
Dem Boys Watch Footy?! Podcast
Erik Merritt
DBWF Ep 50: Dembele Ballon d' Or Winner!
Episode Notes
Episode 50: The Dembélé Wins! It's a landmark moment for us as we celebrate our 50th episode! We're diving deep into a week that shook the football world, starting with the biggest awards of the year. First up, Ousmane Dembélé has made history. We break down what it means for the PSG forward to become only the second Black player ever to win the Ballon d’Or, a monumental achievement following in the footsteps of George Weah. We ask if this recognition for African and Black excellence in football is long overdue and chart Dembélé’s incredible journey from injury-plagued prospect to the very top of the sport. The Ballon d'Or drama doesn't stop there. We also discuss Aitana Bonmatí's continued dominance, as she claims her second consecutive Ballon d'Or Féminin. Is she already in the conversation for the greatest of all time? We debate her status and look at the top challengers who could threaten her reign next year, from Trinity Rodman and Sophia Smith to Alessia Russo and Linda Caicedo. And what about Real Madrid’s unprecedented boycott of the ceremony? We analyze their decision to skip the event and discuss what it says about the politics of modern football and whether the Ballon d’Or still holds the prestige it once did. Then, we switch gears to the pitch with a tactical breakdown of the thrilling 1-1 draw between Arsenal and Manchester City. Despite key absences, did the Gunners prove they are title contenders? We look at the standout performances, from Eberechi Eze and Declan Rice to Viktor Gyökeres and William Saliba. We wrap up with a look at some of the Premier League's biggest stories, including Alejandro Garnacho's recent form—is he finally maturing into a consistent star? We also recap the chaotic 1-1 draw between Manchester United and Chelsea, two struggling giants still searching for their identity. And finally, we offer our verdict on the new EA FC 26 game. Banger or bust? We talk new features, career mode, Ultimate Team changes, and whether the game is becoming too pay-to-win. Join us for our biggest episode yet!