Pure Football Podcast: Recent Episodes
Guillem Balague
I caught up with Sunday Times' Jonathan Northcroft who wrote an article on "how Pep Guardiola and data destroyed" football's beautiful variety. We discuss and debate the merits of the Pep school of footballing philosophy, starting from Cruyff, to those now copying or taking forward Pep's approach.
Here's Jonathan's article, which is a must-read: https://www.thetimes.com/sport/footba...
In this podcast, created thanks to the wonderful people at Greene King, I caught up with some well known @avfcofficial fans, and we discussed their beloved club. I also share my reasons for picking Aston Villa as the subject of my next book, which you on the channel may already have figured out, called Awakening The Giant. So enjoy this podcast of More Than A Game (Tales On Tap) sponsored by #GreeneKingSport.
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I have had the most wonderful chat with Mutaz Barshim and Gian Marcotamber (the two high jumpers that decided to share gold in Tokyo Olympics) in the Gala of the Aspire Academy Global Summit in Rome if front of an audience that felt captivated by these two special human beings. What a story they have to tell.
In fact it is so wonderful that I decided to do a podcast about it.
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I spoke to Julen Lopetegui about Wolves and he explained with a very calm voice the alarming situation he finds himself in. You have to listen to the Spanish manager. It is very difficult to hear so much honesty and sincerity.
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The transfer of Figo from Barcelona (where he was captain and symbol of a way of understanding the game and football) hurt many people. And it is not clear how it all happened. That is why it remains fresh in our minds. With the release of The Figo Affair on Netflix, I decided to speak to its two directors, the award-winning duo David Tryhorn and Ben Nicholas, and dissect the documentary but especially the ins and outs of the then World-record breaking deal.
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• For all podcast enquiries please email george@blueprintsports.co.uk
I have not found many people like Mike Clegg in my years in football. Intense, vanguardist, creative and flexible, deeply religious. So of course he had to be at some point one of the special episodes of the Pure Football Podcast.
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• Podcast cover image by Maribel Herruzo
• For all podcast enquiries please email george@blueprintsports.co.uk
A very special episode.
I decided to take my friends @gmallamaci and @UCFB_Dan to the HQ of @FootballManager, a game they played 1000s of times
We spoke to @milesSI and discovered fascinating little secrets of the legendary game
•Follow @purefootballpod on Twitter •Podcast cover image by Maribel Herruzo •For all podcast enquiries please email george@blueprintsports.co.uk
In this episode of the Pure Football Podcast, Guillem speaks to iconic former goalkeeper, Peter Schmeichel. The former Manchester United stopper chats about Sir Alex of course, and his son Kasper, but also about elite mentality, his own fascinating past, and even Pep Guardiola.
•Follow @purefootballpod on Twitter •Podcast cover image by Maribel Herruzo •For all podcast enquiries please email george@blueprintsports.co.uk
In this episode of the Pure Football Podcast, Guillem speaks to Jordi Cruyff. The now FC Barcelona Technical Secretary (advisor to the director of football) is one of the main men leading the club’s revolution. Few men are better traveled in the world of football and he had one of the greatest minds to pick as a father of course in Johan Cruyff himself.
•Follow @purefootballpod on Twitter •Podcast cover image by Maribel Herruzo •For all podcast enquiries please email george@blueprintsports.co.uk
In this episode of the Pure Football Podcast, Guillem speaks on how Everton got to this stage of division and unhappiness, and what can be done... Including the role of the owners, board and the fans.
@mintisculture @USAToffeePod @TheScoutedHub @theesK
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Podcast cover image by Maribel Herruzo. For all podcast enquiries please email george@blueprintsports.co.uk
As part of the UCFB masterclasses, Guillem Balagué talks to English sports broadcaster, Kate Abdo, about her career in three countries, and what lessons she learnt working for Sky Germany, Sky Sports UK, CBS, TNT, Fox and presenting the FIFA Ballon d'Or. Guillem asked for a student to edit the podcast as a job experience and Kacper Narodzonek took up the challenge.
Twitter: @KNarodzonek Instagram: @k.narodzonek
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A special thanks to TalkSport for hosting Guillem on this feature episode with Eddie Howe, talking about joining Newcastle United.
You’ve been listening to the Pure Football Podcast, with me Guillem Balague.
On this special episode of the Pure Football Podcast, Guillem welcomes Santi Solari, the Argentine manager and former player as they discuss all things football. He also shares his thoughts on the difference between football in different countries and the excitement that surrounds them.
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Brentford head coach Thomas Frank joins Guillem, Vicki & Charlotte on this week's Pure Football Podcast. Thomas gives us an insight into his coaching methods, the importance of managing his energy, and how he's preparing for life in the Premier League this season.
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In partnership with GentingBet. 18+ begambleaware.org
Podcast cover image by Maribel Herruzo. For all podcast enquiries please email george@blueprintsports.co.uk
On this special episode of the Pure Football Podcast, Guillem welcomes Gary Lineker who shares his memories of Diego Maradona ahead of the release of Guillem’s latest book. He also tells us about his interesting pre-match superstitions, how football has changed and his thoughts on that Maradona goal.
Maradona: The Boy. The Rebel. The God. Is available from 8th July. Purchase it here: http://smarturl.it/MaradonaBalague
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In partnership with GentingBet. 18+ begambleaware.org
Podcast cover image by Maribel Herruzo. For all podcast enquiries please email george@blueprintsports.co.uk
Guillem is joined by Sevilla manager Julen Lopetegui to discuss Euro 2020, the influence of Johan Cruyff on his management style, and the evolution of the role of the goalkeeper.
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In partnership with GentingBet. 18+ begambleaware.org
Podcast cover image by Maribel Herruzo. For all podcast enquiries please email george@blueprintsports.co.uk
Ahead of the Champions League Final this week between Manchester City & Chelsea, Guillem welcomes Domenec Torrent, a former member of Pep Guardiola’s staff at Barcelona, Bayern Munich, and Manchester City. They discuss the evolution of Pep, Dome’s own managerial ambitions, and predictions for the final.
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In partnership with GentingBet. 18+ begambleaware.org
Podcast cover image by Maribel Herruzo. For all podcast enquiries please email george@blueprintsports.co.uk
Guillem is joined by Villarreal's Francis Coquelin ahead of the Europa League semi-final second leg against his former team Arsenal. They discuss being managed by Arsene Wenger, Mikel Arteta's leadership skills, and what it was like moving to London to join the Gunners aged just 17.
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In partnership with GentingBet. 18+ begambleaware.org
Podcast cover image by Maribel Herruzo. For all podcast enquiries please email george@blueprintsports.co.uk
In this week's episode, we are joined by Atlético Madrid goalkeeper Jan Oblak. The Slovenian talks to Guillem about why he chose to be a goalkeeper, his inspirations when growing up, and the influence of his father, as well as the pressures of playing elite football.
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In partnership with GentingBet. 18+ begambleaware.org
Podcast cover image by Maribel Herruzo. For all podcast enquiries please email george@blueprintsports.co.uk
What will football look like in 10 years? It’s a big question but that’s exactly what our guests this week will attempt to answer. In this fascinating conversation, Guillem is joined by Jan van Loon, Fran Moya, and Edu Rubio to discuss exactly what they believe football needs to do to adapt, as well the potential future role of the head coach and how players can take greater ownership in the evolution of the game.
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Podcast cover image by Maribel Herruzo. For all podcast enquiries please email george@blueprintsports.co.uk
The 2021 FC Barcelona presidential election will take place on 7th March 2021 for electing the 41st President of the club. Guillem spoke to the three candidates, asking them the same five questions that included the future of Leo Messi, what they think of the proposed European Super League, and are they on the verge of bankruptcy?
In partnership with GentingBet. 18+ begambleaware.org
Podcast cover image by Maribel Herruzo. For all podcast enquiries please email george@blueprintsports.co.uk
Guillem is joined by RB Leipzig manager Julian Nagelsmann ahead of their Champions League match against Liverpool. They discuss his early start in management and his coaching philosophy, getting the phone call to manage Real Madrid, and a mutual love of jazzy shirts!
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Podcast cover image by Maribel Herruzo. For all podcast enquiries please email george@blueprintsports.co.uk
We have a special episode for you this week, Guillem speaks to his friend Jamie Carragher. The Liverpool legend discusses an incident involving Guillem which caused a bit of havoc, his thoughts on the future of the game, and whether he’s Messi or Ronaldo.
In partnership with GentingBet. 18+ begambleaware.org
Podcast cover image by Maribel Herruzo. For all podcast enquiries please email george@blueprintsports.co.uk
In this week’s episode, Guillem visits Cesc Fabregas. The former Barcelona & Arsenal midfielder opened up to Guillem about his plans after football, a love of London, and the desire to reconnect with Arsene Wenger.
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Podcast cover image by Maribel Herruzo. For all podcast enquiries please email george@blueprintsports.co.uk
We have a special episode of the Pure Football Podcast this week. Mauricio Pochettino will shortly be announced as the manager of PSG. Guillem and Julien Laurens discuss what Pochettino will be hoping to create at the club, how he will manage a team with superstars Neymar and Mbappe, and whether they will be joined by Lionel Messi this summer.
In partnership with GentingBet. 18+ begambleaware.org
Podcast cover image by Maribel Herruzo. For all podcast enquiries please email george@blueprintsports.co.uk
In this week’s episode, Guillem visits Frédéric Kanouté. The striker discusses his faith, a love of London & the advice he would give to his younger self.
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Podcast cover image by Maribel Herruzo. For all podcast enquiries please email george@blueprintsports.co.uk
In this week’s episode, Guillem is welcomed in by Premier League legend Andy Cole. The treble-winning striker discusses his battle with his life-changing illness, the importance of his family, and why you won’t find any of his own memorabilia in his home.
In partnership with GentingBet. 18+ begambleaware.org
Podcast cover image by Maribel Herruzo. For all podcast enquiries please email george@blueprintsports.co.uk
In the first episode of our new series, Can We Come In?, Norwich City’s Max Aarons welcomes us into his home as we find out more about the 20-year-old’s life away from the game. Guillem & Max discuss the interest from Barcelona in the right-back, his admiration for Cristiano Ronaldo, and what he’d cook to impress his idol.
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Podcast cover image by Maribel Herruzo. For all podcast enquiries please email george@blueprintsports.co.uk
In his first public conversation since leaving his post as Arsenal’s Head of International Scouting, Francis Cagigao talks to Guillem Balague about recommending the likes of Cesc Fabregas, his own career, being a Spanish Londoner and spending 24 years with the Gunners.
In partnership with GentingBet. 18+ begambleaware.org
Podcast cover image by Maribel Herruzo. For all podcast enquiries please email george@blueprintsports.co.uk
In this episode of the Pure Football Podcast, Guillem Balague speaks to former Celta de Vigo assistant manager David Martinez in the aftermath of disappointing Spanish performances in the UEFA Champions League. Is Spanish dominance a thing of the past?
In partnership with GentingBet. 18+ begambleaware.org
Podcast cover image by Maribel Herruzo. For all podcast enquiries please email george@blueprintsports.co.uk
In this episode of the Pure Football Podcast, Guillem Balague talks music with Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola. This is a shortened version of a BBC Radio 5 Live Daily Podcast special which can still be downloaded in full on BBC Sounds.
In partnership with GentingBet. 18+ begambleaware.org
Podcast cover image by Maribel Herruzo. For all podcast enquiries please email george@blueprintsports.co.uk
In this episode of the Pure Football Podcast, Guillem Balague meets with Mikel Arteta, Hector Bellerin and Gaizka Mendieta, and chats with Juan Mata about life in Manchester, London and Oviedo.
In partnership with GentingBet. 18+ begambleaware.org
Podcast cover image by Maribel Herruzo. For all podcast enquiries please email george@blueprintsports.co.uk
In this episode of the Pure Football Podcast, Guillem Balague speaks to former Real Sociedad and Real Madrid coach John Toshack about his time in Spain and Portugal and almost taking over from Bob Paisley at Liverpool.
In partnership with GentingBet. 18+ begambleaware.org
Podcast cover image by Maribel Herruzo. For all podcast enquiries please email george@blueprintsports.co.uk
In this episode of the Pure Football Podcast, Guillem Balague meets a player old and new from Barcelona’s long lineage of Netherlands internationals: Giovanni Van Bronckhorst and Frenkie De Jong.
In partnership with GentingBet. 18+ begambleaware.org
Podcast cover image by Maribel Herruzo. For all podcast enquiries please email george@blueprintsports.co.uk
In this episode of the Pure Football Podcast, Guillem Balague speaks to Aitor Karanka about his biggest influences in playing, coaching and life.
In partnership with GentingBet. 18+ begambleaware.org
Podcast cover image by Maribel Herruzo. For all podcast enquiries please email george@blueprintsports.co.uk
In this episode of the Pure Football Podcast, Guillem Balague speaks to Spanish FIFA World Cup 2010 winners David Villa and Xabi Alonso.
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Podcast cover image by Maribel Herruzo. For all podcast enquiries please email george@blueprintsports.co.uk
In this bonus episode of the Pure Football Podcast, Guillem Balague talks to agents Artur Fernandes and Marcelino Elena, and Leeds United Sporting Director Victor Orta, about the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the football business.
In partnership with GentingBet. 18+ begambleaware.org
Podcast cover image by Maribel Herruzo. For all podcast enquiries please email george@blueprintsports.co.uk
In this bonus episode of the Pure Football Podcast, Guillem Balague revisits his Soccerex interview with Diego Maradona. We’ve translated the conversation into English with Semra Hunter standing in for El Diego.
In partnership with GentingBet. 18+ begambleaware.org
Podcast cover image by Maribel Herruzo. For all podcast enquiries please email george@blueprintsports.co.uk
Guillem Balague speaks to Brentford sports psychologist Michael Caulfield and former Arsenal player Lauren about the importance of the mind.
In partnership with GentingBet. 18+ begambleaware.org
Podcast cover image by Maribel Herruzo. For all podcast enquiries please email george@blueprintsports.co.uk
In this very special episode of the Pure Football Podcast, Guillem Balague is joined in Buenos Aires by Sebastián Garciá, Sergio Levinsky, Sam Kelly, Esteban Bekerman and Santi Bauzá to talk about the great Diego Maradona.
In partnership with GentingBet. 18+ begambleaware.org
Podcast cover image by Maribel Herruzo. For all podcast enquiries please email george@blueprintsports.co.uk
Guillem Balague speaks to Jürgen Klopp, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Jordan Henderson and Adam Lallana about the roots of their success with Liverpool.
In partnership with GentingBet. 18+ begambleaware.org
Podcast cover image by Maribel Herruzo. For all podcast enquiries please email george@blueprintsports.co.uk
The coronavirus pandemic is changing the world. Football isn’t the most important thing right now, but it will also be affected. Guillem Balague talks to managers Carlos Carvalhal and Pep Clotet, sporting director Stuart Webber and Arsenal invincible Lauren about its impact.
In partnership with GentingBet. 18+ begambleaware.org
Podcast cover image by Maribel Herruzo. For all podcast enquiries please email george@blueprintsports.co.uk
Guillem Balague speaks to sports psychologist Bill Beswick and FC Bayern and Poland striker Robert Lewandowski about the mindset of sportspeople at the top of their game.
In partnership with GentingBet. 18+ begambleaware.org
Podcast cover image by Maribel Herruzo. For all podcast enquiries please email george@blueprintsports.co.uk