The Double Pivot: Soccer analysis, analytics, and commentary

The Double Pivot: Soccer analysis, analytics, and commentary

Author: Mike Goodman and Michael Caley Language: English Episodes: 100
The Double Pivot: Soccer analysis, analytics, and commentary is where hosts Mike Goodman and Michael Caley break down the beautiful game with a blend of sharp tactical observation and a deep respect for the numbers. This isn't just a recap of who won; it's a conversation about how and why. Each episode digs into the mechanisms of modern soccer, from the strategic choices that define a manager's philosophy to the underlying data that reveals what the naked eye might miss. You'll hear thoughtful discussions on team shape, pressing triggers, and the value of different chance creation methods, all grounded in the hosts' analytical expertise. Goodman and Caley have a knack for making complex concepts accessible, whether they're examining a top-tier Premier League clash or highlighting intriguing patterns in a less-heralded league. Their commentary avoids easy narratives, instead offering a more nuanced and evidence-informed perspective on the week's biggest stories and most compelling matches. For anyone who wants to move beyond the standard punditry and understand the deeper layers of strategy and performance, this podcast provides a consistently engaging and insightful listen. Tune in for a smarter take on the global game.
Episodes
Tillman, USMNT, Williams, Barca [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 40:28
Summer means transfer talk but also maybe a teensy bit of international football. We discuss Malik Tillman to Bayer Leverkusen as well as Malik Tillman within the context of the USMNT. And we talk about Nico Williams to…
Chelsea Summer, Business [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 29:46
Chelsea has not yet completed most of the many transactions they're reported to be working on, but certainly it looks like another summer for churn. And our question is, why. Support the show
Private Equity and Football (Soccer?) with George Pearkes [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 58:23
With Crystal Palace in danger of missing out on Europe due to their ownership situation, and Chelsea being, you know, the way that they are, we felt it was time to talk to an actual expert about what private equity is an…
Thomas Frank [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 19:51
Tottenham are hiring Brentford's manager to replace Ange Postecoglou. Frank has been adaptable in his career with a few consistent tendencies, and we've got some takes. Support the show
Man City Summer, First Takes [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 39:04
Manchester City appear to be moving in the June window, with transfers for Rayan Cherki and Rayan Ait Nouri advancing, rumors around Tijjani Reijnders and Tino Livramento hanging around, and we look at a very strange sea…
Premier League Team of the Season Draft [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 46:16
We're playing team of the season but with a twist. We each have to draft a separate, reasonably coherent XI of the players who were the best and the most productive in the Premier League in the last season. Did we pick y…
Liverpool Summer Preview [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 35:32
It starts with the fullbacks. It appears very likely that with Trent leaving, Liverpool will sign both Jeremie Frimpong and Milos Kerkez. Both good players at good prices, but neither can replace the ball progression and…
Xabi Alonso and Trent Alexander-Arnold at Real Madrid [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 38:15
Real Madrid are reportedly making two major changes, dropping Carlo Ancelotti for Xabi Alonso and bringing in Liverpool's Trent Alexander-Arnold as a right sided defender and ludicrous passer. We discuss how all of this…
Inter - Barcelona Does It Again [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 35:51
The second leg was somehow even better than the first. We talk the stats and tactics from an incredible match, what we've learned about Hansi Flick and Barcelona this season, sing the praises of Inter Milan and Inzaghi,…
Mailbag: Theoretical Goals, Expected Points [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 37:01
We take a mailbag question on the math of goal difference, projecting points from goals, and what it tells us about the game of soccer. This one is for the nerds. Support the show