Cub Scout Clasico

From The Totally Football Show with James Richardson The Athletic

Jimbo is joined by Rory Smith, Duncan Alexander and Adrian Clarke on the pod where, in spite of the international break, there’s plenty to discuss.

Mike Ashley’s reign at Newcastle looks to be coming to an end. But the Saudi Arabian-backed takeover raises many issues. Is this the natural conclusion to the total worship of money in English football?

Italy’s world record breaking unbeaten run is over as Spain beat them 2-1 in the Nations League semi-finals, inspired by 17-year-old Gavi as the future looks bright for the Spanish. And for Barca?

Arguably the biggest World Cup qualifier this weekend sees Scotland take on Israel at a packed Hampden. Laura Brannan tells us more.

Duncan brings his stats of the season so far. Are we witnessing the most lenient campaign in Premier League history?

Plus Claudio Ranieri returns to English football. And Duncan and Adrian relive their days in the cub scouts.

RUNNING ORDER:

• PART 1: Newcastle takeover imminent (04m 00s)

• PART 2: Italy 1-2 Spain (22m 00s)

• PART 3: Duncan’s stats of the season so far (38m 00s)

• PART 4: Scotland v Israel preview with Laura Brannan (48m 00s)

• PART 5: The odds with Paddy Power (56m 00s)

• PART 6: Ranieri returns to English football with James Horncastle & Gab Marcotti (58m 00s)

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• theathletic.com/totally