Advertise on podcast: The Cooligans

Is James Rodríguez really headed to Minnesota United? In one of the strangest transfer rumors we’ve ever seen, the Cooligans unpack how a global superstar could end up in MLS, what it would mean for Minnesota, and whether James still has enough left to move the needle in the league — or if this is destined to be pure chaos. Next, we revisit the USMNT hype machine and ask some uncomfortable questions. Gio Reyna, Yunus Musah, Gianluca Busio, Jordan Morris — all players who once felt like sure things. So what happened? We break down why their trajectories have stalled, what went wrong at club level, and whether there’s still time for a second act. Finally, we react to the wildest stories from around world soccer. From Vinícius Jr.’s girlfriend revealing uncomfortable details involving Real Madrid, to Gabriel Barbosa’s tense encounter with fans, to Cristiano Ronaldo’s “missing” posters popping up in Saudi Arabia — it’s another reminder that no sport delivers chaos quite like football.   Timestamps: (6:30) – James Rodriguez’s shock transfer to Minnesota United (21:30) - USMNT rising stars that have now faded (49:30) – Vini Jr’s girlfriend’s weird ointment story (53:30) – Reacting to other news around the soccer world Subscribe to The Cooligans on your favorite podcast app: 🎧 Apple Podcasts 🎧 Spotify 🖥️ YouTube 📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network or yahoosports.tv

Legendary commentator Derek Rae joins Christian and Alexis for a wide-ranging conversation on soccer, culture, and storytelling. From his upbringing in Scotland to his deep connection with German football, Derek explains how his love for languages and history shaped his broadcasting career—and why getting players’ names right is about far more than phonetics. He shares a powerful story about the real impact correct pronunciation can have on players and their families. Derek also takes listeners behind the scenes of how he became the voice of EA FC, revealing what the audition process was like, how the opportunity came together, and what it means to be recognized worldwide through a video game. Along the way, he reflects on the evolution of soccer media, iconic broadcasting moments, and the responsibility that comes with being a trusted voice of the sport. Finally, the conversation dives into the global game itself. Derek breaks down the cultural differences between MLS and European leagues, explains why Germany has become such fertile ground for American players, and offers thoughtful insight into the unique identity of soccer fandom in the United States. It’s a smart, funny, and deeply human conversation with one of the most respected voices in the game.   Timestamps: (2:00) – Why pronouncing player names correctly is important to Derek Rae (10:45) - Derek Rae’s soccer origin story (15:00) – How Europeans currently perceive MLS (23:45) – Is Germany the best place for Americans to develop? (35:00) – Is 2026 the year where the US becomes a real soccer country? (39:00) - How Derek Rae became the voice of EA FC Subscribe to The Cooligans on your favorite podcast app: 🎧 Apple Podcasts 🎧 Spotify 🖥️ YouTube 📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network or yahoosports.tv

Christian Polanco and Christine Cupo kick things off by tiering the Champions League field, separating the favorites from the contenders, dark horses, and pretenders. Who’s built to go the distance, which clubs are being overrated, and who could surprise Europe this season? Next, the guys react to Anthony Gordon’s recent comments throwing shade at the Premier League. Has the league’s dominance made it predictable and boring, or is this just another case of fans confusing quality with excitement? Christian and Christine debate whether the “best league in the world” label still holds up. Finally, the conversation turns to the USWNT as Emma Hayes officially ushers in a new era. With a clear vision, fresh energy, and evolving tactics, the guys ask whether this team could reach an even higher level of dominance than previous generations. Timestamps: (4:30) – Recapping Champions League Matchday 8 excitement (9:00) –  Listing Champions League Pretenders (19:30) – Champions League contenders (28:30) – Champions League favorites (31:00) - Reacting to Anthony Gordon’s comments on PL’s lost excitement (43:30) - Emma Hayes ushering in USWNT’s new era? Subscribe to The Cooligans on your favorite podcast app: 🎧 Apple Podcasts 🎧 Spotify 🖥️ YouTube 📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network or yahoosports.tv

Ricardo Pepi could be on the move again — but is Fulham the right next step for the USMNT striker? Christian and Alexis break down what a Premier League switch would mean for Pepi’s development and confidence. Plus, they shine a light on Pellegrino Matarazzo’s impressive rise at Real Sociedad and why his success in La Liga matters for American managers abroad. Michael Carrick continues to impress on the touchline, but is he truly ready to become Manchester United’s full-time head coach? The guys debate Carrick’s tactical growth, leadership style, and whether United’s chaotic environment would help or hinder his evolution as a manager. The NWSL locks in one of its biggest stars as Trinity Rodman stays put — but what does that decision say about the league’s future? Christian and Alexis discuss player power, league ambition, and whether keeping top talent at home strengthens the NWSL’s global standing or limits its stars’ potential. Timestamps: (9:00) – Right time for Ricardo Pepi to move to Fulham? (24:30) –  Pellegrino Matarazzo shines early at Real Sociedad (36:30) – Michael Carrick ready to be Man United’s full-time head coach? (48:30) – Trinity Rodman gets Paid! But what does it mean for the NWSL? Subscribe to The Cooligans on your favorite podcast app: 🎧 Apple Podcasts 🎧 Spotify 🖥️ YouTube 📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network or yahoosports.tv

Christian Polanco and Alexis Guerreros react to a chaotic AFCON final and ask the uncomfortable question: was the spectacle a nightmare for the sport? The guys break down what went wrong, what it says about tournament organization, and why moments like this matter for global soccer’s credibility. Christian and Alexis dive into viral territory as iShowSpeed encounters his first ultra fans in Algeria — and quickly learns that not every football culture rolls out the red carpet. Next, Copa90 creative director Shawn Francis joins the show to talk World Cup 2026 coming to America, why he’s completely flipped his stance on MLS’s new schedule, and what the league needs to do to actually become “cool.” The episode wraps with a look at Manchester City’s recent slump and whether Pep Guardiola has the answers to pull City out of their funk. Timestamps: (8:00) – Was the AFCON final an embarrassing moment for the sport? (26:30) –  IShowSpeed encounters Algerian ultras (34:15) – Shawn Francis joins The Cooligans (1:11:15) – Can Pep save Man City again or has he lost control? Subscribe to The Cooligans on your favorite podcast app: 🎧 Apple Podcasts 🎧 Spotify 🖥️ YouTube 📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network or yahoosports.tv

Christian Polanco and Alexis Guerreros break down the latest soccer headlines, starting with reports that USMNT striker Josh Sargent could be headed back to MLS with Toronto FC. Is it a smart career move or a major step backward for the American forward? The guys also react to rumors linking Timo Werner to the San Jose Earthquakes and debate whether the club made a massive mistake by failing to keep star winger Cristian Espinoza. Plus, with Chucky Lozano’s exit from San Diego seemingly inevitable, they discuss who the club should target as his replacement. Former Premier League defender Anton Ferdinand then joins the show to preview the West Ham vs. Tottenham derby and relive his legendary stoppage-time equalizer against Spurs in 2005. They also chat West Ham’s tough season so far and how the club can push forward to avoid relegation. Finally, the guys debate whether Real Madrid made a massive mistake by firing Xabi Alonso and what it means for the club’s future. Christian and Alexis wrap things up with their AFCON Final predictions as Senegal and Morocco prepare to battle for continental glory. Timestamps: (6:45) – Josh Sargent heading back to MLS? Smart move or disaster? (17:30) –  Timo Werner is headed to San Jose: redemption tour or flop? (30:15) – Chucky Lozano is leaving San Diego - who will replace him? (37:15) – Anton Ferdinand joins The Cooligans (57:00) - Xabi Alonso now Real Madrid’s biggest enemy? (1:10:00) - AFCON Final Predictions Subscribe to The Cooligans on your favorite podcast app: 🎧 Apple Podcasts 🎧 Spotify 🖥️ YouTube 📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network or yahoosports.tv

Xabi Alonso’s stunning exit from Real Madrid has sent shockwaves through the soccer world. Christian Polanco and Alexis Guerreros break down why the club pulled the trigger and whether former Spain boss Luis Enrique would be the perfect revenge hire. Is this another chapter in Madrid’s ruthless managerial history, or a necessary reset for a struggling giant? NBA star and die-hard Arsenal supporter Josh Richardson joins the Cooligans to talk all things soccer fandom. From becoming a Gunners fan through FIFA to soaking in the football culture of Miami, Josh explains how the city shaped his love for the game. Plus, the ultimate South Florida debate: Who’s the bigger celebrity in Miami — LeBron James or Lionel Messi? The boys also discuss two major storylines shaping American soccer. With soccer officially overtaking baseball as the third most popular sport in the U.S., how can MLS and U.S. Soccer capitalize on this momentum? And with Ricardo Pepi suffering a broken arm, could this injury impact his chances of making the 2026 World Cup squad?   Timestamps: (6:30) – Xabi Alonso leaves Real Madrid! Who should replace him? (21:40) –  NBA veteran Josh Richardson joins The Cooligans (50:30) – Soccer overtakes Baseball in America: now what? (1:01:00) – Does Ricardo Pepi’s newest injury endanger his World Cup chances? Subscribe to The Cooligans on your favorite podcast app: 🎧 Apple Podcasts 🎧 Spotify 🖥️ YouTube 📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network or yahoosports.tv

Christian Polanco and Alexis Guerreros kick things off with reports that Weston McKennie could leave Juventus this summer. Where should the USMNT midfielder go next, and what kind of club best suits his skill set ahead of 2026? The guys also reveal their USMNT “secret weapon” players who could surprise their way onto the World Cup roster, with Alexis highlighting James Sands and Sebastian Berhalter, while Christian makes the case for Max Arfsten and Brenden Aaronson. Next, Christian and Alexis are joined by Lawrence Cann, founder of Street Soccer USA, for a powerful and emotional interview about how the game can change lives. Lawrence shares the personal story of losing his home as a child — and how soccer, community, and the support of a coach helped put him on a new path. The conversation dives into grassroots soccer, access, and why building opportunity at the community level matters now more than ever. Finally, the boys close out with Rapido Reactions from across the soccer world: their thoughts on a leaked USMNT jersey, a bizarre viral moment featuring an Algerian fan standing frozen like a statue, Gabon canceling their entire national team, a wild goal celebration that nearly ended in disaster, and their AFCON quarterfinal predictions.   Timestamps: (8:00) – Where should Weston Mckennie go this summer? (18:30) – USMNT’s secret weapons for the 2026 World Cup (28:30) – Founder of Street Soccer USA joins The Cooligans (52:00) – Rapido Reactions: USMNT jersey leak, AFCON headlines & more Subscribe to The Cooligans on your favorite podcast app: 🎧 Apple Podcasts 🎧 Spotify 🖥️ YouTube 📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network or yahoosports.tv

Christian Polanco and Alexis Guerreros react to breaking news as Manchester United part ways with Ruben Amorim just 14 months after his appointment. Why has the job at Old Trafford become so unstable? Is being head coach at Manchester United now an impossible task? And does the club need to return to hiring traditional managers instead of head coaches? Then, Christian and Alexis are joined by NWSL and USWNT legend Ali Krieger to talk all things women’s soccer. They break down the growing issues within the NWSL and why the league’s salary cap must evolve for it to remain competitive on a global level. Ali also discusses her work with the Dragonfly Collective, a charity she partners with to support mothers who give up their children for adoption. Later, the boys react to another shocking managerial departure, as Wilfried Nancy’s reign at Celtic ends after just 33 days. What went wrong so quickly? And should Nancy consider a return to MLS?   Timestamps: (9:30) – Man United sack Ruben Amorim: Is coaching United impossible? (28:00) – Ali Krieger joins The Cooligans (42:00) – Ali on her work with the Dragonfly Collective (1:00:45) – Wilfried Nancy leaves Celtic: Should he return to MLS? Subscribe to The Cooligans on your favorite podcast app: 🎧 Apple Podcasts 🎧 Spotify 🖥️ YouTube 📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network or yahoosports.tv

Christian Polanco and Alexis Guerreros react to Pellegrino Matarazzo becoming the first American coach in La Liga. Can Matarazzo succeed at Real Sociedad, and what would a successful stint mean for his future and U.S. Soccer’s future? Then, Christian and Alexis bring on American film producer and soccer fanatic Franklin Leonard to discuss English media bias in soccer and whether England is ready to accept a Black superstar on the national team. Later, they also chat about Leonard’s soccer fandom, the direction of the film industry, and his recent foray into politics.   Timestamps: (10:30) – Can Pellegrino Matarazzo succeed in La Liga? (30:00) – Franklin Leonard joins The Cooligans (42:00) – Is there media bias against Black soccer players? (52:00) – Diving into the ever-changing film industry Subscribe to The Cooligans on your favorite podcast app: 🎧 Apple Podcasts 🎧 Spotify 🖥️ YouTube 📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network or yahoosports.tv

Christian Polanco and Alexis Guerreros sit down with Premier League and MLS legend Jermain Defoe for a wide-ranging conversation on one of the most memorable careers in modern soccer. Defoe reflects on his iconic five-goal performance for Tottenham Hotspur, what it meant to hear Spurs fans chanting his name before his emotional return to the club, and the toughest defenders he battled in the Premier League. He also shares the surreal story of receiving a phone call from Drake ahead of his move to Toronto FC, and gives his take on which MLS players he believes could have succeeded in Europe. From Premier League glory to MLS insight, this is a must-listen interview with one of England’s most prolific strikers.   Timestamps: (1:00) – Jermain Defoe joins The Cooligans (6:00) – Memorable moments from his time with Toronto FC (11:30) – Breaking down Jermain’s legendary Premier League career (37:15) – Breaking down his decision to join Toronto (41:00) – Not being at Tottenham for the 2008 Carling Cup win (46:30) – MLS players that could’ve played in Europe Subscribe to The Cooligans on your favorite podcast app: 🎧 Apple Podcasts 🎧 Spotify 🖥️ YouTube 📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network or yahoosports.tv

Christian Polanco and Alexis Guerreros share their 2026 Major League Soccer early overreactions. Who will be the biggest disappointment? Will Inter Miami repeat as MLS Cup champions? And can anyone compete with Messi for MVP? Next, Christian chats with Danny Navarro, aka Travel Futbol Fan, ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Danny shares his best tips and tricks on how to make the World Cup a little more affordable. Later, Danny also tells us what to expect in the USA next summer as the World Cup comes stateside.   Timestamps: (9:30) – Who Will Be MLS’ Biggest Disappointment in 2026? (15:00) – Biggest Offseason Signing (19:00) – 2026 MLS MVP Predictions (21:00) – 2026 MLS Surprise of the Season (24:15) – Predicting the 2026 MLS Cup Winner (28:30) – Danny Navarro Joins The Cooligans Subscribe to The Cooligans on your favorite podcast app: 🎧 Apple Podcasts 🎧 Spotify 🖥️ YouTube 📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network or yahoosports.tv

Christian Polanco and Alexis Guerreros react to Mohamed Salah’s rumored potential move to San Diego FC. Would Mo Salah be the biggest signing in MLS history? And why might San Diego FC’s ownership convince him to choose MLS over Saudi Arabia? Next, Christian and Alexis chat on the subway with New York City’s mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani. They talk all things soccer, including why Zohran is pushing back against FIFA over skyrocketing ticket prices for the 2026 World Cup. They also discuss the USMNT’s World Cup group and his biggest soccer memories as a fan. Later, the boys break down an impressive Champions League week for American players. Folarin Balogun scores in his third consecutive Champions League match, and Weston McKennie shines against Pafos FC for Juventus. Are the USMNT’s key figures peaking at the right time?   Timestamps: (7:30) – Mo Salah Headed to MLS? (23:00) – Zohran Mamdani Joins The Cooligans (35:00) – Folarin Balogun Scores Again in the Champions League (38:30) – Weston McKennie Shines Against Pafos (42:00) – Christian Pulisic Continues to Dominate in Serie A (45:15) – Can Xabi Alonso Save His Job at Real Madrid? Subscribe to The Cooligans on your favorite podcast app: 🎧 Apple Podcasts 🎧 Spotify 🖥️ YouTube 📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network or yahoosports.tv

Christian Polanco and Alexis Guerreros react live to Inter Miami and Lionel Messi’s 3–1 victory over the Vancouver Whitecaps in the MLS Cup Final. The boys break down Messi’s two-assist performance en route to capturing his first MLS title and discuss what this means for his legacy in Major League Soccer. Then, Christian and Alexis look back at the MLS careers of Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba as they play their final match as MLS champions. They also break down Rodrigo De Paul’s importance to Inter Miami throughout the entire season, including his impact in the championship match. Finally, they recap the entire Major League Soccer season as it comes to an end — including their favorite moments and their pick for playoff MVP. (0:30) – MLS Cup Final Match Recap (5:00) – Player of the Game: Lionel Messi (16:30) – Highlighting Rodrigo De Paul’s Impact This Season (21:00) – Looking Back on Busquets and Alba’s Careers (38:00) – MLS Season Recap Subscribe to The Cooligans on your favorite podcast app: 🎧 Apple Podcasts 🎧 Spotify 🖥️ YouTube 📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network or yahoosports.tv

Christian Polanco and Alexis Guerreros give their live reaction to the World Cup Draw. The boys discuss the USMNT’s group — which includes Australia and Paraguay — and how far the Stars and Stripes can go next summer. They also look at the draw overall and reveal their pick for the “Group of Death.” Then, Christian and Alexis break down the tournament’s biggest juggernauts, including England, France, Portugal, Spain, and Argentina, and share who they think is primed for a deep run. They also compare Ronaldo and Messi’s legacies ahead of what is likely each of their final World Cups. Finally, they reveal their dark horses for the tournament and predict who will hoist the World Cup in July. They also discuss how far the USMNT will go — and what would qualify as a successful tournament for the Red, White, and Blue.   (2:00) – USMNT World Cup Group Preview (16:30) – Examining Each Potential “Group of Death” (25:15) – Which Juggernaut Is Primed to Win It All? (36:00) – Ronaldo vs. Messi: One Last Time? (41:00) – Who’s the World Cup Dark Horse? (49:00) – Predicting the 2026 World Cup Winner (51:30) – Breaking Down the Remaining Six WC Spots (56:00) – How Far Will the USMNT Go in 2026? Subscribe to The Cooligans on your favorite podcast app: 🎧 Apple Podcasts 🎧 Spotify 🖥️ YouTube 📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network or yahoosports.tv