THE CALL IN SHOW FINALE

24 Jul 2026 · 1 h 5 min · 27 chapters

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In short

World Cup final fallout (Spain vs Argentina) and predictions for the upcoming Premier League season, driven by callers.

Guests/backgrounds

No named guests; it’s a host plus multiple callers. Callers include an English fan discussing Spain/Argentina, a Premier League-focused caller predicting Arsenal/City outcomes, a Chelsea-focused caller (Alex) arguing Chelsea could finish top 2-3, and others debating relegation, top four, and Man United’s title chances.

Key claims

Spain deserved the World Cup; Argentina are “not a real side” and are dirty. Messi’s legacy won’t be harmed by the ending; Rodri should win the Golden Ball. For the Premier League, Arsenal and Man City are the main title contenders; Chelsea are the “most interesting” team but unlikely to win. Carrick at Man United is viewed as a “wait and see” appointment, not a title-winning setup.

Notable examples

Debates around Cucurella/Parades red-card reports; set pieces as Arsenal’s edge; Saliba injury timing; Chelsea signings like Morgan Rogers; relegation guesses (Ipswich, Hull, Sunderland); Man United defensive concerns (goals conceded).

Written by AI. May contain mistakes. Listen to the episode to check what was said.

Chapters

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Discussion on Spain's Victory

0:12 to 0:46

Hosts discuss Spain's win and compare it to England's chances.

Argentina's Performance Critique

0:46 to 1:52

Hosts critique Argentina's performance in the final.

Messi's Legacy and Performance

1:52 to 2:32

Debate whether Messi's legacy is impacted by the final match.

Tournament Highlights and Player Performances

2:32 to 4:30

Analysis of standout players and key moments from the tournament.

“He obviously needs more help than he got.”

Excitement for the Upcoming Premier League

4:32 to 4:46

Discussion on the anticipation for the new Premier League season.

“the first caller, you're probably thinking, where are the beers?”

Predictions for Premier League Teams

4:46 to 10:40

Debate over which teams will excel in the upcoming Premier League season.

“What do you want to talk about, my friend?”

Chelsea's Prospects and Strategies

10:40 to 14:00

Discussion on Chelsea's chances and strategies for the new season.

“Like, they were in for Rodgers, but I don't think they wanted to spend that money.”

Chelsea's Prospects for Next Season

14:00 to 17:04

A discussion about Chelsea's potential lineup and performance in the upcoming season.

“My theory on Chelsea was, and look, it's just a theory, guys.”

The Impact of New Signings

17:04 to 18:56

Analyzing the effects of recent signings and coaching changes on Chelsea's future.

“Hope you have a brilliant summer and I'll maybe see you soon.”

Controversial Opinions on Chelsea's Future

18:56 to 23:04

Callers express contrasting views on Chelsea's improvement and managerial effectiveness.

“I think they'll definitely finish above you, Villa bastards, anyway.”
Show all 27 chapters

Debating Villa's Chances This Season

23:04 to 27:52

A heated debate on Aston Villa's ability to compete after losing key players.

“Yeah, but, you know, to Yuri Tiedemans, he was going to blow out anyways.”

Villa's Prospects and Upcoming Season Predictions

28:00 to 28:40

Discussion on Aston Villa's potential performance and predictions for the upcoming season.

“By the way, he did score bangers last season, Telemans.”

Bottom Three Predictions and Team Analysis

28:40 to 30:20

Analyzing predictions for relegation, focusing on teams like Ipswich and Sunderland.

“We'll get a few more callers on in a bit.”

Top Four Predictions and Team Strengths

30:20 to 32:10

Predicting the top four teams and discussing their strengths and signings.

“I think Coventry have got like four or five that could hack it already before they've even done it.”

Excitement Around the Top Four Race

32:10 to 33:10

A conversation about the competitiveness of the upcoming top four race in the Premier League.

“And I'd have Villa fifth, which will still get you in there probably.”

Challenges for Manchester United This Season

33:10 to 34:20

Discussing Manchester United's challenges and squad depth ahead of the new season.

“the race for top four could be really good this season.”

Analyzing Michael Carrick's Management at United

34:20 to 36:20

Evaluating Michael Carrick's management style and its effectiveness in previous games.

“still before it's done yeah they've got Telemans than Santos.”

Debating United's Title Challenge and Defensive Issues

36:20 to 41:40

A heated debate on whether Manchester United can challenge for the title, focusing on their defensive weaknesses.

“playing for the most, managing the most high-pressure job in English football by far, what have you seen to make you think they can challenge Arsenal, who last season, you finished, what?”

Final Remarks on Team Capabilities

41:40 to 42:01

Concluding thoughts on team capabilities and potential for the upcoming season.

Debate on Manchester United and Newcastle Defenses

42:01 to 45:00

A heated discussion comparing the defensive strengths of Manchester United and Newcastle, focusing on individual players and overall team performance.

“I've just said Newcastle have got a title challenge in defence.”

Midfield Dynamics and Team Depth

45:00 to 48:20

Exploration of the midfield issues faced by teams, particularly Manchester United, and how depth impacts performance across competitions.

“But let's go back to that Stamford Bridge game.”

Hot Takes for the New Season

48:20 to 51:25

Participants share bold predictions about team performances in the upcoming season, focusing on relegation and managerial changes.

“Oh, who's played a few games for France?”

Champions League Aspirations and Managerial Strategies

51:25 to 56:01

A caller discusses expectations for the Champions League, debating the suitability of managers for knockout football and potential outcomes for Arsenal and Manchester City.

“Right well I need a little break after that Man United guy I kind of liked him though Gave a bit good Gave a bit back Those people that are so deluded about their own team You know what I mean True, but...”

Discussing Team Performance and Managerial Changes

56:01 to 58:12

Analysis on the potential for teams to turn their fortunes around with new signings and managerial changes.

“What makes you think they can turn that around?”

Predictions for Chelsea's Premier League Season

58:13 to 59:52

Exploring Chelsea's potential to challenge for the league next season without European competition.

“So let's veer away from the Champions League for a second.”

Transitioning to Beer Battle Discussion

59:53 to 1:00:26

Lighthearted conversation about beers and tournaments, leading into a quiz segment.

“How can it be this common that people keep saying this?”

World Cup Quiz Challenge

1:00:27 to 1:04:20

Engaging quiz segment testing knowledge about the World Cup with humorous interactions.

“So this is a mixture of every single drink you've had this tournament.”
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Transcript

Automatic transcript. May contain errors.

0:00Bonjour, guten tag, hola. Hello Welcome back to the calling show You like that didn't you Yeah I like that a lot I thought I'd culturalise it Because obviously it's the World Cup calling show But not really today We are going to touch on the fact Spain won it Deservedly Good After you said England would win it How do you feel about that Yeah I'm an Englishman So In two years I'll say it again Yeah but if We'll be in a good spot in two years And we're at home In two weeks In two years Oh You reckon Yeah and we're at home You trust two more Yeah I do yeah I don't get in that again what makes you think we're going to win it considering we've still got to come up against France, Spain no guarantee Portugal we might scab our way through without playing in Europe no but in the final you're going to have to play probably Spain but at home I hope that we don't do what Southgate did against Italy what like Tuchel did against Argentina yeah exactly that sorry man but yeah I hope we'd have enough what do you think of the final right team won Argentina was shit they're not a real side they're just full of shin kickers so it's a bit and Paradez by the way Paradez is a joke yeah he's a dispenser he don't care because he's his career's finisher he's not asked apparently he didn't actually get sent off there was reports saying he got sent off but FIFA have come out and said he didn't get sent off no I didn't and Molina should have been sent off or not they're horrible they are horrible horrible rats he's like 5 '6 and he's squaring up on his toes yeah embarrassing what I hate about them is I get it right especially against the English I get it giving it loads blah blah blah but in the final you've just been absolutely outplayed and beaten by the better side you are the current reigning champions just like they've all won it like it's Spain's time just be a bit have a bit of class but they can't have any class can they they're horrible little rats and that little ginger fucker oh my god I'm so happy he was crying so happy he was crying they're horrible so I was absolutely over the moon they lost mainly for football mainly because obviously we hate Argentina and mainly just because of them little fucking I've never been that arsed about them before this though I've never liked them just because you talk to but this one yeah the way it's been with all the Falklands and all that crap I think yeah they're just they are weird yeah but they are winners they're three-time winners do you think that has any impact on Messi's legacy the way it ended no not at all you don't remember if it were him that were going around smacking people after then yeah I mean if he's trying to get Cucarelli sent off yeah which is embarrassing but I think I really think even though at 39 there's nothing like the way he's performed at this World Cup, it's impossible to hit his legacy.

2:33He obviously needs more help than he got. He's top of every stat going. He was arguably the best part of the tournament at 39, which is mental. But obviously in the final of the cup against just a far better side. I don't, yeah. Rodri. Yeah, I'm going to say it won't golden, what's it called? Golden ball. Did he deserve it? Had a Messi? Yeah. I think so, yeah. I'd have Jude in front of Messi genuinely from this tournament. Nah. I would, I seriously would. but I think Jude's top goal scorer ever from midfield as well. I think he's England's, isn't he? In one tournament? Yeah, probably. I think Jude carried...

3:06I know, obviously, Messi and everything that's built around him, but I think Jude would be better than Messi. But Roger deserved to win it. I know, but in the big moments... No, not in... Sorry, not in the big moments. In the big moment against each other, England and Argentina, Messi was the one who... Yeah, that's... Yeah, true. Do you know what I mean? I think you'd have to edge it, Messi, over Jude, but Jude's definitely up there. He had an unbelievable tournament. Roger deserved it. But Roger, oh my God. he's incredible man who said it last week about him being a top 3-6 ever yeah it was that City fan he's right he's right he's definitely we said it he's better than McElhaney the only one I can definitely put in is Busquets but yeah he's got it's weird because these players do tend to not get appreciated until it's just too obvious too glaringly obvious you know what I mean like it's so obvious that he is the cog and the linchpin of all these winning teams like Euros World Cup Champions League treble multiple Premier Leagues like he's a fucking joke yeah that trophy cabinet is an absolute joke and then Kibar she got young player I think that was fair as well he's 18 19 I think that is mental he's so good they're not scared though Spain are playing kids are they would they all yeah they bring them all through don't they there's another tool that's behind you De La Fuentes he had them all in the under 21s didn't he so like it's it's kind of what we were planning to do with Carsley and then we just didn't hire him.

4:29Anyway. I'm not being on that again. Right, before we get into the first caller, you're probably thinking, where are the beers? Where are the beers? We haven't got Stanley today. Producer Will's back and he said he's going to do like a special one at the end because obviously there is no games to look forward to, to guess. Yeah. He's obviously going to fuck something. Hello, you're live on the calling show. What do you want to talk about, my friend? Right. So, we're about to go into the new season of the Prem. Yeah, buddy. I'm pretty excited, I can't lie. I think, from my opinion, this might be the most exciting season of the Prem we have seen in a very, very long time.

5:07We say this every year, though. We say this every year. I know, I know. At the start of last season, we were like, oh my God, there's Liverpool, there's Man City, there's Arsenal going to be challenging, Chelsea going to be up there. Even Spurs could maybe get a go and challenge for the top four. And then it's just like... At least we had a couple stay up this year, though, which made a change. Yeah, that was... London went straight into Europe. I actually think the rest of the league, other than the top, the rest of the league was pretty exciting. Yeah, European race were good. Yeah. What makes you say that, mate?

5:35Well, I just think that the managers, like Man City, you look at Liverpool, you know, look at Spurs, you know, United is an example. It's all a fresh start. The only manager that's staying for the longevity is Arteta. In my opinion, I don't think he's going to retain the league. I think that he will not bottle it, but he'll come second or third. And I don't know. It's just a fresh start with new managers. Xavi Alonso never managing the Prem. We'll see how he looks because, you know, he's done well in Germany. Maresca didn't do so well for Chelsea, but, you know, might actually pick up something for Man City.

6:08Carrick as a United fan. I want him to do well, but we'll wait and see. And then De Zerbe, you know. Yeah, but are you saying it's going to be exciting with the games we're going to watch? Or are you just thinking it's exciting because everything's new and it's like, oh my God, we don't know what's going to happen. Because Marescu isn't an exactly exciting manager, is he? They don't make the title race, Marescu. I think I can't really see. Arsenal are clear favourites, aren't they? Do you want to talk about why you think they're not going to retain it? I just think that, well, one, you look at, for example, of how the world went right.

6:47I don't know how long Saliba's injured for. It's four to five months. Four to five months. I know they say they want to get John Stones as a replacement. I think they're in for Concer. Are they in for Concer? I've seen Chelsea after John. The rumours Concer for Arsenal. But yeah, they'll definitely get something. Yeah, well, with the money, because I know they haven't got Morgan Rodgers now. They're going to spend more on maybe the defence. I don't know. I haven't really seen any signings for Arsenal yet. I know we've still got a month, but I would have liked to have thought, if they wanted to bring anyone new in to make the squad better, they would have made some big signings by now.

7:24You get me? I get you, but they're already clear at the top. They are the best team in the league. And I haven't seen... Surely the emphasis is on the other teams to catch them. Well, yeah, that's the thing of, I guess, the mindset for me is why it's so exciting is because all these managers, apart from, I guess, like Mareska, have not managed the top top. so I'm excited to see if they're going to be in the top six at all there might be clubs like I don't know Fulham, Bournemouth even Sunderland like you said how they stayed up they could push up to top six, same with Villa I don't know I just think personally this is a season now where it's a new era of football just because all the managers that were doing so well for so long like Pep Guardiola has now gone we now have a chance to see if other clubs will push in or if the top six can remain the top six.

8:20It's difficult, isn't it? Do you think City will win it then? If you're saying Arsenal won't? I mean, on paper, for squad-wise, I think City could win it. For me, I still haven't really made the decision. I just don't see Arsenal doing it. If I had to pick between, it would be City or Liverpool. You know with that statement, though, that it's exciting, I think Arsenal will win it easily. Oh, I think Arsenal will win it again. And I think you could have all three go back down and that's just it. I don't disagree. I think, you really think Maresca can win the Premier League and you really think Iriola can make that step up and by the way, Liverpool are in a big transition this summer.

8:57Big. If I had to believe in the two, I'd pick Iriola over Maresca personally. Just from what I've seen with Bournemouth and... Yeah, but then, so you're taking Iriola and Liverpool over Arsenal and Arteta at the minute? On any... Tom, trust me, anything can happen. Anything can happen. We know anything can happen but we're trying to be reasonable. Arsenal won the league in the end, right? In the end, at a canter, didn't they? They had a few scares, as you always do, but they won the league pretty comfortably. And they were well in front of everybody else. Well, well clearly. They were well in front of everybody else.

9:31And obviously, I mean, a big reason, I think, why Arsenal did so well for what they did is the set pieces, right? The corners, how they tactically played. But we have been seeing teams... Towards the end of the season, that dried up a bit. But even then... They had to change it a bit because the likes of United and Liverpool were the followings of the set pieces as well. That's what they were trying to... I think a lot of teams at the top six were trying to match what Arsenal were doing. So I assume at the end they had to change it slightly to retain that position. Because we've seen in the past Arsenal having the lead and then dropping off in the last two months.

10:06So now you bollocks to the mask. Who's going to win the Premier League next year? It hurts me to say But I think Liverpool Will win it I think Liverpool Will win it I think you're absolutely Miles off it But cheers for phoning in mate Have a good one Thank you boys Thank you so much They've got some great players Don't they Liverpool But I don't see that A lot It's more than 10 isn't it They were behind United Yeah I don't think United Will be anywhere near I think it's the same two again Yeah same But Arsenal are not going to invest. Like, they were in for Rodgers, but I don't think they wanted to spend that money.

10:42It's like people think that, oh, you know, because the season's finished, that you can adapt to how they play better in second season. I am. But you play each other twice. After January, everybody's thinking, yeah, we'll adapt to them this time. And they still beat you anyway. Yeah, Liverpool finished fifth. They finished 25 points behind Arsenal. Oh, God. I just don't see where they get that. And don't, like... Arsenal might get more than that. Maybe Izak, with a full summer, can come back firing. Eketika's out. 25 points worth. Eketika's out. Vert I just don't think he's it Canate's gone Alisson's getting towards the end now Van Dijk's getting towards the end Canate's left Robertson's gone Robertson's gone It's a lot of change McAllister didn't look himself last year It's a new manager who's never managed at this level Look like anything I hope he's right I don't No I hope he's right about it being exciting Oh yeah definitely but I cannot see a world when Liverpool win the Premier League next season I think it's Arsenal's again I think it's Arsenal's City but I don't trust Moresca to win the Premier League You can't write them players off though, can you?

11:39You can't, but I can write him off. Well, yeah, that's fair. Right, let's get another caller on. Let's see what he wants to talk about this time. Hello, Alex. You're live on The Calling Show with Joey Gallifala. What do you want to talk about, boy? I want to talk about that Chelsea will finish second or higher. I don't mind it. I don't mind it. I mind higher. This is my rogue shout for the season. I think Chelsea... If he's a third, I'd have that. It depends. So, Alex, I'll let you tell me why you think, and I'm hoping you're going to say what I'm saying. Well, hopefully we agree, but for multiple reasons, such as, first of all, no Europe.

12:24Yeah, agreed. So fully concentrated on Prem, FA Cup maybe, Carabao Cup, but I think fully focused on Prem. Proven manager Proven manager What I mean by With Bayer Leverkusen Beat the best Sadly at Real Madrid He didn't do it as well As people expected But I just think He wasn't doing that badly At Madrid That's a bit like It was a bit of a player thing Wasn't it Player revolt that made him go He was actually I'm pretty sure they were Top of the league Or second They were doing fine Under him But yeah They were second But to be honest The level just wasn't that great but I just as you said I think it's players wise I think the coach has got it then well then we just I think the strongest points we go into signings well Morgan Rodgers we all know how good he is and sadly we couldn't see it with England as much but with Aston Villa we know how good he is Proven Prem Man United did that last year and it worked Xhaka and Stones and then types and all they'll be good pickups Xhaka's not going to leave he said I think Stones would be a great signing but I'm not sure about Stones will go to Chelsea because I agree I don't think he will either I think he'll go to Everton or Juventus I agree it'll be good if he needs it with then Palestra I mean I watch this area I think he's so good for where the new one where does he play he plays right back or right wing back with Xabi Alonso probably who plays 3-4 who have you signed him from I haven't even heard of this signed for Cagliari and then there's that what's him from Spartan is it Quenda or something yeah they signed him last season and agreed on a deal and I don't think he'll start but again I just think he's a prospect you should have Esteval back as well Esteval João Pedro I think will be fuming from that World Cup not being called I mean I think all of those players are pumped especially Palmer he's had good rest and his thing hopefully he's recovered from that injury and I think will he play with Morgan Rodgers probably and then yeah he'll go surely it'll be won't it be Rodgers off the left Estav off the right Palmer in the 10 wouldn't it and then the double pivot of Caicedo and someone they'll probably sign if Enzo's leaving or Enzo if he stays but I don't see anyone buying Enzo's I think he'll fit right well at Chelsea oh I hope he stays and gets dogs abuse week in week out to be honest the only issue I say second the only issue I say second instead of first is that I think injuries defenders wise will stop them Yeah, well, I do echo a lot of what you've said.

15:03My theory on Chelsea was, and look, it's just a theory, guys. They brought Xabi Alonso in but gave him the manager title, not head coach. So it seems like, in my opinion, they're kind of admitting where they've gone wrong. And then with the Xhaka rumours, I thought, oh, they're actually not just buying kids anymore. That doesn't look like it's happening. but still if Chelsea can and it's a big can or if if they can sort that back four out because Cucurella's a massive loss a massive loss let's not underestimate that I'm never convinced on the centre-backs either if they can sort that back four out with no Europe Liverpool are in transition City no matter how good their players are under Maresca with losing Pep that's a big transition Tottenham obviously who fucking knows I think United are going to be so and so with Carrick and all their extra games in Europe because I don't think he's good enough to manage at this level with all that.

15:57It's Arsenal and City. And with Arsenal, there's always the chance. They've reached a mountaintop now. And it's so hard to retain the title. They could flounder. And Chelsea kind of have a free hit this season. I think Alonso is a really good coach, good manager, could get them rolling. Stranger things have happened. Morgan Rodgers is a big signing. You were looking at the points, though, from Liverpool to Arsenal. Chelsea finished like 10th. Oh, yeah. There's a lot of change still. Yeah, you're right. It's a bit of a crazy shout, but I like it. I'm hearing it, brother. I've got third. Is it crazy?

16:33Because all these points, as we said, it just seems right. I think a big one is if Palmer's fit and fiery next season, you've got a chance. Go on. Nail your bollocks to the mast, as I like to say. Who do you think wins the title? and if it is Chelsea, who do you think comes second? No, I don't think Chelsea are going to win it, but sadly, probably Arsenal. Okay, mate, well, thanks for your call. Hope you have a brilliant summer and I'll maybe see you soon. I don't mind it. I like that. It's a bit rogue, but Chelsea are the type of club to do, like, to just go and, like, they've already spent how much on Rodgers.

17:19They're probably going to spend 100 million on two defenders. too many points to pick up I do agree it is a big turnaround but they have done it before where do you think Moises is going to play I think he'll play off the left think I don't know I'm really interested to see or maybe maybe like a 3-5-2 and he's in the two up front with Pedro because he can play that kind of second strike I don't know I suppose Palmer and Rodgers not Palmer yeah Palmer and Rodgers just behind Jao Pedro and they play something different well then Estabal he's going to play wing back as well I think he can he has played for off the bat though he's not just a wing-back manager just see what it churns out I think Chelsea are the most interesting team next season because of Alonso yeah I agree with that and because of again you don't know is Palmer going to be back who knows is Esteval going to come back to his best was it Achilles he did I can't remember now it wasn't a nice injury I'm sure the injury he got is similar to what Neymar did yeah hamstring it's a hamstring so you can all they're always It was a bit tricky then.

18:21Yeah, it was a bad tear. Has he lost half a yard? Who knows? We'll find out soon in the new Premier League season. Right, let's get another caller on. Piers, you're live on the calling show. Talk to me.

18:38Hello, can you hear me? Yeah, I can hear you. It sounds like you're eating. Spin it out. Wait, do you want to know the opinions? Yeah, yeah, that's what you're here for, son. I think Chelsea they ain't improving this season they're not improving I think Man United fall off completely because they ain't playing 40 games this season they're playing about 50 and they're washed Tottenham they'll just get 10th Villa top 3 because who knows he's goaded and the title's just going to go Man City or Arsenal because they're boring right I agree with that yeah I think the title one yeah that's pretty boring I think we all agree it's Arsenal or City but let's talk about Chelsea because we've just had a caller on who thinks Chelsea could challenge I agree with that as well I could see I could see Chelsea either challenging or finishing 10th but you don't see Chelsea improving with Alonso and with the signings they're probably going to make and have already made I'm not big on Alonso why?

19:34I just think at Real Madrid he had all these players and you can say Real Madrid's an arrogant club but they've got players that have just shown up in the World Cup they've got Cucuré who's sick now but when he was at Real Madrid he just didn't mould them and Chelsea they're the exact same they have loads of big players they've just signed Morgan Rodgers 117 from Villa get in yeah but he's not Rodgers isn't like an Mbappe with the arrogance and ego he's a like I think it is it is a really tough job at Madrid to handle all those egos a certain type of guy you don't really have that at Chelsea as much obviously they're young players and I do think they need a leader such as such as like Alonso to try and get them I don't know whip them into shape but But I don't know.

20:16I think Chelsea could do all right. I think they'll definitely finish above you, Villa bastards, anyway. No, but the thing is, though, Tom, they have Cole Palmer, who's their star player, who hasn't performed in two seasons. He's had injuries, but he's not performing. Gio Pedro's good, but I don't think he's a 30-goal-a-season striker. They hardly beat the little teams. They always struggle. And every year, since what? Pochettino. No. Wait, what team does have a 30-goal-a-season striker? Harland. Who got 27 last year and then 21. I think Isaac kicks on. Very obvious. Isaac's never scored 30 goals.

20:56Harland's only done it once. He played for Newcastle. Newcastle are washed up. What are we on about here? All right. Harland hasn't scored 30 goals in the last two years. It's Erling Harland, bro. He's going to kick on. Yeah, but you just said... Dal Pedro's not a 30-goal-a-season striker. Joao Pedro probably is in the Premier. He probably doesn't get 25 goals. I just don't think Chelsea have the squad to continuously go. They were in Europe this season. Yeah, but Joao Pedro scored 15 goals that season with no penalties. That's not a bad return for someone who... It's not a bad return, but it's not like he's going to be this shining light.

21:33Morgan Rodgers and Cole Palmer in that team. You're going to play Rodgers on the left, I'm guessing. But Rodgers, he's going to be an out and out on the left. and watching him reveal it. When he's out and out on the left, he's not the best. He's best when he goes inside. I don't think he's going to be bang on the left, though, because he plays with wing-backs, doesn't he, Alonso? So I could see Rodgers being in, like, maybe just off the striker and then maybe Parma, either to the... I don't know. I'm interested to see how they set that up. There's too many teams in front, you know, from last season that are in Europe as well that Chelsea's surely going to finish in front of, like, Sunderland.

22:03That's what I mean. I think Chelsea have got no Europe either, which is a big one. I think what is really important to look at is Brentford, Brighton, Sunderland, Bournemouth. Chelsea are obviously going to finish above them this season, aren't they? They just are. Then you've got Liverpool. Who knows? They'll obviously finish above Villa. I reckon they'll finish above Man United. So they've only got City and Arsenal. They're guaranteed third. They're locking in for third with no other margin for error. No, no, no. I think all these teams above them who finish above them have got Europe to deal with.

22:37Chelsea don't have Europe. They've already made a good signing. By the way, you've just lost your two best players. Yeah, what's it called? Morgan Rodgers, easily replaceable, what we say it is. Villafane's called him number 27 for half the season because he wasn't performing. Right, but he's still one of your best players who you've lost. And your actual best player last season has gone as well. What? I said your actual best player last season has gone as well. Yeah, but, you know, to Yuri Tiedemans, he was going to blow out anyways. he's fat isn't he so like we've got to think about this I'm telling you this is analysis this is a so what makes you think you're going to finish third after losing your two best players well I don't think there are two best players number one Kamara's better than both of them Kamara's a good player which is more vital I think what Unai Emery has is when he picks a team and he picks players Villa can deal with European competition like we have not if you keep losing your players what's it called we've lost we've lost players every season because of PSR I don't know what is it I think Jao Gomez is a very good signing I think Villa will still finish like fifth or sixth but Jao Gomez isn't going to replace what Tielemans gave you offensively he's not Jao Gomez he's a DM that's what I mean which you've already got two of them really I think he's better than Onana Jao Gomez I think him and Kamala no he's only better at Onana at fitness Jao Gomez he's a better player than Onana no he is mate Onana is class I watch him every week when he's not injured he's very good I think come January you can message me and go you were right mate Ja Gomes is better than Anana when he's starting every week for Villa well once again Anana won't be playing until January because he's got an ACL so I'm right well you're not you're not right so what are we doing you don't think Ja Gomes is going to start every week for Villa until Anana gets back he's going to start every week that's what I've said I didn't know Anana was out I'm whining you off but I'm saying Ja Gomes Even when Anana's back, we'll start every week with Kamara.

24:39I don't back that. I don't back that at all. But then you're fucked then. But what about the Rodgers? Well, not really. You're definitely not finishing third with that fucking lanky cunt in midfield. Who's going to replace Rodgers for you? And that many Gormans and everything. What people are saying, well, we've got 85 mil to spend now, which is a lot for Villa. So I reckon we've got two players with 117. Where are you getting two really good players for that money in this market nowadays? Two really good players. What's it called? Go on, man. I don't know where we're going to go. We're looking at Leal.

25:05You've signed that the Swiss lad, haven't you? Yeah, Manzambi. That's what I'm saying. He had an incredible breakout World Cup. He didn't start a lot, but he had goals and assists. I know, but history's against you there, mate. How many players have had a breakout World Cup and then they're shocking? I know, I was thinking about what you call James Rodriguez. Yeah, I think I'd be wary of that. But he's come out, he had a good season in the Bundesliga. He's not just like... like Timo Werner did. Good signing. Timo Werner didn't get Europa League final. Never. Well, no, he won the Champions League.

25:38With who? Chelsea. Yeah, after he broke out with Chelsea. After he broke, not with the team he was with before. He didn't break out with Chelsea. No, you said that team have only won the Champions League. Yeah, but Bundesliga signings never do well in the Premier League, mate. So, as you said, he's shit, he's washed. I get Bundesliga isn't the league you want to be buying from, but it's not like the worst league in the world. So who's replacing Tielemans with all that offensive prowess he gave Villa last season? Who's becoming the passing man? Yeah, and in the final third, Tielemans was kind of like the one who unlocked the door, wasn't he?

26:14Tielemans was never edge of the box. How many goals did he score on the edge of the box? For Villa? Hardly any. Tielemans was often, by the edge of the box, crossing in or finding passes through, wasn't he? Tom, if you're saying that, you ain't been watching Villa, because what Tielemans did most of the time... I love that one. Telemans played in the D. I love that one. Say that again. I missed that because Kyle was laughing. Telemans played in the centre serve. Telemans were playing in the centre serve. We'd turn the ball and pass it over the top. If he was edge of box, he wasn't scoring for it.

26:44Telemans, in your team, in your team was like the offensive side of your pivot, wasn't he? So it's not, I'm not, I'm not saying he wasn't playing in the, obviously that pivot in midfield, but Telemans was often in the final third, either playing the pre-assist, or you ever want to call it, or getting involved with goals. I know he scored penalties and stuff, but still. He was creating chances, yeah, but he wasn't like this. So what I just said, so who's going to replace him? You said, what's it called, edge of box striker? He's not attacking, but he's the creator, but he's not attacking third.

27:13Attacking third, I'm thinking of the 10, the wingers and the striker. No, I'm not saying that. I said he was the creator in the final third as your midfielder, so who's going to replace that? We've got 85 mil, Tom. We're going to buy someone. Who? I don't know. I'm not the scouting department, am I?

27:34Right, well, I think you're going to absolutely fall off a cliff and I can't wait to see the tears. So thanks for calling in, buddy. We'll see you soon. Up the bit of fuck baggies.

27:48That was mental about Teelamut. He never lost his mind, dude. I didn't understand what he was getting at. I was like, yeah, he was obviously the creator. I thought he'd pass it. He's like, he wasn't in the box scoring goals. I agree with you. I thought he said. By the way, he did score bangers last season, Telemans. Yeah, he did. Am I going mad? Not loads and loads, Bridget. Not loads, but... I agree with what he's saying, though. I think, I don't know about Villa top three, but Villa, like, for a Champions League qualifier again... Nah. For a fifth, I think they're being that. It can always juggle it.

28:16It depends what they get in instead of Rodgers. That's a big loss for them. Yeah, of course it is. But Gomez is a good signing. And also... They've got a lot of depth in the middle. They can juggle a lot. That XG, he's knocking at the door. He's always knocking and he always comes. Oh, does he? Where's that? Yeah, I think Villa... No, I think Villa will finish top six, maybe. Yeah, go on then. I agree. Six or seven. We'll get a few more callers on in a bit. Good hearing from Premier League opinions. So let's get yours. I want your top four. Put you on the spot. Top four, bottom three, top scorer.

28:51Tommy, you go first. I unfortunately think... The thing is, I think Coventry could stay up. but I don't know who's going to go down. I can't find the replacement. Like, do you know what's not... Sunderland isn't a bad shout to go down. And I don't want it to happen because I really like Sunderland. But I am really struggling to not see the three that come up good back down. I'll tell you what, Ipswich are nailed on. Ipswich are a given. Yeah, with Gary O 'Neal. I actually think under McKenna they could have had a chance. Yeah, same. I've got... I have little to know. It's another season. And they're paying 20 mil plus add-ons for Fatou from Leicester.

29:32He's good, though. No, he's not. He's not that good. He was shit. I'm not being funny. They were all shit. He was okay for a side that got relegated from the championship and he's playing 20 plus add-ons. Mental money. I think you're right off last season, though, for all the Leicester players, because they were just embarrassing, weren't they? Yeah, exactly. There's a reason. When they won the league, Fatou was good, man. I don't think he's kicked on since that, though. Maybe, yeah. He does remind me a bit of like a fucking... What's his face? Hutchinson yeah but I think Hutchinson's actually better he did well at the back end of last season so I'm going to go not less to Ipswich even bottom and Sunderland I just think they have got too many good players now like if Xhaka stays as well but with the extra games in Europe they could fall off do them off I'll go are you just going for all three no I don't want to say off yeah but if you don't want just say what you think I think I think Coventry are going to stay off so I'm going to go for I'll go for Hull, Ipswich and Sunderland I don't agree with that but I really don't want that to happen I think there's a chance Hull could stop up as well I won't say it as of yeah but they said they've got 250 million quid their owner's a nut job yeah but who wants to live in Hull somebody will, Jack Butland apparently they're only signing up so far I think he's back actually can I change my prediction Jack Butland Why didn't you tell me that before?

30:57Back in Europe If you put a gun to my head I'd say the three that come up But I just think What Lampard's got going at Coventry I could see them staying up Yeah same I'd go for now But I'd go Ipswich Hall And I think either Palace or Fulham Palace? They've got Europe as well New manager Fulham's not One of them two Fulham's got too many good players though Fulham's not a bad shout I think Palace though I think both of them I think Coventry finish in front of both Palace Palace got Europa League you know their drop off though their drop off startling when they were getting a bit further in they had to put a bit more attention on Conference League mate they've got every game at Europa League even groups is going to be a lot harder than most at Conference League that people start soon Palace are track players they spent a load of money on shit though in Jan that much money on like Brendan Johnson yeah but Brendan Johnson is better than any Stan Larson yeah but they're better than anything in the the three coming up we've got Radone is a better player than Brendan Johnson is 100 % Do you reckon?

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31:55I think Coventry have got like four or five that could hack it already before they've even done it. And I like Lamps as well. Yeah, I think they'll attract players, Coventry. But yeah, okay, so that's our bottom three. I think my top four, I'm going to go Arsenal, City, Chelsea, Liverpool. I agree with that. And I'd have Villa fifth, which will still get you in there probably. Actually, Spurs, you know. Spurs are cooking. Not that far. They're signing so far. Spurs are cooking. Yes. They've made some good signings. That's about 17. So let's go for their signings, Will. Who's it confirmed they've signed?

32:29Well, they've got Fernandes, didn't they? That's a great signing. Tonali, Fernandes. That's sorted the midfield. Aren't they in for Kruppi Jr.? Yeah. Have they signed a winger yet? They've got Sanessi and Van Hecke. Sanessi Van Hecke. And who? Robertson as well. Bloody hell. Yeah, they're cooking, man. I think Swell's finishing the top six, but I think maybe top four's a bit too much to ask. And then top scorer, I'm going to go with Haaland. Yeah, because Arsenal have got to have the still that can do it. Yeah, I'd agree with that as well, to be honest. I agree with you. Maybe he's right, maybe he's exciting this season.

33:04Yeah, but we've just agreed on everything. No, I mean, when you think about it, other than Arsenal, the race for top four could be really good this season. That doesn't excite me. Villa, Spurs, Liverpool, Man United, Chelsea, all going at it. Does Champions League qualification excite you? It did last season. It dumped me. I'm excited by if there's like real jeopardy online if someone can stop up or win something yeah no and I think they look wrapped up apart from I get what you mean but nowadays finishing in the Champions League such a fucking big reward to them they play like it's a Champions League final don't they towards the end of the season yeah actually I think the European qualification last season was some of the best bits of the league for like a ball for somebody I think it were yeah and I mean how about Man United well we're both on the same boat though aren't we they've got Europe to deal with they've not got a squad anywhere not even that it's not even just Europe it's the two cup competitions which he didn't have yeah true that's a good point are you convinced on Carrick as well still at this level no it feels like Oli 2.0 who have they brought in as well so far Santos I don't even know oh yeah Andre Sant that's a good sign they're obviously going to chuck loads of brass at it still before it's done yeah they've got Telemans than Santos.

34:23They've sorted the midfield, but is that enough? Are there better signings for half the price than Fernandes and Tonali, I suppose? Probably. I don't even care about the price. They're just not better signings. How much was Tonali? 100 million. Like, isn't... They're the signings United should have made. Or even not. Like, money. Come on. It means nothing, does it? It just means nothing. Let's do other ones. I get so fucking bored talking about prices now. So, Tonali and Fernandes are better than them? Yeah, they are. The killiments are very good. We're ageing every... I think Tenali's best at all You'd rather have Fernandes and Tenali than Andre Santos and Tielemans Yeah of course you would 100 % And that's for Saturday finish 17th So it's ridiculous to say And no Europe for Tottenham as well is another point Yeah Mate Spurs could cook I don't know about I think they'll get Europe but it might be like a Brighton Europe like a conference league or something Right let's get a Man United phone on see what he's got to say Alex you're live on The Calling Show what do you want to talk about?

35:19Oh hello Mr Garrett Hello there, Lou. Oh.

35:27Go on, mate. Spit it out. I think that Man United will, well, definitely can challenge for the league if they sign a left-back and another midfielder. You are absolutely miles off it. In what world are Man United going to challenge for the league? Right, so Michael Carrick, did a good job when he come in right but all he did was the blaringly obvious he played Fernandes in his right position and just went back to a back four in certain games such as Leeds at home Newcastle away when Newcastle had 10 men he showed real real flaws in his management and tactics I think he didn't have to deal with any competitions other than the Premier League what makes you think he can manage this team with a left back just with an extra left back in a midfielder, in all four competitions, playing for the most, managing the most high-pressure job in English football by far, what have you seen to make you think they can challenge Arsenal, who last season, you finished, what?

36:34Let's have a look here. You finished... Yeah, no, no, no. Let me get... No, no, it wasn't... 14. 14, yeah. So you finished 14 points off the champions last season. What makes you think you can turn that around? So, for starters, to say that he can't manage the next game is unfair because he's not been given a chance to. True. So, for example, with Newcastle, it's fair to say that Eddie Howe can't because he's been given that chance twice now and hasn't. Yeah, true. Which based on your squad depth as well, which Man United haven't got to deal with off. That's what I'm saying. We're bringing in players now.

37:10and that's what I mean if we get I think if we get one more midfielder we've got then four midfielders there to compete for two four defensive minded midfielders or like deep ones to compete for two positions and we definitely need a left back because Luke Shaw's hamstrings aren't going to handle 60 games a season I'm terrified so what's your back four then obviously let's say you get a new left back who's the other three I think best two are probably Maguire and Martinez. That just isn't a Premier League winning defence, is it, mate? And I think, but in fairness, it's, you say that, but Maguire and Martinez are two really good centre-halves.

37:53No, they're not. They're good. They're not really good, mate. Did you watch Martinez in the World Cup? They were giving up chances for fun. Where's the pace?

38:08probably probably one of the younger ones heaven or Yoro yeah but you've just said Maguire and Martin at the start where's the face I think I think they'll rotate it game by game because they've got you know what they've got a lot of centre half yeah but they're not good I think I actually think right from what I've seen heaven's your best centre half yeah there's depth and then there's them being crap as well I don't agree I think heaven could be but not yet but even so there's a debate where Aidan Evan, a 19-year-old, is your best centre-half and you're talking about winning the league? No, no, no.

38:40Whereas the current champions have arguably the best two centre-halves in the world. Admittedly, one's injured now. I'm not saying we're going to win the league. I said, I think we might compete. No, but you're not saying anything there. You're just going, I think we may be able to compete. No, no. Get off the fence. Give me your opinion. I said, I think we'll finish. I think second or third right how far behind how many pointers behind it you finished third last season yeah was that a challenge I think closer how much closer

39:20but are you just are you just saying this because you're a Man United fan because when you actually think of it Man United finished third last season kind of by default Liverpool were miles off it Chelsea were miles off it Spurs miles off it. All three of those teams are probably going to be far better this season. Spurs have already made some unbelievable signings and are probably ahead of you in the signings already. There's an argument Man United do with Chelsea. Yeah, they don't have Europe to deal with. Chelsea don't have Europe to deal with. No extra games. You don't have the squad to deal with four competitions.

39:48It's all right saying that Spurs are ahead of us but have you seen Spurs this front line? Have you seen who they've signed? It's in your defence. Our defence really isn't that bad. How many have you conceded last year? It's pretty bad. You conceded 50 goals last season. Almost double Arsenal. You conceded more goals than Sunderland. Oh, man. Same amount as Everton. One less than Forest. So, yes. So, yeah, your defence isn't good. But you're going about Arsenal. Who would you say has got, for example, a better front line, United or Arsenal? probably probably probably Man United player for player yeah so it's not just a defence you know I've also got so is the defence the only thing you're missing the point you're proving my point here you don't understand you're proving my point Arsenal don't have the best front line but they have the best defence and they're champions so it's more about your defence than having a good attacking line because you can't just outscore teams all the time also I think we were to defensively under Carrick in the second half.

41:03I mean, Ruben Amrim... Fully fit players basically constantly because you've got no other competitions though. I just think you're so far behind the top two. You conceded 15 more goals than City and they scored eight more goals. Then you're like, we're talking a vast amount here for you to magically catch up with a left back. Depends on who that left back is it If it's the one that Hopefully we get then Who? Preferably Lewis Hall Yeah but Lewis Hall Lewis Hall was part of one of the worst defences In the Premier League last season So why is he suddenly going to They conceded even more than you So why didn't he stop So why didn't he stop all them goals Shipping in for Newcastle Oh come on He's playing with absolute dunces Yeah and he will be at United as well No that's harsh Wait you're telling me Wait, obviously they had a lot of rotation last season.

42:00Newcastle's back four when fully fit. He's as good as United. I don't agree with that. Of course it is. Not far off. Bottman would be your best centre-half. Chow would be your best centre-half. I've just said Newcastle have got a title challenge in defence. Tom, I remember I watched the pitch side video of you doing the Newcastle-Man-United combined 11 and you laughed at Lewis for putting Bottman in. I got you there. Alright then Fuck no It was probably two years ago How about Chow? It was the recent one Was it because he was injured? I can't remember that No it was because you were just saying He was crap Wait what did he say?

42:39You were just saying he was crap Do you think Malik Chow Starts with Man United? I think Chow's alright So Chow's alright But Martinez and Maguire are class Hang on Also Martinez was pretty good for Argentina in the World Cup. It worked quite good, but I still think it's way too rough. No, he wasn't defensively. No, he wasn't quite good. They conceded so many goals. Are you taking the piss here? No, I think you're okay, mate. If it weren't for the lads at the other end of the field, mainly Messi, they'd have gone out to Cape Verde and Egypt. Hang on. Who else scored in that Cape Verde game? Exactly.

43:21We're not on about him scoring goals. We're not about him defending. you just telling me you've got the best attackers in the league so why do you need him to score goals I think I cannot believe you just tried well he scored what's that got to do with him defending you nutter no I think I think also what will happen I know you I've heard you say you don't write him that highly I think hopefully when he's back fit I think De Ligt will also be fuck me people have been saying that for 10 years well I'll tell you what if he can stay Hey, Fit, there's a reason the team ship him off. He's average. He's a fucking boat.

44:00I thought the same about him the first season. When he was playing, when he was playing, before he got his back injury, he was one of our best players. That ain't saying much, though, mate. That shows how far you've fallen, though, doesn't it, really? I just, I think, so you don't, you think Carrick can deal with the four competitions? I don't see why he can't. I've explained to you why, though. I've explained to you why. Because in big moments in games, we've seen frailties in his management. I mean, we saw it at Middlesbrough. Hang on. So, but the only... How many games did he lose under him in the league?

44:40Not many. No, no, yeah. You know of a game. But it's not sustainable. And he had a whole week to prepare for each of these games. He's not going to have that this season. He had a whole week to prepare for each game. and still in games, I was questioning what the fuck he was doing. Like, you went to Stamford Bridge and if Chelsea could have finished their dinner, they'd have beat you quite comfortably. Yeah, but hang on. But let's go back to that Stamford Bridge game. Did you see our back four? Yeah, Heaven started. Who's your best player? Heaven and Mizrahi was our centre-half partnership. Yeah, no.

45:10All of our centre-halves were injured. So, again, proving that you don't have the depth to deal with all these competitions. So how are you going to deal with four competitions? But that was only... No, but that was because of a massive injury and suspension crisis because of our centre-up. Which happens every year for teams. That's why teams have been... You honestly think your depth's good enough, Carrick's good enough at this level to finish in the top three again? Carrick is a wait and see. You've got to give him a chance. Why? Why do you have to give him a chance? And how many of them win leagues?

45:42By the way, just to clear up, I was initially one of the people who said they shouldn't have given Carrick the job but they've given him it now so you you may as well give him a chance. No, I agree. As a Man United fan, you may as well back him. I completely... I'm with you, mate. I'd do the same. It's a bit like Tuchel with me. I didn't want him, but he's here now, so I might as well back him. But you can't fault us for looking at it from an outsider's point of view, going, there is not a world where Manchester United win a Premier League title with Michael Carrick at the helm. It just won't happen.

46:14I always think the signs that we... We'll still make more signs, but the signs we have made so far have been pretty good. Yeah, I think Telemann's a good signing I think Andre Santos is a good signing but they're good signings they're not making me go wow United are back I think Telemann's a great signing is it? a 29 year old who's struggled with fitness a league winning signing but that's part of depth though you know what his problem you know what his biggest problem actually last season when you say when you were going on about a defence I don't even think it was necessarily not the defence fault keeping the goals I just think because we were so open in midfield so the back four were so exposed but get ready because that's a carrot ball I don't disagree with you there, but I think that is how Carrick plays a lot of the time.

46:55No, but it was often because, I remember you mentioned the Leeds game. That was because we started at Garte. I know, but even so, that isn't an excuse. When you've got a whole week to prepare for the game, this is what I'm saying, and Leeds did an absolute number on you. Leeds at home. That surely fills you with a bit of dread. I think part of the reason our big thing last season was we had no midfield depth we had none but we've brought it in now it was Casemiro and Mainu were pretty much having to play well, under Carrick were having to play every game because Ruben Amrim didn't like Kobe Mainu just had something against him Look, I agree I think you're definitely in a better position in midfield and I think you've got a good attack that defence, mate like Tielemans isn't like the best protector in the world but that's what I mean I think they'll buy another holding midfielder so who do you think is going to start?

47:53Tielemans and the new one and Andre Santos is back up I think and Mainu is back up and Mainu is back up it could even be Mainu I think it could be game by game I could see games where United are having more of the ball against lower teams where Tielemans and Mainu start together yeah but then even so then you've got the same problem you'd think that against Leeds but then these lower teams still offer threats on the break and it's like Tielemans and Mainu fuck me imagine watching them pair try and run back it seems that you're on the break Jesus carting buses I'm sorry towing a caravan back to the fucking Stretford end don't they Jesus I think he liked that one I don't know I don't know who that I've heard us linked to that Manu Kone from Roma Oh, is that the one who started for France?

48:43Oh, who's played a few games for France? Yeah. Yeah, I like him, actually. He's decent, to be fair. I'm going to be honest. When I was watching France, I was more paying attention to the... Yeah. I stood in a sack of pack-up breaks, so I don't really know much about him. No, he's deep. I've never even heard of him before the World Cup, but he looked decent when he played. He is awesome. All I'd say is, I just think, like you're saying about, oh, we had a lot of injuries and suspensions. Do you not think that's going to be even worse this year with the four competitions? Because obviously you were out of everything so early last year.

49:17I think you need... But obviously your opening statement was a left-back in the midfield gets you to the challenge. You're going to need way more than that, mate. When Liverpool finished below you, it was going to be better. Chelsea. Where, though? But again, Chelsea still need loads. So do you. Chelsea's definitely... What more do we need? Centre-halves. Oh, God. Centre-halves. I think you need at least another centre-half, at least. I think you need another striker. Full-backs are shit. Yeah, I'd look at full-backs. You need at least four players. I think four players, absolute bare minimum, to even think about top four again.

49:54To answer the striker one, I think we're probably going to reintegrate Rashford, who'll play as a rotation either back-up striker or left-wing. Well, then you are fucked. Weren't you the one going on about how you think Rashford's a great impact player off the bench and can win the game. Yeah, for England and Barcelona and he's done at Man United, mate. He's absolutely done at Man United and he's proven it. And also, Rashford only plays well when there's a tournament coming up and there's nothing next year so he'll just fucking, he'll just take the money and have a laugh. Rashford's not the answer to Man United.

50:29You need to, you might as well get Martial back. Like, you've got to get, you've got to just, sometimes it's okay to let go in life. That is not the one, surely. Surely you're not holding your hat on Rashford being the backup for Man United now. I'd rather him than Joshua Zerpsey. Not in the nine, I wouldn't. Zerpsey can do a job off the bench holding it up. He can. More so than Rashford. I think I've given Zerpsey too many chances. I just think he's a pony. Right, so go on then. Where are you finishing? Nail it. Nail it to the mast. There's a six for something there. I'll go I'm going to go third again Alright well thanks for calling in mate He's gone from saying No problem I think Man United can challenge the title We're going to finish third I quite enjoyed that one It's quite nice to talk about the club football again actually I like it Yeah I think the World Cup's kind of Sucks it out of me I think Right well I need a little break after that Man United guy I kind of liked him though Gave a bit good Gave a bit back Those people that are so deluded about their own team You know what I mean True, but...

51:35Says you. Exactly. Right, hot takes for the new season. Do you have one, Callum? Yeah, I said it earlier. I think either Crystal Palace or Fulham go down. I'm so, so convinced, especially Palace at some point, it'll bite them. I do think that is a hot take, so I'll give you that. I think Fulham are more likely to go than Palace. Yeah, there's a lot with them, especially new manager. No Wilson, lost him in air. He was underrated. lost. He was playing constantly for him. Who is it? Arbelow is in any? To be honest, I don't even know that's what I'm saying. Arbelow is the new manager? Is Arbelow the new manager for Fulham?

52:12Yeah, he is. But Silva got loads of stick for being a bit boring and they can never really kick off. He's done well with what he's got there. Yeah, I do agree. You know what they remind me though? West Ham from this season. Just kind of. They've got a lot of them type of players, a lot of Vambisaka type players that just because they're a decent name from a different club, it's not at that level. Yeah. The Wilson one's huge as well. My hot take is...

52:39I think Carrick's gone by Christmas. I can see that, you know. I really can. You know, if they go out in groups, is that enough just to get rid of them straight away in Champions League? So much money involved in that. If I'm Man United, yeah. I think it depends on the manner, doesn't it? It's not groups, it's the table. Oh, yeah. If they finish it bottom eight for that thing. If they can't qualify out of that. Even if they go out first knockout, that's not good enough, that. I agree. And you'd think that the league position will already be crap enough anyway to warrant getting rid. Right, let's talk some Champions League.

53:12We've got a caller who wants to talk. The Champions!

53:18Hello, Jimmy boy. You're live on The Calling Show. Please do not swear. No, you can swear if you want one. You want to talk about the Champions League? Talk to me. I do indeed. Talk to me I believe That Arsenal And Man City Will be in the final Oh The thing with that is They might end up Playing each other Before Are you saying It's just because You think They're a level Ahead of everyone else No I just believe That Now that they've got Enzo Maresco I believe that He's more suited For Knockout football Oh god Why Well just look at The club world cup Like the way he dismantled PSG. Are we really checking the Club World Cup?

54:01Come on. What about every other competition he was in? What other competitions was he in? Both domestic. To be fair, he did win the Conference League. Conference League? There you go. Come on. I think that's... If you're holding your hat on Maresca, what about PSG? What about Real Madrid with Mourinho? Bayern. Bayern Munich. Barcelona. The rest of the players in the league. But I just believe that. I do think he's suited for it. Because PSG, Luis Enrique said that's the hardest team he's ever faced. Who was the hardest team he faced? Chelsea. I mean, yeah, but I don't believe that. You believe that?

54:43I believe that. That's the only team he's lost to in a knockout of football. That's probably why he said it. He's trying to make himself look better, isn't he? They're not the best team. What about the team he beat? Who did he beat in the final in Barcelona? now was it Juventus when he won it? With Pogba and all that they're obviously better than that Chelsea side Well at PSG then So what makes I'll tell you what I'm getting sick of all this like oh he's a knockout manager because it's just a myth isn't it Mureska had Chelsea in 5th in the Premier League so what was different between the knockouts of the Europa Conference that he's obviously a genius at that he couldn't get right in the Premier League or like people going about Tuchel but Tuchel failed in multiple, multiple, multiple knockout tournaments.

55:28And just because he won the one, people call him a knockout manager. What do you mean by he's a knockout manager and you think he's... I don't get it. Well, I think with Tuchel, that Chelsea team was way below expectations. And I think Chelsea beat PSG as well. We dismantled them. It was 3-0. I know you're saying it's a friendly, but you saw after the game how pissed off they got. They did not take it as a friendly. Okay, but Man City went out to Real Madrid last season, who, by their standards, a poor season. How are they going to turn? They lost 6-3 on aggregate. What makes you think they can turn that around?

56:06Well, they're going to... Enzo... Was it Elliot Anderson's coming in? They're going to make more signings. New manager scares me a bit. I think Enzo Fernandes is really average, personally. Enzo Fernandes? Enzo Maresca, sorry. Yeah, well, he's not had time, has he? he's not been in many jobs you know the culture shocker going from someone that's been there for 10 years everything changed about the best even vibe everything he's learnt from Pep though hasn't he and also you're on about the Club World Cup the final is obviously a one off game you seriously think City could beat PSG over two legs this PSG well they might not be on that side though and I think Arsenal if they played PSG they could beat them I think Arsenal could get there again I'd agree with that side of it oh yeah I'm with you with Arsenal definitely I think they're one of the best teams in Europe City aren't though Yeah, but say City got the same bracket as Arsenal did last year, similar to that, they could get to the final easily.

57:01Well, that's what I mean. It's a bit of a weird one to try and debate because obviously that could happen. Yeah, they could get a pretty easy run based on the draw. But I think if we just think of it logically, there's at least four or five teams better than City in Europe. Did City get to two finals under Pep? Yeah, they lost to Chelsea and then beat Inter. so if Pep can only get there twice why can Mariska get there once in one go I just think he's more suited for I know you're saying he's not but I think he is he hasn't had enough time to show it but I think he is why is he more suited than Pep Guardiola the best manager of all time no but just in knockout football strictly knockout football Pep's won the Champions League three times yeah with unbelievable teams that he built yeah no of course but we beat PSG with a way worse team than PSG PSG.

57:53Going back to that. It's one game. We can't hold our hats on Maresca being this genius knockout manager because he beat PSG in a summer tournament that really no one cares about. I do. Yeah, there you go. It's proof of it. Right then. So let's veer away from the Champions League for a second. How do you think Chelsea are going to do in the Premier League next season? Well, my original topic was that we'd win the league next year. Yeah, that is kind of my rogue shout for next season. I think Chelsea could challenge. Just because they've got no Europe and Xabi Alonso, Rodgers, I just... To win it.

58:32Chelsea are that type of club though to do that. Not from 10th to top, I don't think. They've done it before. From 10th to... Is that what they did that time? I think so, yeah. Or similar, like something like that. They are... I don't have the exact... They're so far up Arsenal though. Why do you think... Go on, talk to me mate, why do you think that? Well, that 10th place, you're saying that 10th place, are like, for half of it. Yeah, I agree. I think it's a bit of a fugazi. That's a fake. Chelsea aren't the 10th best team in the Premier League. Yeah, but they're also not bringing someone in that's got all this pedigree behind him.

59:02He's done all right. Xabi Alonso. Xabi Alonso's done pretty well, mate. They've done 10th to 1st before. Yeah, I'm sure. I thought they did, yeah. And he's 17 first. As if that were that time. First to 10th to 1st. Chelsea are that type of club. And with no Europe, Alonso's come in. They're going to spend more, aren't they? They've got 43 more points that year. That's what I mean They can do that That is disgraceful And I think he's top Like three managers In the league now Yeah he's probably right You know Yeah I had my rescue Mate still yeah Gabriel Alonso Is a good appointment You know Yeah I know Yeah true But I just don't think That many points Behind Arsenal Palmer back fully fit Rodgers as well Keep talking You're not getting For Arsenal Well there we go I think Chelsea Can have a good season But right Thanks for calling in mate And good luck for next year, I suppose.

59:53Yeah, thanks a lot. All the best, mate. It's been an honour. How can it be this common that people keep saying this? Because I think people can just, it's Chelsea. I know. Chelsea are that type of club. Yeah, I agree with you. They just go from shit to really good to shit. They're all over playing. Also, the same, to actually argue against myself, this isn't Abramovich-Chelsea. They're still spending like it. Jesus. Yeah, but they're spending it on fucking kids to then sell on it. now but right I've had enough let's get the beers in and Will's got something planned then so yeah you've been doing the beer battle while I've been away any particular favourite I actually quite like that Japanese one was it the Japanese the weird like one of the first weeks were really nice I forgot which one it was we've had a few we've guessed a couple I know well we hold on I got one of them back on didn't I early doors no alright Nolan I don't think so well we've got a especially Do you want to go and deliver that, Connor?

1:00:52So this is a mixture of every single drink you've had this tournament. Has he got the absinthe one in? No. Thank you. We need some safety on this show. So I've got a quiz. I'm going to flashback to uni again. God, that stinks. Not a fucking Captain Hell's chance am I down in that. I was not meant to be drinking either. Go on, then. Here we go. So it's going to be a quiz on the World Cup. Whoever gets the most, you can keep counting for me, Connor. Wins. Can we have a buzzer, please? Buzz. John. Right. So far up his feet. Fairly easy. So just got to be quick. Go on, then. Ferran Torres scored the 106-minute winner for Spain in the final.

1:01:34But who provided the crucial assist? Buzz. Yeah. It was Williams. Correct. 1-0 at Tom. No! I didn't want to say his first name because I couldn't remember if it was Nico or Inaki. I always get them confused. Actually, cut that. No, keep that in. Keep that in. Number two, Enzo Fernandes was sent off in the 90th minute of the final, but how many players have been sent off in the World Cup? Buzz, it is in World Cup finals. It is. I'm counting. It's four. Incorrect. How many players have been sent off in the World Cup final? John, three. Incorrect. Jake. Buzz, you go again. Two. Incorrect. Back to you, Cal.

1:02:17John, five. Incorrect. There's no way. Buzz One Incorrect John Six Correct Yes Come on How can that be a point First try How can that actually be a point That's ridiculous Fucking come on I think if you both get that wrong You just count Oh dear Unlucky You wouldn't have said that If you got the point That's bullshit Number three The US defeated Bosnia And Herzegovina 2-0 in the round of 32 But were eliminated In the round of 16 By who Buzz Belgium Correct 2-1 Tom I took an answer for the score Number four. Which keeper won the Golden Globes? Buzz. Unai Simon. Correct. 3-1. You only need six to win.

1:02:59Number five. Norway reached the quarterfinals by upsetting Brazil 2-1 in the round of 16. Harland scored the equaliser. Who scored the winner? John Harland. Correct. Oh, shit. Of course he did. That threw me off when he said that. Number six. So it's 3-2. All three horse nations successfully reached the round of 16. Who is the only player from a horse nation to score a hat? Buzz. Balogun. Incorrect. John. Laren. Oh, Buzz. Incorrect. David. Correct. 4-2. Fuck. No! Right, so that's 4-2. Number seven, by leading Spain to glory, who became only the third manager in history? Dele Fuente. Correct. The question was to win both the Euros and the FIFA World Cup.

1:03:49That's one more to win it. 5-2. 5-2? This is embarrassing. Paraguay eliminated Germany 4-3 in penalties. Which German player missed? What? All of them who missed? The crucial... All right. It was... Far come between two.

1:04:07It was... Tar. Correct. Yes! You'll learn, mate. on this set I don't lose quizzes right we'll get it down yeah and before we end the show as Callum's down and that we want to thank you all for tuning in to the calling show over the World Cup we hope you've enjoyed it thanks for all your lovely comments and support we will see you in the new season and don't forget me and Callum have got a brand new show coming very soon look out for it well done son bye everyone

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