The Rest Is Football

Ekitike Shines, Carrick Keeps Winning & Man City Drop Points Again

After standout performances from Hugo Ekitike and Florian Wirtz, are Liverpool’s new signings finally starting to click under Arne Slot? Michael Carrick joins Sir Matt Busby and Ole Gunnar Solskjær as the only United managers to win four of their first five league games — could he force the board’s hand and earn the permanent head coach role by season’s end? The Guys also break down another frustrating result for Manchester City away at Spurs. Despite looking in control at half-time, City once again failed to close the game out. What is this City side lacking to kill teams off like they have so many times under Pep Guardiola? The Rest Is Football is powered by Fuse Energy. To sign up and for terms and conditions, visit fuseenergy.com/football. Join The Players Lounge: The official fantasy football club of The Rest Is Football. It’s time to take on Gary, Alan and Micah for the chance to win monthly prizes and shoutouts on the pod. It’s FREE to join and as a member, you’ll get access to exclusive tips from Fantasy Football Hub including AI-powered team ratings, transfer tips, and expert team reveals to help you climb the table - plus access to our private Slack community. Sign up today at therestisfootball.com. https://therestisfootball.com/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=episode_description&utm_content=link_cta For more Goalhanger Podcasts, head to www.goalhanger.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

English Clubs Dominate Europe

Five of the six English clubs have finished in the top eight of the Champions League league phase, automatically qualifying for the knockout rounds. With many of those same teams struggling domestically this season, why have they been so strong in Europe? Is the physical intensity of the Premier League giving them an edge on the continental stage? Gary, Alan and Micah also react to a chaotic final day of the league phase, as European heavyweights including Real Madrid and PSG fail to secure automatic qualification. The Rest Is Football is powered by Fuse Energy. To sign up and for terms and conditions, visit fuseenergy.com/football. Join The Players Lounge: The official fantasy football club of The Rest Is Football. It’s time to take on Gary, Alan and Micah for the chance to win monthly prizes and shoutouts on the pod. It’s FREE to join and as a member, you’ll get access to exclusive tips from Fantasy Football Hub including AI-powered team ratings, transfer tips, and expert team reveals to help you climb the table - plus access to our private Slack community. Sign up today at the therestisfootball.com https://therestisfootball.com/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=episode_description&utm_content=link_cta For more Goalhanger Podcasts, head to www.goalhanger.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sergio Aguero: The Moments That Made Them

Was Sergio Aguero’s dramatic winner against QPR the most iconic moment in Premier League history? Where does he rank on the all-time list of Premier League number 9s? And how much of his success can actually be credited to Big Meeks? Gary, Alan & Micah discuss the glittering career of Manchester City’s all time leading goal scorer. The Rest Is Football is powered by Fuse Energy. To sign up and for terms and conditions, visit fuseenergy.com/football. Join The Players Lounge: The official fantasy football club of The Rest Is Football. It’s time to take on Gary, Alan and Micah for the chance to win monthly prizes and shoutouts on the pod. It’s FREE to join and as a member, you’ll get access to exclusive tips from Fantasy Football Hub including AI-powered team ratings, transfer tips, and expert team reveals to help you climb the table - plus access to our private Slack community. Sign up today at therestisfootball.com https://therestisfootball.com/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=episode_description&utm_content=link_cta For more Goalhanger Podcasts, head to www.goalhanger.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

TRENT AND JULIAN ALVAREZ BACK TO THE PREMIER LEAGUE?

It’s neck and neck at the top of La Liga as Real Madrid kept up the pressure on leaders Barcelona with a 2-0 win away at third placed Villarreal while Barca put last week’s slip up behind them with a 3-0 win over Real Oviedo at the Camp Nou. Gary and Alex look at another two goals for the rampant Kylian Mbappe, including a panenka penalty he awkwardly dedicated to teammate Brahim Diaz, and there’s an absolute stunner from Lamine Yamal to enjoy too. It’s transfer season and rumours have begun to swirl over Trent Alexander-Arnold’s future at Real Madrid, with some reports suggesting he could be on the way out in the summer. Gary and Alex look at the England international’s difficult first six months in Madrid and assess his chances of turning his fortunes around as we approach the world cup. There’s more transfer talk on the other half of Madrid with Atletico’s Julian Alvarez linked with a return to the Premier League in what would be a sensational January move to Arsenal. Diego Simeone has publicly backed the underperforming former Man City man but could the move be the thing that would finally get the Gunners over the line in their quest to win the Premier League title? Join The Players Lounge: The official fantasy football club of The Rest Is Football. It’s time to take on Gary, Alan and Micah for the chance to win monthly prizes and shoutouts on the pod. It’s FREE to join and as a member, you’ll get access to exclusive tips from Fantasy Football Hub including AI-powered team ratings, transfer tips, and expert team reveals to help you climb the table - plus access to our private Slack community. Sign up today at therestisfootball.com https://therestisfootball.com/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=episode_description&utm_content=link_cta For more Goalhanger Podcasts, head to www.goalhanger.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Squeaky Arse-nal Time, Carrick In Dreamland & Villa in The Title Race

Are Mikel Arteta’s tactics becoming too defensive? With no wins in their last three games and a worrying lack of goals from the forward line, are Arsenal in danger of throwing away their Premier League advantage? Michael Carrick has made a dream start, claiming statement wins over Manchester City and Arsenal. Can he guide Manchester United into the Champions League places — and does he deserve the permanent head coach role? Gary, Alan and Micah also break down Unai Emery’s brilliant tactics and ask the question: can Aston Villa go all the way and win the league? The Rest Is Football is powered by Fuse Energy. To sign up and for terms and conditions, visit fuseenergy.com/football. Join The Players Lounge: The official fantasy football club of The Rest Is Football. It’s time to take on Gary, Alan and Micah for the chance to win monthly prizes and shoutouts on the pod. It’s FREE to join and as a member, you’ll get access to exclusive tips from Fantasy Football Hub including AI-powered team ratings, transfer tips, and expert team reveals to help you climb the table - plus access to our private Slack community. Sign up today at therestisfootball.com https://therestisfootball.com/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=episode_description&utm_content=link_cta For more Goalhanger Podcasts, head to www.goalhanger.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Pep Needs To Sort It Out

How on earth did Man City lose to Bodo/Glimt and what does Pep need to do to get his team going again? Arsenal are top of the Champions League and looking imperious, is this the year they win it all? Newcastle looked impressive at home to PSV but how will they fare in Paris next week as they look to clinch a top 8 spot against PSG? Have Liverpool quietly turned a corner in recent weeks? Gary, Alan and Micah also discuss the continued overall dominance of the Premier League clubs in Europe as all five Premier League clubs have a chance of finishing in the Champions League top eight and the Pod Wars are starting to ramp up! The Rest Is Football is powered by Fuse Energy. To sign up and for terms and conditions, visit fuseenergy.com/football. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Steven Gerrard: The Moments That Made Them

Was Steven Gerrard the greatest player never to win the Premier League? Did loyalty to Liverpool ultimately limit his legacy, or define it? And when it comes to England’s golden generation, who truly stands above the rest: Gerrard, Lampard or Scholes? Gary, Micah and Alan discuss the remarkable career of Liverpool royalty Steven Gerrard. They revisit the highest of highs, lifting the Champions League in Istanbul, and the most painful of lows: the infamous slip that shattered title dreams. New episodes in this series will be released every Wednesday and each show will be dedicated to a specific Premier League icon. The guys will pick out five key moments that defined their career, discussing what made them so special and sharing some of their best stories from playing alongside and against them. The Rest Is Football is powered by Fuse Energy. To sign up and for terms and conditions, visit fuseenergy.com/football. Join The Players Lounge: The official fantasy football club of The Rest Is Football. It’s time to take on Gary, Alan and Micah for the chance to win monthly prizes and shoutouts on the pod. It’s FREE to join and as a member, you’ll get access to exclusive tips from Fantasy Football Hub including AI-powered team ratings, transfer tips, and expert team reveals to help you climb the table - plus access to our private Slack community. Sign up today at therestisfootball.com. https://therestisfootball.com/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=episode_description&utm_content=link_cta For more Goalhanger Podcasts, head to www.goalhanger.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Vinicius, Bellingham and Valverde booed at the Bernabeu & Barca suffer defeat

Real Madrid returned to winning ways at the weekend when they beat Levante 2-0 but the Bernabeu crowd singled out Vinicius Jr, Jude Bellingham and Fede Valverde for boos and whistles as they continued to express their displeasure at Xabi Alonso’s sacking. Gary And Alex react to the scenes in Madrid and the challenges facing new manager Alvaro Arbeloa. Barcelona’s nine-game winning streak came to an end with defeat at Real Sociedad in an incident-packed game featuring disallowed goals, overturned penalties, and a brilliant performance from La Real’s goalkeeper. This result means Barca are only one point ahead of Real Madrid at the top of La Liga, but there was some positive news for Marcus Rashford as he got himself on the scoresheet. Finally, we look at Villarreal’s fading hopes of muscling their way into the title race after defeat at an improving Real Betis and there’s a look at Atletico Madrid’s Alexander Sorloth proving some of his doubters wrong with a superb winning goal against Alaves. Join The Players Lounge: The official fantasy football club of The Rest Is Football. It’s time to take on Gary, Alan and Micah for the chance to win monthly prizes and shoutouts on the pod. It’s FREE to join and as a member, you’ll get access to exclusive tips from Fantasy Football Hub including AI-powered team ratings, transfer tips, and expert team reveals to help you climb the table - plus access to our private Slack community. Sign up today at therestisfootball.com https://therestisfootball.com/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=episode_description&utm_content=link_cta For more Goalhanger Podcasts, head to www.goalhanger.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Man Utd Dominate Man City, Frank’s Struggles Continue At Spurs & Glasner Feeling Abandoned At Palace

Was that the best Man United performance we’ve seen in years? Can Thomas Frank get Spurs out of this rut, or is he on borrowed time? What next for Crystal Palace after Oliver Glasner announces he’s leaving at the end of end of the season and captain Marc Guéhi leaves for Man City? Gary, Alan and Micah also discuss Liverpool’s 12-game unbeaten run and debate whether it’s one of the most misleading unbeaten runs in Premier League history, as rumblings of discontent grow on Merseyside. The Rest Is Football is powered by Fuse Energy. To sign up and for terms and conditions, visit fuseenergy.com/football Join The Players Lounge: The official fantasy football club of The Rest Is Football. It’s time to take on Gary, Alan and Micah for the chance to win monthly prizes and shoutouts on the pod. It’s FREE to join and as a member, you’ll get access to exclusive tips from Fantasy Football Hub including AI-powered team ratings, transfer tips, and expert team reveals to help you climb the table - plus access to our private Slack community. Sign up today at therestisfootball.com. https://therestisfootball.com/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=episode_description&utm_content=link_cta For more Goalhanger Podcasts, head to www.goalhanger.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mid-Season Report: All 20 Clubs

Will Arsenal finally go all the way and win the Premier League? Have West Ham, Burnley and Wolves got any chance of staying up? Which club has been the biggest surprise of the season so far? Gary, Alan & Micah look back at their pre-season predictions, assess just how right, or wrong, they’ve been, and predict where all 20 Premier League clubs will finish when the season comes to an end. The Rest Is Football is powered by Fuse Energy. To sign up and for terms and conditions, visit fuseenergy.com/football. Join The Players Lounge: The official fantasy football club of The Rest Is Football. It’s time to take on Gary, Alan and Micah for the chance to win monthly prizes and shoutouts on the pod. It’s FREE to join and as a member, you’ll get access to exclusive tips from Fantasy Football Hub including AI-powered team ratings, transfer tips, and expert team reveals to help you climb the table - plus access to our private Slack community. Sign up today at therestisfootball.com. https://therestisfootball.com/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=episode_description&utm_content=link_cta For more Goalhanger Podcasts, head to www.goalhanger.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

David Beckham: The Moments That Made Them

Was David Beckham underrated during his playing career? What was it that allowed him to transcend football and become a global icon? And why did his relationship with Sir Alex Ferguson ultimately break down? Gary, Alan and Micah dive into David Beckham’s remarkable Premier League journey with Manchester United, from baby-faced youngster to global superstar, analysing his impact on the pitch, his influence off it, and the legacy he left on the game. New episodes in this series will be released every Wednesday and each show will be dedicated to a specific Premier League icon. The guys will pick out five key moments that defined their career, discussing what made them so special and sharing some of their best stories from playing alongside and against them. The Rest Is Football is powered by Fuse Energy. To sign up and for terms and conditions, visit fuseenergy.com/football. Join The Players Lounge: The official fantasy football club of The Rest Is Football. It’s time to take on Gary, Alan and Micah for the chance to win monthly prizes and shoutouts on the pod. It’s FREE to join and as a member, you’ll get access to exclusive tips from Fantasy Football Hub including AI-powered team ratings, transfer tips, and expert team reveals to help you climb the table - plus access to our private Slack community. Sign up today at therestisfootball.com https://therestisfootball.com/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=episode_description&utm_content=link_cta For more Goalhanger Podcasts, head to www.goalhanger.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Xabi Alonso Sacked After Barcelona Win Super Cup

Real Madrid have made a shock managerial change, sacking Xabi Alonso and confirming Álvaro Arbeloa as his successor. Gary and Alex react to the decision and what it means for Madrid’s future. The fallout continues after Barcelona emerged victorious in one of the great Clásicos, defeating Real Madrid to lift the Spanish Super Cup in Saudi Arabia. Vinícius Jr’s sensational solo effort for Los Blancos proved in vain, as Raphinha stole the headlines with a superb brace for Barça. The pair also heap praise on Hansi Flick, who maintains his perfect record in finals — eight wins from eight — and boasts an astonishing Barcelona return of 256 goals in just 88 matches, averaging an incredible 2.99 goals per game. Finally, Villarreal’s winning run is up for discussion, with debate over whether they can close the gap on Real Madrid in La Liga and mount a genuine title challenge Join The Players Lounge: The official fantasy football club of The Rest Is Football. It’s time to take on Gary, Alan and Micah for the chance to win monthly prizes and shoutouts on the pod. It’s FREE to join and as a member, you’ll get access to exclusive tips from Fantasy Football Hub including AI-powered team ratings, transfer tips, and expert team reveals to help you climb the table - plus access to our private Slack community. Sign up today at therestisfootball.com https://therestisfootball.com/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=episode_description&utm_content=link_cta For more Goalhanger Podcasts, head to www.goalhanger.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

United Crash Out, Semenyo’s Dream Debut & The Biggest Upset In FA Cup History?

Trouble continues for Manchester United as they crash out of the FA Cup against Brighton. With speculation growing over the possible appointment of yet another interim manager, Gary, Alan and Micah question whether the club has a clear plan moving forward. Elsewhere, have we witnessed the greatest upset in FA Cup history? Non-league side Macclesfield stunned cup holders Crystal Palace, knocking them out despite being six divisions apart in the football pyramid. The guys also break down Manchester City’s 10-goal demolition of Exeter and reflect on the dream debut of new big-money signing Antoine Semenyo. The Rest Is Football is powered by Fuse Energy. To sign up and for terms and conditions, visit fuseenergy.com/football. Join The Players Lounge: The official fantasy football club of The Rest Is Football. It’s time to take on Gary, Alan and Micah for the chance to win monthly prizes and shoutouts on the pod. It’s FREE to join and as a member, you’ll get access to exclusive tips from Fantasy Football Hub including AI-powered team ratings, transfer tips, and expert team reveals to help you climb the table - plus access to our private Slack community. Sign up today at therestisfootball.com https://therestisfootball.com/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=episode_description&utm_content=link_cta For more Goalhanger Podcasts, head to www.goalhanger.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

United’s Ongoing Mess, Brentford Buzzing & A Drab Affair At The Emirates

Were Manchester United right to sack Ruben Amorim? Gary, Alan and Micah debate whether United need to follow the model of Manchester City, Arsenal and Aston Villa, backing long-serving managers with real influence over recruitment — and ask the big question: when will the problems at Old Trafford finally end?  Praise is also heaped on Keith Andrews at Brentford, who has enjoyed an outstanding season, with his side sitting 5th and just two points off the top four. The panel also discuss the cagey affair at the Emirates. While it ended in a draw, the point keeps Arsenal six points clear of Manchester City, who were held by Brighton for the third league game in a row. The Rest Is Football is powered by Fuse Energy. To sign up and for terms and conditions, visit fuseenergy.com/football. Join The Players Lounge: The official fantasy football club of The Rest Is Football. It’s time to take on Gary, Alan and Micah for the chance to win monthly prizes and shoutouts on the pod. It’s FREE to join and as a member, you’ll get access to exclusive tips from Fantasy Football Hub including AI-powered team ratings, transfer tips, and expert team reveals to help you climb the table - plus access to our private Slack community. Sign up today at therestisfootball.com. https://therestisfootball.com/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=episode_description&utm_content=link_cta For more Goalhanger Podcasts, head to www.goalhanger.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Thierry Henry: The Moments That Made Them

Why was Arsene Wenger so key to getting the best out of Thierry Henry? How did he encapsulate the essence of Va Va Voom in his play? Where does he rank on the list of the Premier League’s best ever strikers? Gary, Alan and Micah get together for the first show in our new series Premier League Greats: The Moments That Made Them. New episodes in this series will be released every Wednesday and each show will be dedicated to a specific Premier League icon. The guys will pick out five key moments that defined their career, discussing what made them so special and sharing some of their best stories from playing alongside and against them. The Rest Is Football is powered by Fuse Energy. To sign up and for terms and conditions, visit fuseenergy.com/football Join The Players Lounge: The official fantasy football club of The Rest Is Football. It’s time to take on Gary, Alan and Micah for the chance to win monthly prizes and shoutouts on the pod. It’s FREE to join and as a member, you’ll get access to exclusive tips from Fantasy Football Hub including AI-powered team ratings, transfer tips, and expert team reveals to help you climb the table - plus access to our private Slack community. Sign up today at therestisfootball.com https://therestisfootball.com/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=episode_description&utm_content=link_cta For more Goalhanger Podcasts, head to www.goalhanger.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Amorim Sacked, Garcia’s Perfect Hat-trick & Olmo’s Late Stunner

Real Madrid academy graduate Gonzalo García steals the headlines with a perfect hat-trick as Madrid dismantle Real Betis. With García in red-hot form, can Xabi Alonso find a system that fits both him and Kylian Mbappé into the starting XI, and what does that mean for the increasingly out-of-favour Vinícius Jr? Over in Catalonia, Barcelona make it nine straight La Liga wins thanks to a stunning strike from Dani Olmo. Is anyone capable of stopping Barça’s charge to the title? Plus, Gary & Alex break down the sacking of Rúben Amorim, and debate whether his post-match comments at the weekend suggested he was already looking for the exit. Join The Players Lounge: The official fantasy football club of The Rest Is Football. It’s time to take on Gary, Alan and Micah for the chance to win monthly prizes and shoutouts on the pod. It’s FREE to join and as a member, you’ll get access to exclusive tips from Fantasy Football Hub including AI-powered team ratings, transfer tips, and expert team reveals to help you climb the table - plus access to our private Slack community. Sign up today at therestisfootball.com https://therestisfootball.com/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=episode_description&utm_content=link_cta For more Goalhanger Podcasts, head to www.goalhanger.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Arsenal’s Title To Lose, Amorim Takes Aim & Wolves Finally Win A Game!

Arsenal charge six points clear at the top of the table, do they already have one hand on the Premier League trophy? With Manchester City dropping points in two of their last three games and Erling Haaland now goalless in three, are they becoming too reliant on their star striker? Gary, Micah and Al also dive into Ruben Amorim’s post-match press conference, where the United boss appeared to take a subtle dig at the club’s owners. Is patience wearing thin, and could time already be running out for Amorim at Old Trafford? The Rest Is Football is powered by Fuse Energy. To sign up and for terms and conditions, visit fuseenergy.com/football. Join The Players Lounge: The official fantasy football club of The Rest Is Football. It’s time to take on Gary, Alan and Micah for the chance to win monthly prizes and shoutouts on the pod. It’s FREE to join and as a member, you’ll get access to exclusive tips from Fantasy Football Hub including AI-powered team ratings, transfer tips, and expert team reveals to help you climb the table - plus access to our private Slack community. Sign up today at therestisfootball.com https://therestisfootball.com/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=episode_description&utm_content=link_cta For more Goalhanger Podcasts, head to www.goalhanger.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Title Race Mind Games & Enzo Maresca Sacked

Arsenal move four points clear at the top of the Premier League as Manchester City drop points away at Sunderland. Alan and Micah draw on their own playing careers to break down the pressure, mind games, and mental battles that come with a title race as the finish line approaches. Can Arsenal handle the weight of expectation and finally lift their first league title in 22 years? The guys also react to Chelsea’s decision to sack Enzo Maresca, debating whether the owners made the right call. The Rest Is Football is powered by Fuse Energy. To sign up and for terms and conditions, visit fuseenergy.com/football. Join The Players Lounge: The official fantasy football club of The Rest Is Football. It’s time to take on Gary, Alan and Micah for the chance to win monthly prizes and shoutouts on the pod. It’s FREE to join and as a member, you’ll get access to exclusive tips from Fantasy Football Hub including AI-powered team ratings, transfer tips, and expert team reveals to help you climb the table - plus access to our private Slack community. Sign up today at therestisfootball.com https://therestisfootball.com/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=episode_description&utm_content=link_cta For more Goalhanger Podcasts, head to www.goalhanger.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Villa’s Incredible Run Continues, Man City Pile On The Points Not Kilos & Brentford Defying The Odds

How did Unai Emery’s genius win Aston Villa the game at Chelsea? Has Rayan Cherki’s brilliance been the spark that has seen Man City win eight games on the bounce? How has Keith Andrews got Brentford playing so effectively after losing Bryan Mbeumo & Yoane Wissa in the summer? Gary, Alan and Micah also debate whether Arsenal continuing to win these edgy games is a good sign for them or is asking for trouble.  The Rest Is Football is powered by Fuse Energy. To sign up and for terms and conditions, visit fuseenergy.com/football  When you've done enough, Uber Eats. Join The Players Lounge: The official fantasy football club of The Rest Is Football. It’s time to take on Gary, Alan and Micah for the chance to win monthly prizes and shoutouts on the pod.  It’s FREE to join and as a member, you’ll get access to exclusive tips from Fantasy Football Hub including AI-powered team ratings, transfer tips, and expert team reveals to help you climb the table - plus access to our private Slack community. Sign up today at therestisfootball.com. For more Goalhanger Podcasts, head to www.goalhanger.com  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Merry Christmas!

A short message from Gary to say a big thank you to all our listeners for their support so far this season and give an update on some of the exciting things we’ve got planned for 2026. Have a wonderful Christmas! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mbappe vs Ronaldo

Kylian Mbappé marked his birthday in style, matching Cristiano Ronaldo’s best-ever goal tally for Real Madrid in a calendar year. With over 200 more goal involvements than Ronaldo had at the same age, does Mbappé already have a case for being the better player at 27? Gary and Alex also break down Barcelona’s dominant form after their eighth straight win against Villarreal, is there anyone who can actually stop Barça right now? Join The Players Lounge: The official fantasy football club of The Rest Is Football. It’s time to take on Gary, Alan and Micah for the chance to win monthly prizes and shoutouts on the pod. It’s FREE to join and as a member, you’ll get access to exclusive tips from Fantasy Football Hub including AI-powered team ratings, transfer tips, and expert team reveals to help you climb the table - plus access to our private Slack community. Sign up today at therestisfootball.com https://therestisfootball.com/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=episode_description&utm_content=link_cta For more Goalhanger Podcasts, head to www.goalhanger.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Arsenal Top At Christmas, Rogers On A Rampage & Referees Under Fire

Arsenal remain top of the Premier League at Christmas, but with Manchester City starting to look back to their best, have they taken the mantle as favourites for the title? Morgan Rogers scored two brilliant goals as Aston Villa made it ten wins in a row in all competitions. Does this season now look like a three-horse title race? Gary, Alan and Micah also debate a controversial weekend of refereeing, asking whether this is the worst standard the Premier League has seen, and if the introduction of VAR has played a part in the decline. The Rest Is Football is powered by Fuse Energy. To sign up and for terms and conditions, visit fuseenergy.com/football. Join The Players Lounge: The official fantasy football club of The Rest Is Football. It’s time to take on Gary, Alan and Micah for the chance to win monthly prizes and shoutouts on the pod. It’s FREE to join and as a member, you’ll get access to exclusive tips from Fantasy Football Hub including AI-powered team ratings, transfer tips, and expert team reveals to help you climb the table - plus access to our private Slack community. Sign up today at therestisfootball.com https://therestisfootball.com/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=episode_description&utm_content=link_cta For more Goalhanger Podcasts, head to www.goalhanger.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Quiz: Champions League Top Goalscorers

How many of the Top 10 all time Champions League goalscorers can Alan and Micah name without mistake? Who is the surprise inclusion on the list? Why was Micah left to rue making up a new rule to allow them to get bonus points? Gary is quiz master once again as he tests the guys knowledge on the most lethal finishers in Europe’s elite competition, with a few rants and outbursts along the way! The Rest Is Football is powered by Fuse Energy. To sign up and for terms and conditions, visit fuseenergy.com/football Join The Players Lounge: The official fantasy football club of The Rest Is Football. It’s time to take on Gary, Alan and Micah for the chance to win monthly prizes and shoutouts on the pod. It’s FREE to join and as a member, you’ll get access to exclusive tips from Fantasy Football Hub including AI-powered team ratings, transfer tips, and expert team reveals to help you climb the table - plus access to our private Slack community. Sign up today at therestisfootball.com https://therestisfootball.com/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=episode_description&utm_content=link_cta For more Goalhanger Podcasts, head to www.goalhanger.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Player Ultimatums, Superstitions & Fantasy Football Standings

How do players react when one of their teammates issues an ultimatum to force a move away from the club? Is it easy to forgive, or does it permanently damage relationships in the dressing room? The guys also dive into football superstitions — what rituals did they cling to during goal droughts, and did doubt start to creep in when the goals weren’t coming? Gary, Alan and Micah round things off by comparing their Fantasy Football performances, who’s on top right now? They also discuss The Rest Is Football’s particularly high ranking The Rest Is Football is powered by Fuse Energy. To sign up and for terms and conditions, visit fuseenergy.com/football. Introducing Save Your WayTM from Hotels.com. Get instant savings now with Member Prices, or bank as rewards for later. Learn more at hotels.com/product/save-your-way-uk/ Join The Players Lounge: The official fantasy football club of The Rest Is Football. It’s time to take on Gary, Alan and Micah for the chance to win monthly prizes and shoutouts on the pod.  It’s FREE to join and as a member, you’ll get access to exclusive tips from Fantasy Football Hub including AI-powered team ratings, transfer tips, and expert team reveals to help you climb the table - plus access to our private Slack community. Sign up today at therestisfootball.com https://therestisfootball.com/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=episode_description&utm_content=link_cta For more Goalhanger Podcasts, head to www.goalhanger.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Bellingham’s Best Position, Raphinha Back With A Bang & Griezmann’s Brilliant Winner

Are Real Madrid still struggling to find the right balance, and is Jude Bellingham being played out of position? Despite an away win at Alavés, questions remain over the performance, and frustration is growing among some Madridistas with Xabi Alonso. Raphinha is finally back after an injury-hit start to the season, and he made an immediate impact with two goals to keep Barcelona four points clear at the top of La Liga. Seven straight wins for the Blaugrana, can anyone catch them? Gary and Alex also break down Antoine Griezmann’s brilliant winner as Atlético Madrid stay in touch with the title race Join The Players Lounge: The official fantasy football club of The Rest Is Football. It’s time to take on Gary, Alan and Micah for the chance to win monthly prizes and shoutouts on the pod. It’s FREE to join and as a member, you’ll get access to exclusive tips from Fantasy Football Hub including AI-powered team ratings, transfer tips, and expert team reveals to help you climb the table - plus access to our private Slack community. Sign up today at: therestisfootball.com https://therestisfootball.com/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=episode_description&utm_content=link_cta For more Goalhanger Podcasts, head to www.goalhanger.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Derby Delight For Sunderland, City Are Back & Maresca Vs The Owners

Sunderland make it seven wins from seven as they beat fierce local rivals Newcastle in the derby. Are Eddie Howe’s problems growing as he tries to fit Nick Woltemade into Newcastle’s established system, and do they lack the energy that drove last season’s success? Manchester City look like they’re finally back — but just how much of that revival is down to the man in form, Phil F***ing Foden**? Enzo Maresca raises eyebrows with a cryptic post-match interview that hints at a lack of backing from the ownership. Is support behind the scenes starting to crack? Plus, Gary, Alan and Micah debate Arsenal’s struggles to break down low blocks and ask whether the Gunners have become too reliant on Bukayo Saka The Rest Is Football is powered by Fuse Energy. To sign up and for terms and conditions, visit fuseenergy.com/football.Join The Players Lounge: The official fantasy football club of The Rest Is Football. It’s time to take on Gary, Alan and Micah for the chance to win monthly prizes and shoutouts on the pod. It’s FREE to join and as a member, you’ll get access to exclusive tips from Fantasy Football Hub including AI-powered team ratings, transfer tips, and expert team reveals to help you climb the table - plus access to our private Slack community. Sign up today at therestisfootball.com. https://therestisfootball.com/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=episode_description&utm_content=link_cta For more Goalhanger Podcasts, head to www.goalhanger.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Man City Heap Pressure On Real Madrid, Madueke’s Screamer & Slot’s Big Win

Is Xabi Alonso’s Jon under serious threat after City come from behind to beat Madrid? Noni Madueke’s stunner set Arsenal on their way to a sixth win in six, but did he really mean it? How important was it that Liverpool beat Inter Milan after Arne Slot left Mo Salah out of the squad? Gary, Alan and Micah also discuss a good point away at Leverkusen for Newcastle, as Alan is left dreaming of what might have been. The Rest Is Football is powered by Fuse Energy. To sign up and for terms and conditions, visit fuseenergy.com/football.Join The Players Lounge: The official fantasy football club of The Rest Is Football. It’s time to take on Gary, Alan and Micah for the chance to win monthly prizes and shoutouts on the pod. It’s FREE to join and as a member, you’ll get access to exclusive tips from Fantasy Football Hub including AI-powered team ratings, transfer tips, and expert team reveals to help you climb the table - plus access to our private Slack community. Sign up today at therestisfootball.com https://therestisfootball.com/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=episode_description&utm_content=link_cta For more Goalhanger Podcasts, head to www.goalhanger.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

ERLING HAALAND: EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW

What was Alan’s message to Erling after he beat his record for getting to 100 Premier League goals? Why was the Norwegian superstar particularly fired up for this season, by people not talking about him over the summer? Why has Erling started his own YouTube channel and what is he hoping to showcase on it? Gary and Alan travel up to Manchester to speak to Erling Haaland and celebrate his achievement of scoring 100 Premier League goals in record time. They get into a deep dive on the art of goalscoring, with more than 1,000 goals between the trio. The Rest Is Football is powered by Fuse Energy. To sign up and for terms and conditions, visit fuseenergy.com/football Whether it’s the same roast every year or something new that somehow becomes tradition overnight - Tesco’s food helps make every Christmas feel like Christmas. Shop Tesco food this Christmas, either in-store or online. Introducing Save Your WayTM from Hotels.com. Get instant savings now with Member Prices, or bank as rewards for later. Learn more at hotels.com/product/save-your-way-uk/ Join The Players Lounge: The official fantasy football club of The Rest Is Football. It’s time to take on Gary, Alan and Micah for the chance to win monthly prizes and shoutouts on the pod. It’s FREE to join and as a member, you’ll get access to exclusive tips from Fantasy Football Hub including AI-powered team ratings, transfer tips, and expert team reveals to help you climb the table - plus access to our private Slack community. Sign up today at: therestisfootball.com https://therestisfootball.com/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=episode_description&utm_content=link_cta For more Goalhanger Podcasts, head to www.goalhanger.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Bedlam At The Bernabeu, Barça’s Best No. 9 & Are Villarreal Title Contenders?

A loss at home and three red cards, will Xabi Alonso even make it to the end of the week? Reports in Spain suggest he could be out the door if Real Madrid don’t beat Manchester City in the Champions League. Can he turn things around for Los Blancos?  After Ferran Torres’ hat-trick vs Real Betis, who is Barcelona’s first choice Number 9? Gary & Alex also break down Villarreal’s impressive six-game winning streak in La Liga and discuss whether the Yellow Submarine are genuine title contenders Join The Players Lounge: The official fantasy football club of The Rest Is Football. It’s time to take on Gary, Alan and Micah for the chance to win monthly prizes and shoutouts on the pod. It’s FREE to join and as a member, you’ll get access to exclusive tips from Fantasy Football Hub including AI-powered team ratings, transfer tips, and expert team reveals to help you climb the table - plus access to our private Slack community. Sign up today at: therestisfootball.com https://therestisfootball.com/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=episode_description&utm_content=link_cta For more Goalhanger Podcasts, head to www.goalhanger.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Salah or Slot? Villa in the Title Race & One Of The Best Days Of Micah’s Life

Has Mo Salah just issued Liverpool an ultimatum with his post-match antics — is it him or Arne Slot? And if so, who’s really in the wrong? After Aston Villa’s huge win over league leaders Arsenal, the gap tightens once again. Is it finally time to talk about Villa as genuine title contenders? Micah also joins the pod from Abu Dhabi after watching Lando Norris win the Formula One World Championship, what was it that made it one of the best days of his life? The Rest Is Football is powered by Fuse Energy. To sign up and for terms and conditions, visit fuseenergy.com/football.Join The Players Lounge: The official fantasy football club of The Rest Is Football. It’s time to take on Gary, Alan and Micah for the chance to win monthly prizes and shoutouts on the pod.  It’s FREE to join and as a member, you’ll get access to exclusive tips from Fantasy Football Hub including AI-powered team ratings, transfer tips, and expert team reveals to help you climb the table - plus access to our private Slack community. Sign up today at therestisfootball.com https://therestisfootball.com/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=episode_description&utm_content=link_cta For more Goalhanger Podcasts, head to www.goalhanger.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices