The Failed Footballer Archiv
31 Episoden
17 Minuten
OlanTekkers is the failed footballer, but he still knows ball. Or does he?
This week Mourinho is back in El Clásico after 13 years, and of course there was drama. Real Madrid got the job done despite having just 38% possession, and 10 shots to Barcelona’s 18. Mbappe the dictator took his El Clásico tally to eight goals in seven games. We get into Mourinho’s winning return, the tackle he reckons deserved a red, and why ref cam is the one thing modern football has given us that's good.
Then it’s over to the Premier League, where Spurs finally decided to turn up against Chelsea, winning at Stamford Bridge for just the second time in their last 33 visits. Things are considerably worse at Manchester United: they're in 16th, one point above the relegation zone and winless in eight games in all competitions. Thirteen years and 10 managers after Sir Alex Ferguson, Mourinho still has the best points-per-game record of any permanent post-Fergie United boss. Maybe the Special One was right all along?
Plus, the A-League is absolutely humming with 19 goals across six games. Sydney FC dig deep for another win, the Wanderers put five past reigning champions Auckland, we ask whether pre-game tunnel interviews are a step too far, celebrate refs actually booking players for diving, and rewind to that infamous 2012 Brisbane Roar v Perth Glory Grand Final.
The Failed Footballer is an iHeart podcast. Watch, listen and discover more podcasts, playlists and live radio on the FREE iHeart App.
Olan may have failed as a footballer. So do 99.9 of players who try and make it, but how many of them can say they got a podcast out of it? Here you'll get unqualified takes from Olan, and expert commentary from football legends who actually made it. All the goals, all the drama, all the ammo for your group chat from football's biggest leagues around the world.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week Mourinho is back in El Clásico after 13 years, and of course there was drama. Real Madrid got the job done despite having just 38% possession, and 10 shots to Barcelona’s 18. Mbappe the dictator took his El Clásico tally to eight goals in seven games. We get into Mourinho’s winning return, the tackle he reckons deserved a red, and why ref cam is the one thing modern football has given us that's good.
Then it’s over to the Premier League, where Spurs finally decided to turn up against Chelsea, winning at Stamford Bridge for just the second time in their last 33 visits. Things are considerably worse at Manchester United: they're in 16th, one point above the relegation zone and winless in eight games in all competitions. Thirteen years and 10 managers after Sir Alex Ferguson, Mourinho still has the best points-per-game record of any permanent post-Fergie United boss. Maybe the Special One was right all along?
Plus, the A-League is absolutely humming with 19 goals across six games. Sydney FC dig deep for another win, the Wanderers put five past reigning champions Auckland, we ask whether pre-game tunnel interviews are a step too far, celebrate refs actually booking players for diving, and rewind to that infamous 2012 Brisbane Roar v Perth Glory Grand Final.
The Failed Footballer is an iHeart podcast. Watch, listen and discover more podcasts, playlists and live radio on the FREE iHeart App.
Olan may have failed as a footballer. So do 99.9 of players who try and make it, but how many of them can say they got a podcast out of it? Here you'll get unqualified takes from Olan, and expert commentary from football legends who actually made it. All the goals, all the drama, all the ammo for your group chat from football's biggest leagues around the world.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
45 Minuten
The A-League is back, and OlanTekkers reckons anyone saying it’s dead clearly wasn’t at the Sydney Derby. The atmosphere was unreal, even if the football didn’t quite live up to it. Olan and Kat Haddad break down the opening round, the Sydney Derby stalemate, the chaos of the F3 Derby and why the derbies matter so much for the league.
Then it’s over to the Premier League and the mess at Manchester United. Is Michael Carrick really the man to turn things around, or are the problems much bigger than the manager? Later, Western Sydney Wanderers midfielder Isabella Chidiac joins Olan to talk about her football journey, playing with boys growing up, earning a full US college scholarship worth $150k a year, balancing elite football with a pre-med degree, and why breaking into professional football as an international player isn’t as simple as being good enough.
She also opens up about returning to Australia, the financial realities of the women’s game, her Matildas dream and the motivation that keeps her chasing it.
In this episode:
00:00 The A-League is back
01:45 Sydney Derby review
04:58 The F3 Derby delivers
09:50 A-League Women kicks off
10:09 What’s gone wrong at Manchester United?
16:43 Should clubs give managers more time?
18:40 Isabella joins the pod
19:16 Starting out playing with the boys
22:10 Why Isabella chose US college football
23:56 The $88k-a-year full scholarship
24:31 Life as a student athlete in America
26:24 How good is US college football?
29:17 Trying to turn pro after college
31:29 Returning to Western Sydney
32:14 The financial reality of the A-League Women
33:18 Chasing a Matildas call-up
34:54 Australia vs America
38:49 Isabella’s advice to young footballers
40:57 Dealing with rejection and staying motivated
41:45 Ronaldo vs Messi
43:30 When should Ronaldo have retired?
44:32 Outro
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Then it’s over to the Premier League and the mess at Manchester United. Is Michael Carrick really the man to turn things around, or are the problems much bigger than the manager? Later, Western Sydney Wanderers midfielder Isabella Chidiac joins Olan to talk about her football journey, playing with boys growing up, earning a full US college scholarship worth $150k a year, balancing elite football with a pre-med degree, and why breaking into professional football as an international player isn’t as simple as being good enough.
She also opens up about returning to Australia, the financial realities of the women’s game, her Matildas dream and the motivation that keeps her chasing it.
In this episode:
00:00 The A-League is back
01:45 Sydney Derby review
04:58 The F3 Derby delivers
09:50 A-League Women kicks off
10:09 What’s gone wrong at Manchester United?
16:43 Should clubs give managers more time?
18:40 Isabella joins the pod
19:16 Starting out playing with the boys
22:10 Why Isabella chose US college football
23:56 The $88k-a-year full scholarship
24:31 Life as a student athlete in America
26:24 How good is US college football?
29:17 Trying to turn pro after college
31:29 Returning to Western Sydney
32:14 The financial reality of the A-League Women
33:18 Chasing a Matildas call-up
34:54 Australia vs America
38:49 Isabella’s advice to young footballers
40:57 Dealing with rejection and staying motivated
41:45 Ronaldo vs Messi
43:30 When should Ronaldo have retired?
44:32 Outro
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
30 Minuten
He was let go from an A-League team after playing in a Grand Final, literally told in the airport on the way home he no longer had a place. He then went on to play at three World Cups. His teammate Jackson Irvine says he's the most underrated Socceroo of all time, and he's now one of the most experienced leaders at Melbourne City FC. Aziz Behich has had quite the journey.
He joins OlanTekkers about the setbacks that shaped his career, making it overseas, facing some of football’s biggest names and the mentality that kept him going when things weren’t working out. He also relives his famous chance against Argentina, explains why it still haunts him, gives his honest take on the hype around young Socceroos and Australian football, and shares what he thinks the A-League needs to do to keep growing.
In this episode:
0:00 From NPL Vic with Green Gully to the A-League
1:53 The wing-back position
3:40 Breaking into professional football
4:18 Being told he wasn’t wanted at the airport
5:32 The trial that changed his career
6:17 Advice for young players on trial
8:01 Moving to Turkey
9:13 The toughest players Aziz has faced
10:25 How the fullback position has evolved
12:53 Aziz’s Socceroos journey
14:17 Struggling for game time overseas
15:05 His mentality when he’s not playing
16:31 Three World Cups with the Socceroos
17:35 The Denmark game in Qatar
18:06 That famous moment against Argentina
18:54 The importance of the Paraguay game
19:28 Pressure on the current Socceroos generation
21:17 The most underrated Socceroos
23:46 Are left backs underappreciated?
24:49 Switching off from football
26:50 How can the A-League improve?
Follow the Failed Footballer: https://www.instagram.com/failedfootballerpod
Follow Olan on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/olantekkers
Follow Olan on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@olantekkers
The Failed Footballer is an iHeart podcast. Watch, listen and discover more podcasts, playlists and live radio on the FREE iHeart App.
Olan may have failed as a footballer. So do 99.9 of players who try and make it, but how many of them can say they got a podcast out of it? Here you'll get unqualified takes from Olan, and expert commentary from football legends who actually made it. All the goals, all the drama, all the ammo for your group chat from football's biggest leagues around the world.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
He joins OlanTekkers about the setbacks that shaped his career, making it overseas, facing some of football’s biggest names and the mentality that kept him going when things weren’t working out. He also relives his famous chance against Argentina, explains why it still haunts him, gives his honest take on the hype around young Socceroos and Australian football, and shares what he thinks the A-League needs to do to keep growing.
In this episode:
0:00 From NPL Vic with Green Gully to the A-League
1:53 The wing-back position
3:40 Breaking into professional football
4:18 Being told he wasn’t wanted at the airport
5:32 The trial that changed his career
6:17 Advice for young players on trial
8:01 Moving to Turkey
9:13 The toughest players Aziz has faced
10:25 How the fullback position has evolved
12:53 Aziz’s Socceroos journey
14:17 Struggling for game time overseas
15:05 His mentality when he’s not playing
16:31 Three World Cups with the Socceroos
17:35 The Denmark game in Qatar
18:06 That famous moment against Argentina
18:54 The importance of the Paraguay game
19:28 Pressure on the current Socceroos generation
21:17 The most underrated Socceroos
23:46 Are left backs underappreciated?
24:49 Switching off from football
26:50 How can the A-League improve?
Follow the Failed Footballer: https://www.instagram.com/failedfootballerpod
Follow Olan on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/olantekkers
Follow Olan on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@olantekkers
The Failed Footballer is an iHeart podcast. Watch, listen and discover more podcasts, playlists and live radio on the FREE iHeart App.
Olan may have failed as a footballer. So do 99.9 of players who try and make it, but how many of them can say they got a podcast out of it? Here you'll get unqualified takes from Olan, and expert commentary from football legends who actually made it. All the goals, all the drama, all the ammo for your group chat from football's biggest leagues around the world.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
30 Minuten
Absolute baller (and brother of Norwich City's Mo) Al Hassan Toure joins The Failed Footballer to talk about his football journey from Liberia and Guinea to the A-League, the reality of chasing a career overseas, and representing the Socceroos. He opens up about growing up in a football-obsessed family, breaking into Adelaide United's first team at 19, and sharing the international stage with his younger brother Mohamed.
He also reveals the harsh side of playing in Europe, including a stint in Turkey where players went unpaid for six months, the injury struggles that nearly derailed his career, and how Sydney FC helped him rediscover his love for the game. Plus, his thoughts on the future of the Socceroos, playing in the Australia Cup, and how the A-League can improve.
In this episode:
00:00 Intro
00:35 Introducing Al Hassan Toure
00:53 Why A-League pre-seasons are too long
02:27 Winning the Australia Cup twice
04:14 Growing up in Liberia, Guinea and Australia
07:16 Realising he could become a professional footballer
08:39 Breaking into Adelaide United's first team
10:36 Chasing the European dream
11:20 "They stopped paying us for six months"
12:36 Injury setbacks in France
16:48 Life playing in the USA with FC Tulsa
18:33 Returning home and signing for Sydney FC
20:20 Making his Socceroos debut
21:53 Sharing the journey with brother Mohamed Toure
23:35 Watching family at the World Cup
25:25 Future goals and ambitions
27:12 How the A-League can improve
29:13 Sydney FC fans and final thoughts
Watch, listen and discover more podcasts, playlists and live radio on the FREE iHeart App.
Olan may have failed as a footballer. So do 99.9 of players who try and make it, but how many of them can say they got a podcast out of it? Here you'll get unqualified takes from Olan, and expert commentary from football legends who actually made it. All the goals, all the drama, all the ammo for your group chat from football's biggest leagues around the world.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
He also reveals the harsh side of playing in Europe, including a stint in Turkey where players went unpaid for six months, the injury struggles that nearly derailed his career, and how Sydney FC helped him rediscover his love for the game. Plus, his thoughts on the future of the Socceroos, playing in the Australia Cup, and how the A-League can improve.
In this episode:
00:00 Intro
00:35 Introducing Al Hassan Toure
00:53 Why A-League pre-seasons are too long
02:27 Winning the Australia Cup twice
04:14 Growing up in Liberia, Guinea and Australia
07:16 Realising he could become a professional footballer
08:39 Breaking into Adelaide United's first team
10:36 Chasing the European dream
11:20 "They stopped paying us for six months"
12:36 Injury setbacks in France
16:48 Life playing in the USA with FC Tulsa
18:33 Returning home and signing for Sydney FC
20:20 Making his Socceroos debut
21:53 Sharing the journey with brother Mohamed Toure
23:35 Watching family at the World Cup
25:25 Future goals and ambitions
27:12 How the A-League can improve
29:13 Sydney FC fans and final thoughts
Watch, listen and discover more podcasts, playlists and live radio on the FREE iHeart App.
Olan may have failed as a footballer. So do 99.9 of players who try and make it, but how many of them can say they got a podcast out of it? Here you'll get unqualified takes from Olan, and expert commentary from football legends who actually made it. All the goals, all the drama, all the ammo for your group chat from football's biggest leagues around the world.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
33 Minuten
Kat Haddad is back on The Failed Footballer to break down the biggest talking points in Australian and world football, from the Socceroos' performance against Brazil to the young players who could define the next generation.
Kat and Olantekkers look at whether the gap between Australia and football's traditional powerhouses is starting to close, why the Socceroos' emerging talent is so exciting and what the future could look like for the national team. Then the conversation turns to Manchester City and the debate around their financial charges, possible sanctions and whether past titles should ever be taken away.
Then NPL footballer Teng Kuol joins the show. Playing for Marconi, Kuol gives an insight into the quality and competitiveness of the NPL, the challenge of balancing semi-professional football with life away from the game, and why players outside the professional system have to take responsibility for doing the extra work themselves.
He also talks about playing across multiple positions, settling into Marconi, the pathway from the NPL to the professional game and his thoughts on the Socceroos and Australia's next generation.
If you're wondering how good Australia's next generation could be, what life is really like in the NPL, or what it takes to keep chasing professional football when you're outside the full-time system, this is the conversation for you.
In this episode:
00:00 Kat Haddad Joins the Show
00:49 Socceroos vs Brazil & Australia's Progress
02:18 Is the Gap to Football's Biggest Nations Closing?
04:39 The Socceroos' Next Generation
07:05 Who Should Australia Build the Team Around?
09:48 Australia's Emerging Attacking Talent
11:04 Manchester City's Financial Charges
12:38 Should Manchester City Be Stripped of Their Titles?
14:02 Can You Separate Pep Guardiola's Achievements From City's Charges?
16:22 What Should Manchester City's Punishment Be?
19:10 Could Manchester City Be Relegated?
21:16 Kat Haddad Wraps Up
21:44 Teng Kuol Joins the Show
22:02 How Competitive Is the NPL?
22:49 Australia's New National Second Tier
24:05 Teng Kuol's Best Position & Versatility
25:33 Club Heritage, Marconi & Fitting Into a New Team
27:20 Balancing Semi-Pro Football With Work
28:12 Why NPL Talent Can Slip Through the Cracks
28:57 The Difference Between Semi-Pro & Professional Football
30:43 Could Teng Kuol Have Scored That World Cup Chance?
31:51 Teng Kuol on the Socceroos & Australia's Future
Follow the Failed Footballer: www.instagram.com/failedfootballerpod
Follow Olan on Instagram: www.instagram.com/olantekkers
Follow Olan on TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@olantekkers
The Failed Footballer is an iHeart podcast. Watch, listen and discover more podcasts, playlists and live radio on the FREE iHeart App.
Olan may have failed as a footballer. So do 99.9 of players who try and make it, but how many of them can say they got a podcast out of it? Here you'll get unqualified takes from Olan, and expert commentary from football legends who actually made it. All the goals, all the drama, all the ammo for your group chat from football's biggest leagues around the world.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Kat and Olantekkers look at whether the gap between Australia and football's traditional powerhouses is starting to close, why the Socceroos' emerging talent is so exciting and what the future could look like for the national team. Then the conversation turns to Manchester City and the debate around their financial charges, possible sanctions and whether past titles should ever be taken away.
Then NPL footballer Teng Kuol joins the show. Playing for Marconi, Kuol gives an insight into the quality and competitiveness of the NPL, the challenge of balancing semi-professional football with life away from the game, and why players outside the professional system have to take responsibility for doing the extra work themselves.
He also talks about playing across multiple positions, settling into Marconi, the pathway from the NPL to the professional game and his thoughts on the Socceroos and Australia's next generation.
If you're wondering how good Australia's next generation could be, what life is really like in the NPL, or what it takes to keep chasing professional football when you're outside the full-time system, this is the conversation for you.
In this episode:
00:00 Kat Haddad Joins the Show
00:49 Socceroos vs Brazil & Australia's Progress
02:18 Is the Gap to Football's Biggest Nations Closing?
04:39 The Socceroos' Next Generation
07:05 Who Should Australia Build the Team Around?
09:48 Australia's Emerging Attacking Talent
11:04 Manchester City's Financial Charges
12:38 Should Manchester City Be Stripped of Their Titles?
14:02 Can You Separate Pep Guardiola's Achievements From City's Charges?
16:22 What Should Manchester City's Punishment Be?
19:10 Could Manchester City Be Relegated?
21:16 Kat Haddad Wraps Up
21:44 Teng Kuol Joins the Show
22:02 How Competitive Is the NPL?
22:49 Australia's New National Second Tier
24:05 Teng Kuol's Best Position & Versatility
25:33 Club Heritage, Marconi & Fitting Into a New Team
27:20 Balancing Semi-Pro Football With Work
28:12 Why NPL Talent Can Slip Through the Cracks
28:57 The Difference Between Semi-Pro & Professional Football
30:43 Could Teng Kuol Have Scored That World Cup Chance?
31:51 Teng Kuol on the Socceroos & Australia's Future
Follow the Failed Footballer: www.instagram.com/failedfootballerpod
Follow Olan on Instagram: www.instagram.com/olantekkers
Follow Olan on TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@olantekkers
The Failed Footballer is an iHeart podcast. Watch, listen and discover more podcasts, playlists and live radio on the FREE iHeart App.
Olan may have failed as a footballer. So do 99.9 of players who try and make it, but how many of them can say they got a podcast out of it? Here you'll get unqualified takes from Olan, and expert commentary from football legends who actually made it. All the goals, all the drama, all the ammo for your group chat from football's biggest leagues around the world.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
34 Minuten
Jackson Irvine has played for the Socceroos in 3 World Cups. He's played for Celtic, Hull City, Hibs, FC St. Pauli and is now getting at taste of the J-League with Cerezo Osaka. He's a box-to-box midfielder of the type that isn't so common anymore. And he definitely knows what it takes to make it as a footballer and avoid the 'failed' label.
He tells OlanTekkers how he made it, how he got through countless trials with European clubs and how Japanese football compares to the German, Scottish and English style of play.
Plus, his life outside football and what he gets up to: DJing, fashion and learning Japanese. If you're wondering how the A-League compares to European leagues, or what you need to do to get to the top of football anywhere in the world, this is the conversation for you.
In this episode:
00:00 Jackson Irvine on Life in Japan & the J.League
01:10 Culture Shock: Germany vs Japan
02:14 Learning Japanese & Language Barriers
03:59 J.League vs Bundesliga: Which League Is Better?
05:39 Why Japanese Players Are So Technical
07:03 Jackson Irvine's Journey from Victoria to Celtic
10:05 Does Australian Football Let Talents Slip Through the Cracks?
12:03 How Jackson Irvine Earned a Celtic Contract at 16
15:00 What Is Australia's Football Identity?
16:58 Why This Socceroos Generation Is Different
20:02 Jackson Irvine Reflects on the FIFA World Cup
23:51 Do Australians Only Care About the Socceroos During World Cups?
26:41 The Most Underrated Socceroo Ever? 28:46 Football, Fashion & Jackson Irvine's Style
29:52 Jackson Irvine's Music Career & Radio Show
31:01 Why Footballers Need Passions Outside the Game
32:39 Brazil, the Socceroos & What's Next for Jackson Irvine
Follow the Failed Footballer: https://www.instagram.com/failedfootballerpod
Follow Olan on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/olantekkers
Follow Olan on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@olantekkers
The Failed Footballer is an iHeart podcast. Watch, listen and discover more podcasts, playlists and live radio on the FREE iHeart App.
Olan may have failed as a footballer. So do 99.9 of players who try and make it, but how many of them can say they got a podcast out of it? Here you'll get unqualified takes from Olan, and expert commentary from football legends who actually made it. All the goals, all the drama, all the ammo for your group chat from football's biggest leagues around the world.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
He tells OlanTekkers how he made it, how he got through countless trials with European clubs and how Japanese football compares to the German, Scottish and English style of play.
Plus, his life outside football and what he gets up to: DJing, fashion and learning Japanese. If you're wondering how the A-League compares to European leagues, or what you need to do to get to the top of football anywhere in the world, this is the conversation for you.
In this episode:
00:00 Jackson Irvine on Life in Japan & the J.League
01:10 Culture Shock: Germany vs Japan
02:14 Learning Japanese & Language Barriers
03:59 J.League vs Bundesliga: Which League Is Better?
05:39 Why Japanese Players Are So Technical
07:03 Jackson Irvine's Journey from Victoria to Celtic
10:05 Does Australian Football Let Talents Slip Through the Cracks?
12:03 How Jackson Irvine Earned a Celtic Contract at 16
15:00 What Is Australia's Football Identity?
16:58 Why This Socceroos Generation Is Different
20:02 Jackson Irvine Reflects on the FIFA World Cup
23:51 Do Australians Only Care About the Socceroos During World Cups?
26:41 The Most Underrated Socceroo Ever? 28:46 Football, Fashion & Jackson Irvine's Style
29:52 Jackson Irvine's Music Career & Radio Show
31:01 Why Footballers Need Passions Outside the Game
32:39 Brazil, the Socceroos & What's Next for Jackson Irvine
Follow the Failed Footballer: https://www.instagram.com/failedfootballerpod
Follow Olan on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/olantekkers
Follow Olan on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@olantekkers
The Failed Footballer is an iHeart podcast. Watch, listen and discover more podcasts, playlists and live radio on the FREE iHeart App.
Olan may have failed as a footballer. So do 99.9 of players who try and make it, but how many of them can say they got a podcast out of it? Here you'll get unqualified takes from Olan, and expert commentary from football legends who actually made it. All the goals, all the drama, all the ammo for your group chat from football's biggest leagues around the world.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
29 Minuten
There was VAR Chaos in the Manchester derby - should Haaland's goal have stood? Should Bruno Fernandes have been sent off too?
Lucas Harrington's Premier League breakout season continues as Hull hold Chelsea to a 2-2 draw. How are they doing so well?
Mohamed Touré's scoring run continues: how's he doing it?
The Men's and Women's NPL Grand Finals delivered on the drama and the goals
And it's the big NPL vs A-League debate: where should young players be aiming to get to?
The Manchester Derby delivered on the drama once again. OlanTekkers and Kat Haddad debate whether Michael Carrick can finally solve Manchester United's post-Ferguson problems, and vent about another VAR controversy after officials admitted a mistake in City's win.
They also check in on two Socceroos flying overseas, with Lucas Harrington helping Hull continue their dream Premier League start and Mohamed Touré's incredible scoring run continuing.
Back home, the NSW NPL Grand Finals delivered drama, stunning goals and massive crowds, sparking a bigger conversation about the role of NPL football in Australia. Are young players better off chasing the A-League pathway or building careers through the NPL? What are the financial realities facing Australian footballers? And are clubs doing enough to benefit from the success of players they develop before they're sold overseas?
Host: OlanTekkers
Host: Kat Haddad
In this episode:
00:00 Manchester Derby Chaos & Michael Carrick's United
03:07 Red Card Controversy Sparks Debate
04:32 VAR Admits Haaland Goal Error
06:11 Hull's Dream Premier League Start
08:51 Mohamed Touré Can't Stop Scoring
11:31 NPL Women's Grand Final Goes to 120 Minutes
14:57 One of the Best NPL Goals You'll Ever See?
16:10 Why Sydney United's Fans Are Different
17:31 NPL vs A-League: Which Means More?
18:20 Is the NPL Australia's Version of the MLS?
19:55 Why Some Players Choose NPL Over A-League
22:06 The NPL Stories We Need More Of
23:50 Are Australian Clubs Missing Out on Transfer Money?
24:25 The MLS Pathway for Young Aussies
25:23 Nestor Irankunda's Transfer Fee Explained
26:12 Did Brisbane Roar Miss Out on Millions?
27:32 How Australian Football Can Benefit from Future Transfers
28:04 Should Young Players Choose the A-League or NPL?
Follow the Failed Footballer on Instagram: @failedfootballerpod
Follow Olan on Instagram: @olantekkers
Follow Olan on TikTok: @olantekkers
The Failed Footballer is an iHeart podcast. Watch, listen and discover more podcasts, playlists and live radio on the FREE iHeart App. Olan may have failed as a footballer. So do 99.9 of players who try and make it, but how many of them can say they got a podcast out of it? Here you'll get unqualified takes from Olan, and expert commentary from football legends who actually made it. All the goals, all the drama, all the ammo for your group chat from football's biggest leagues around the world.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Lucas Harrington's Premier League breakout season continues as Hull hold Chelsea to a 2-2 draw. How are they doing so well?
Mohamed Touré's scoring run continues: how's he doing it?
The Men's and Women's NPL Grand Finals delivered on the drama and the goals
And it's the big NPL vs A-League debate: where should young players be aiming to get to?
The Manchester Derby delivered on the drama once again. OlanTekkers and Kat Haddad debate whether Michael Carrick can finally solve Manchester United's post-Ferguson problems, and vent about another VAR controversy after officials admitted a mistake in City's win.
They also check in on two Socceroos flying overseas, with Lucas Harrington helping Hull continue their dream Premier League start and Mohamed Touré's incredible scoring run continuing.
Back home, the NSW NPL Grand Finals delivered drama, stunning goals and massive crowds, sparking a bigger conversation about the role of NPL football in Australia. Are young players better off chasing the A-League pathway or building careers through the NPL? What are the financial realities facing Australian footballers? And are clubs doing enough to benefit from the success of players they develop before they're sold overseas?
Host: OlanTekkers
Host: Kat Haddad
In this episode:
00:00 Manchester Derby Chaos & Michael Carrick's United
03:07 Red Card Controversy Sparks Debate
04:32 VAR Admits Haaland Goal Error
06:11 Hull's Dream Premier League Start
08:51 Mohamed Touré Can't Stop Scoring
11:31 NPL Women's Grand Final Goes to 120 Minutes
14:57 One of the Best NPL Goals You'll Ever See?
16:10 Why Sydney United's Fans Are Different
17:31 NPL vs A-League: Which Means More?
18:20 Is the NPL Australia's Version of the MLS?
19:55 Why Some Players Choose NPL Over A-League
22:06 The NPL Stories We Need More Of
23:50 Are Australian Clubs Missing Out on Transfer Money?
24:25 The MLS Pathway for Young Aussies
25:23 Nestor Irankunda's Transfer Fee Explained
26:12 Did Brisbane Roar Miss Out on Millions?
27:32 How Australian Football Can Benefit from Future Transfers
28:04 Should Young Players Choose the A-League or NPL?
Follow the Failed Footballer on Instagram: @failedfootballerpod
Follow Olan on Instagram: @olantekkers
Follow Olan on TikTok: @olantekkers
The Failed Footballer is an iHeart podcast. Watch, listen and discover more podcasts, playlists and live radio on the FREE iHeart App. Olan may have failed as a footballer. So do 99.9 of players who try and make it, but how many of them can say they got a podcast out of it? Here you'll get unqualified takes from Olan, and expert commentary from football legends who actually made it. All the goals, all the drama, all the ammo for your group chat from football's biggest leagues around the world.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
30 Minuten
What's it like getting to the highest levels of football but then falling back down the pyramid? Alou Kuol went from winning trophies with the Central Coast Mariners and signing for Bundesliga side VfB Stuttgart, to the Mariners again, and finally to the NPL. He opens up about the highs of making it in Europe, the setbacks that followed, and what keeps him chasing the top level.
Plus, advice for young players who are trialing at top clubs, life in Germany and how the top-flight in Europe compares to the A-League.
OlanTekkers also breaks down Australia's shock failure to qualify for the U20 2027 Asian Cup, the Aussie stars lighting up Europe, and whether the next generation can take Aussie football forward.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Plus, advice for young players who are trialing at top clubs, life in Germany and how the top-flight in Europe compares to the A-League.
OlanTekkers also breaks down Australia's shock failure to qualify for the U20 2027 Asian Cup, the Aussie stars lighting up Europe, and whether the next generation can take Aussie football forward.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
15 Minuten
OlanTekkers wraps up the performances of our Aussie footballers playing abroad. Mo Toure is on fire 3 games into the EFL Championship season - scoring a brace for Norwich City. Lucas Herrington got 30 minutes in the Premier League for Hull City against Coventry, and Patrick Beach pulled off a worldie of save in Ligue 1 for Troyes. The future looks bright for Aussie football - the 2030 World Cup is going to be interesting.
Plus, an interview with 20 year-old Macarthur Bulls midfielder Oliver Randazzo. Hear how he made it to the top of Aussie football, and what it takes to stay there.
The Failed Footballer is an iHeart podcast.
Watch, listen and discover more podcasts, playlists and live radio on the FREE iHeart App.
Olan may have failed as a footballer. So do 99.9 of players who try and make it, but how many of them can say they got a podcast out of it? Here you'll get unqualified takes from Olan, and expert commentary from football legends who actually made it.
All the goals, all the drama, all the ammo for your group chat from football's biggest leagues around the world.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Plus, an interview with 20 year-old Macarthur Bulls midfielder Oliver Randazzo. Hear how he made it to the top of Aussie football, and what it takes to stay there.
The Failed Footballer is an iHeart podcast.
Watch, listen and discover more podcasts, playlists and live radio on the FREE iHeart App.
Olan may have failed as a footballer. So do 99.9 of players who try and make it, but how many of them can say they got a podcast out of it? Here you'll get unqualified takes from Olan, and expert commentary from football legends who actually made it.
All the goals, all the drama, all the ammo for your group chat from football's biggest leagues around the world.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
20 Minuten
Nestory Irankunda talks his career-changing move to Portugese giants Sporting CP, how he bounced back from a difficult period in his career, and why the A-League deserves more respect.
Plus, future Aussie stars to watch, how Turkiye fired up the Socceroos with their World Cup antics and what can be done to nurture more home-grown talent.
One of Australia's most exciting football prospects ever gives OlanTekkers a glimpse into life as a footballer at the very top. The failed footballer interviews the successful one. Enjoy
Follow the Failed Footballer: https://www.instagram.com/failedfootballerpod/
Follow Olan on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/olantekkers/
Follow Olan on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@olantekkers?lang=en
The Failed Footballer is an iHeart podcast. Watch, listen and discover more podcasts, playlists and live radio on the FREE iHeart App. Olan may have failed as a footballer.
So do 99.9 of players who try and make it, but how many of them can say they got a podcast out of it? Here you'll get unqualified takes from Olan, and expert commentary from football legends who actually made it.
All the goals, all the drama, all the ammo for your group chat from football's biggest leagues around the world.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Plus, future Aussie stars to watch, how Turkiye fired up the Socceroos with their World Cup antics and what can be done to nurture more home-grown talent.
One of Australia's most exciting football prospects ever gives OlanTekkers a glimpse into life as a footballer at the very top. The failed footballer interviews the successful one. Enjoy
Follow the Failed Footballer: https://www.instagram.com/failedfootballerpod/
Follow Olan on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/olantekkers/
Follow Olan on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@olantekkers?lang=en
The Failed Footballer is an iHeart podcast. Watch, listen and discover more podcasts, playlists and live radio on the FREE iHeart App. Olan may have failed as a footballer.
So do 99.9 of players who try and make it, but how many of them can say they got a podcast out of it? Here you'll get unqualified takes from Olan, and expert commentary from football legends who actually made it.
All the goals, all the drama, all the ammo for your group chat from football's biggest leagues around the world.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
29 Minuten
OlanTekkers goes down to the Central Coast Mariners training ground to see how they do it at elite level. How do you go from youth academy, to NPL, to A-League? What does it take to make the jump?
First-team players and academy graduates Harrison Steele and Lucas Mauragis share their journey, give advice for young players coming through the system and tell us what you need to make it at the highest level in Australia.
Plus, the new European season is underway, and Spurs and United are being their usual selves in the Premier League. Spurs lost 3-0 to Brentford while United lost 2-0 to newly promote Hull City. It was Australia's third youngest player to debut in the EPL that had everyone excited though; could Lucas Herrington become one of the all-time great Aussie footballers? How to avoid being a failed footballer, and a spotlight on an exciting young Aussie talent overseas - that's what you can expect from the Failed Football podcast.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
First-team players and academy graduates Harrison Steele and Lucas Mauragis share their journey, give advice for young players coming through the system and tell us what you need to make it at the highest level in Australia.
Plus, the new European season is underway, and Spurs and United are being their usual selves in the Premier League. Spurs lost 3-0 to Brentford while United lost 2-0 to newly promote Hull City. It was Australia's third youngest player to debut in the EPL that had everyone excited though; could Lucas Herrington become one of the all-time great Aussie footballers? How to avoid being a failed footballer, and a spotlight on an exciting young Aussie talent overseas - that's what you can expect from the Failed Football podcast.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
18 Minuten
What’s it like spending three weeks fighting for your dream, only to be let go in a two and a half minute meeting? How do you handle the emotional heartbreak of missing out on the 2026 World Cup squad after giving everything for your country? And what is the reality of player-manager relationships at the highest level?
This week, Socceroos striker Mitch Duke joins OlanTekkers for a raw, unfiltered conversation about national team selections, manager dynamics, and the toughest moments of his career. We get the exclusive inside story on his relationship with Australia manager Tony Popovic, the brutal reality of squad cut-offs, and what went down during that brief exit meeting in Florida before the 2026 World Cup. Mitch opens up about the frustration of spending weeks in camp away from his kids, only to be delivered the disappointing news in minutes.
Beyond the Popovic selection drama, Mitch reflects on his iconic 2022 World Cup header against Tunisia, his rise from the A-League to becoming a fan favourite in Japan's J-League, and how he built the mentality to navigate elite football's biggest highs and brutal lows. What went through his head during that brief conversation with Popovic? How does a player process being left out after giving everything in qualification? And how do you pick yourself up and stay proud after such a devastating setback?
Plus, Mitch shares his advice for young strikers coming through the ranks, discusses life with his family in Japan, and reflects on his lasting legacy in green and gold.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week, Socceroos striker Mitch Duke joins OlanTekkers for a raw, unfiltered conversation about national team selections, manager dynamics, and the toughest moments of his career. We get the exclusive inside story on his relationship with Australia manager Tony Popovic, the brutal reality of squad cut-offs, and what went down during that brief exit meeting in Florida before the 2026 World Cup. Mitch opens up about the frustration of spending weeks in camp away from his kids, only to be delivered the disappointing news in minutes.
Beyond the Popovic selection drama, Mitch reflects on his iconic 2022 World Cup header against Tunisia, his rise from the A-League to becoming a fan favourite in Japan's J-League, and how he built the mentality to navigate elite football's biggest highs and brutal lows. What went through his head during that brief conversation with Popovic? How does a player process being left out after giving everything in qualification? And how do you pick yourself up and stay proud after such a devastating setback?
Plus, Mitch shares his advice for young strikers coming through the ranks, discusses life with his family in Japan, and reflects on his lasting legacy in green and gold.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
24 Minuten
Spain had 20 shots. Argentina didn't have a shot until the 117th minute. Just what exactly happened?
Guest host and football tragic Nick Stav and iHeart sports reporter John Bric unpack all the stats and baffling tactical decisions from the 2026 World Cup Final. Why did Argentina coach Scaloni play so negatively? Why did Trump refuse to get off the stage? And is Rodri really the most deserving Player of the Tournament?
Plus, who's on for the Balon D'Or now Messi, Mbappe and Kane each left without a World Cup win? What sort of goalscoring records is Mbappe going to win as he looks ahead to 2030? And how does this tournament rank compared to previous World Cups?
The World Cup is done but The Failed Footballer is not. OlanTekkers will be back with a weekly podcast covering the biggest stories from the Premier League, La Liga, Serie A, Ligue 1, A-League, NPL and Champions League as the 26/27 season gets underway on August 22.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Guest host and football tragic Nick Stav and iHeart sports reporter John Bric unpack all the stats and baffling tactical decisions from the 2026 World Cup Final. Why did Argentina coach Scaloni play so negatively? Why did Trump refuse to get off the stage? And is Rodri really the most deserving Player of the Tournament?
Plus, who's on for the Balon D'Or now Messi, Mbappe and Kane each left without a World Cup win? What sort of goalscoring records is Mbappe going to win as he looks ahead to 2030? And how does this tournament rank compared to previous World Cups?
The World Cup is done but The Failed Footballer is not. OlanTekkers will be back with a weekly podcast covering the biggest stories from the Premier League, La Liga, Serie A, Ligue 1, A-League, NPL and Champions League as the 26/27 season gets underway on August 22.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
33 Minuten
England were minutes away from a World Cup final, then Tuchel pressed the self-destruct button. Messi did Messi things and Argentina turned it around. How did it happen?
Olan is in the UK trying to get over the loss, so Kat Haddad jumps into the host chair to unpack England's heartbreaking semi-final loss to Argentina, and the fallout from one of the biggest games of the tournament. The dust has settled and we've heard more opinions than ever, but there's still more to say.
NRL legend and host of UNSCRIPTED Josh Mansour joins Kat to analyse the game and debate:
How did Thomas Tuchel get it so wrong?
How have Spain snuck under the radar into the final?
And is this the biggest missed opportunity of the modern England era?
We then look ahead to Sunday's World Cup Final between Spain and Argentina - Europe's champions against the defending world champions. Will Lamine Yamal finally step up?
Plus, how does this World Cup compare to previous years? Is it just too American?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Olan is in the UK trying to get over the loss, so Kat Haddad jumps into the host chair to unpack England's heartbreaking semi-final loss to Argentina, and the fallout from one of the biggest games of the tournament. The dust has settled and we've heard more opinions than ever, but there's still more to say.
NRL legend and host of UNSCRIPTED Josh Mansour joins Kat to analyse the game and debate:
How did Thomas Tuchel get it so wrong?
How have Spain snuck under the radar into the final?
And is this the biggest missed opportunity of the modern England era?
We then look ahead to Sunday's World Cup Final between Spain and Argentina - Europe's champions against the defending world champions. Will Lamine Yamal finally step up?
Plus, how does this World Cup compare to previous years? Is it just too American?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
31 Minuten
What really happened before Patrick Beach was subbed off for Maty Ryan in the World Cup Round of 32 against Egypt? What does it take to spend more than a decade as Australia's No.1 goalkeeper? And how do you go from Blacktown City to the Premier League?
This week, Socceroos captain and player in FOUR World Cups Maty Ryan joins OlanTekkers for an honest conversation about the moments that shaped his career.
We go right back to Maty's beginnings in Western Sydney, his time at Westfield Sports High (fellow alumni includes Harry Kewell and Alanna Kennedy) and the mentality that helped him make the leap from NPL to the biggest leagues in Europe.
We also get the inside story on Australia's World Cup campaign, Popovic's selection decisions, Patrick Beach's breakout tournament and how Maty handled the disappointment of watching from the sidelines while still helping drive the team forward behind the scenes.
What was going through his head when he was told he'd be coming on for a penalty shootout? Did he always believe he'd make it to the top? And why do Australian footballers still have to work twice as hard to earn respect overseas?
Plus, Maty shares his advice for young goalkeepers, explains why mentality matters more than talent, discusses Australia's next generation, and reveals whether he still believes a spot at the 2030 World Cup is within reach.
One of Australia's greatest footballers tells his story.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week, Socceroos captain and player in FOUR World Cups Maty Ryan joins OlanTekkers for an honest conversation about the moments that shaped his career.
We go right back to Maty's beginnings in Western Sydney, his time at Westfield Sports High (fellow alumni includes Harry Kewell and Alanna Kennedy) and the mentality that helped him make the leap from NPL to the biggest leagues in Europe.
We also get the inside story on Australia's World Cup campaign, Popovic's selection decisions, Patrick Beach's breakout tournament and how Maty handled the disappointment of watching from the sidelines while still helping drive the team forward behind the scenes.
What was going through his head when he was told he'd be coming on for a penalty shootout? Did he always believe he'd make it to the top? And why do Australian footballers still have to work twice as hard to earn respect overseas?
Plus, Maty shares his advice for young goalkeepers, explains why mentality matters more than talent, discusses Australia's next generation, and reveals whether he still believes a spot at the 2030 World Cup is within reach.
One of Australia's greatest footballers tells his story.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
