Jonathan Tannenwald, Chief Soccer Correspondent for the Philadelphia Inquirer, joins the boys on OTB to stir up some controversy about his feelings for his hometown Union FC and their incredibly successful youth programs, Jim Curtin, USMNT's lineup, Emma Hayes, and 14-year-old phenom Cavan Sullivan.

In this episode of the Over the Ball podcast, the Philadelphia Inquirer's beloved Chief Soccer Correspondent, Jonathan Tannenwald, joins Dave and John Bolster (who is sitting in for Kevin), stirring up some controversy about his feelings for his hometown team the Union, uncovers some insight about the Philadelphia Union's incredibly successful youth programs, Jim Curtin's future at the USMNT, 14-year-old phenom Cavan Sullivan, and Emma Hayes. The OTB boys also dig into an incredibly eventful week over the pond including Man City's dominance in the Premier League, Leverkusen's unbeaten season in the Bundesliga, Pep Guardiola's potential departure from Man City, the appointment of a new manager at Liverpool, the turmoil at Barcelona, and the US Men's National Team training camp roster. Tannenwald shares his insights on USMNT's lineup, potential surprises, and the challenges they may face, while also opining on the importance of the US Open Cup and the history of soccer in Philadelphia. Additionally, he discusses the youth development program of the Philadelphia Union and their success in MLS Next Pro, delves into the success of the youth development process in Philadelphia and the structure of the Academy system, and highlights the YSC Academy, a high school for the union's elite prospects. The conversation also touches on the success of the Philadelphia Union in developing players in various positions, including creative midfielders and center backs.