The Athletic FC Podcast The biggest changes in the Premier League so far
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Aug 23, 2025 Join football tactics expert Jon Mackenzie and analyst JJ Bull as they navigate the evolving landscape of the Premier League. They dive into key tactical changes among teams following the summer transfer window, especially Manchester City’s new strategies. The discussion highlights Liverpool’s evolving tactics and Spurs’ fresh approach under new management, blending aggression with structure. Additionally, they explore the infusion of young talent and its impact on club performances, offering an optimistic view for the season ahead.
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Forcing Play Wide To Protect The Middle
- City deliberately forced opponents wide to reduce central high-value attacks.
- That left exploitable space in wide channels which could be punished by better opponents.
Zonal Cover Creates Wide Vulnerabilities
- City's pressing is largely man-oriented but includes zonal cover from Nico González.
- That creates a free player out wide and questions whether wider weaknesses will be punished.
United Looked More In Control Early On
- Manchester United showed more possession and control against Arsenal compared with last season.
- JJ Bull credits new attacking arrivals for making United better at building and threatening from structured play.