Ballon d’Or glitz, Carabao Cup drama and an EFL roundup: Football Weekly - podcast

Hugo Ekitiké's attempt to honor Lionel Messi by mimicking one of his famous celebrations backfired during a match, leading to an early exit from the game. This incident highlights the pressures young players face when trying to emulate their idols, and it raises questions about the balance between inspiration and performance. Fans and analysts are left wondering how this will affect Ekitiké's confidence and future in the sport.

Ousmane Dembélé has made history by becoming the sixth Frenchman to win the prestigious Ballon d'Or, a recognition that highlights his exceptional talent and contributions to football. This achievement not only cements his status among the greats but also inspires young athletes around the world. Winning the Ballon d'Or alongside the Champions League and World Cup showcases the pinnacle of success in the sport, making this moment significant for both Dembélé and French football.

Former Newcastle United defender Steve Howey suggests that manager Eddie Howe may avoid risking key players in the upcoming Carabao Cup match against Bradford City. He emphasizes that upsets can happen in cup competitions, highlighting the unpredictable nature of football. This insight is significant as it reflects the strategic decisions managers must make to balance competition and player safety.

Ousmane Dembélé has achieved a remarkable milestone by winning the Ballon d'Or, joining an elite group of only ten players who have also won the World Cup and Champions League. This victory is particularly significant as it marks a triumphant turnaround in his career, showcasing his resilience and talent after facing challenges. Dembélé's success not only highlights his individual skills but also elevates the prestige of PSG, making this a momentous occasion in football history.

Pep Guardiola has announced that two promising Academy stars from Manchester City will play in the upcoming Carabao Cup match against Huddersfield Town. This is an exciting opportunity for the young talents to showcase their skills on a bigger stage, reflecting the club's commitment to developing homegrown players. Fans are eager to see how these youngsters perform and contribute to the team's success.

Former Wales striker Iwan Roberts is baffled by the notion that Wrexham's manager Phil Parkinson is under pressure, especially after the team's impressive Carabao Cup victory over Reading. With Nathan Broadhead scoring twice, Wrexham has advanced to the fourth round for the first time in decades. This win adds to their recent success, marking four victories in their last five matches across all competitions, including notable league wins against Norwich City and Millwall. This positive momentum is crucial for the team's confidence and aspirations.

David Moyes faced criticism after making seven changes to the Everton lineup, leading to a disappointing exit from the Carabao Cup. This decision, made just days after a tough match against Liverpool, raises questions about team strategy and depth. Fans are concerned about the implications for the season ahead, as early cup exits can affect morale and momentum.

Alexander Isak has expressed his readiness to contribute to Liverpool's success following the suspension of Ekitike. While the team secured a spot in the fourth round of the Carabao Cup with a win over Southampton, the match was marred by concerns surrounding player fitness. Isak's willingness to step up is crucial as Liverpool navigates this challenging period, highlighting the importance of teamwork and resilience in competitive sports.

Alexander Isak is feeling fit and ready to contribute to Liverpool after scoring his first goal for the club in a 2-1 victory over Southampton in the Carabao Cup. This is significant as it marks a positive start for Isak, who faced a summer filled with transfer speculation. His performance not only boosts his confidence but also adds depth to Liverpool's attacking options, making fans excited about what he can bring to the team.

Manchester City is set to kick off their Carabao Cup journey against Huddersfield Town at the Accu Stadium. After a strong performance, earning seven points from tough matches against Manchester United, Napoli, and Arsenal, City is expected to rotate their squad. This match is significant as it not only showcases City's depth but also gives Huddersfield a chance to prove themselves in a high-stakes environment, potentially boosting their promotion hopes.

Liverpool's Hugo Ekitike is facing criticism from manager Arne Slot for his 'selfish' goal celebration during the Carabao Cup match against Southampton. This incident has raised concerns about team dynamics and player behavior, especially as Ekitike could face a ban. Such actions can impact team morale and unity, making it crucial for players to celebrate responsibly.

Diego Gomez made history by becoming the first player in 18 years to score four goals in a single Carabao Cup match, leading Brighton to a stunning 6-0 victory over Barnsley. This remarkable achievement not only highlights Gomez's talent but also showcases Brighton's strong performance in the tournament, advancing them to the fourth round. Such milestones are significant as they inspire both players and fans, reinforcing the excitement around the competition.

Luka Doncic's impressive body transformation this summer has fans excited for the upcoming NBA season, especially for the Los Angeles Lakers. After slimming down, Doncic showcased his new physique during the 2025 EuroBasket, hinting at a more agile and dynamic performance on the court. This change not only boosts his personal game but also raises the Lakers' prospects as they aim for a successful season.

The upcoming release of EA FC 26 is generating excitement among soccer video game fans. With its release date approaching, players can look forward to new gameplay enhancements and various mode upgrades, marking a significant evolution from the FIFA series. This installment promises to deliver an engaging experience, making it a highly anticipated addition to the franchise.

The San Francisco 49ers are facing a tough season after losing defensive end Nick Bosa to injury, but there's a silver lining: they will gain extra salary cap space in 2026. This financial flexibility could help the team strengthen its roster in the future, making it a crucial development for their long-term strategy.

College football is experiencing a remarkable surge in TV ratings, especially in Week 4, where ABC stood out as a major player. The network showcased the most-watched games, with Miami's victory over Florida capturing the primetime spotlight and the thrilling Oklahoma vs. Auburn matchup dominating the afternoon. This trend highlights the growing popularity of college football, making it an exciting time for fans and networks alike.

Jayson Tatum of the Boston Celtics has firmly dismissed any talk of the team tanking, despite concerns about their performance in the upcoming season due to his injury. The Celtics have a rich history and are known for their resilience, making tanking an unlikely scenario for them. Tatum's confidence in the team's ability to compete, even in challenging times, is a positive sign for fans and highlights the franchise's commitment to maintaining a competitive edge.

The 2025 China Open is set to showcase top tennis talent, including stars like Jannik Sinner and Coco Gauff. This tournament is a significant event in the tennis calendar, attracting global attention and offering fans a chance to see their favorite players in action. With various streaming options available, it's easier than ever for fans to catch the matches live and experience the excitement of this prestigious tournament.