton. Sid Lowe also catches up with Real Sociedad manager Pellegrino Matarazzo after the club won the Copa del Rey.
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