Dotun’s joined by David Cartlidge and Lars Sivertsen as one of this season’s biggest questions finally has an answer: Xabi Alonso will stay at Bayer Leverkusen next season. We contrast his fortunes with the dour ones of Thomas Tuchel, who is destined to angrily skulk through the exit door of yet another European powerhouse.

Elsewhere, David is particularly scathing of Juventus’ reluctance to replace the uninspiring Max Allegri with any of the suitable options available. Could Bologna boss Thiago Motta be the ideal fit? And we also look ahead to the Copa del Rey final this weekend, as Athletic Bilbao look to crown an impressive season with their first cup victory in four decades.

Ask us a question on Twitter, Instagram and TikTok, and email us here: otc@footballramble.com.

For ad-free shows, head over to our Patreon and subscribe: patreon.com/footballramble.

***Please take the time to rate and review us on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your pods. It means a great deal to the show and will make it easier for other potential listeners to find us. Thanks!***

On The Continent is your definitive podcast for European football. Subscribe for new podcasts every single week and throughout the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Two tales of two coaches