The Cooligans react to Xabi Alonso’s firing at Real Madrid, debate Luis Enrique as a potential replacement, welcome Josh Richardson for a soccer fandom deep dive, analyze soccer’s rise in America, and discuss Ricardo Pepi’s injury and its 2026 World Cup implications.
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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?
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Category: General Sports
