Sideline Story

FIFA’s revamped Club World Cup will unveil the draw of the participating teams in December after the final berth is taken. What level of excitement can it produce? Why has FIFA insisted on the project amid opposition from some players and clubs? Also in this episode, we give our expectations on the Club World Cup next summer and discuss what organizers can do to avoid too much fatigue for players.

Incoming Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has given the English club’s fans some hope after leading his current team, Sporting, to a 4-1 upset of Manchester City in the UEFA Champions League. What changes could he bring to the Red Devils after he officially takes charge of the team later this month? Can he lift United out of their recent struggles? Also in this episode, we discuss which United manager did a better job in the post Alex Ferguson era.

Spanish midfielder Rodri beat Vinicius Jr. to win the 2024 Ballon d'Or Best Male Player award. What made him stand out among all nominees in a year where there was no absolute favorite for the trophy? Does he deserve the honor? Also in this episode, we discuss why defenders don't often win the Ballon d'Or and whether Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi can be in the Ballon d'Or conversation again in the future.

The new season of the NBA sees the long awaited return of a Chinese player to the league. What can we expect from Cui Yongxi’s performance with the Brooklyn Nets? Can he earn a spot in the team rotation? Also in this episode, we touch on the first ever father-son duo in the NBA, LeBron and Bronny James, as well as whether Klay Thompson can return to his prime with the Dallas Mavericks.

Chinese Formula One driver Zhou Guanyu’s seat at Sauber is uncertain for 2025 as he is yet to extend his contract with the team. Will he remain an F1 driver next year? Also in this episode, we look at the fierce battle between Max Verstappen and Lando Norris over the driver's championship near the end of the season, and examine the reasons behind Red Bull's decline midway through the season.

The ATP Shanghai Masters features a record number of players from the Chinese mainland in the main draw. What does it say about China’s tennis progress on the men's side? Also in this episode, we list our choices of the best performers in Shanghai and discuss Novak Djokovic’s form as he returned to the Shanghai event after a five-year absence.

Erling Haaland recently reached the quickest 100-goal milestone with one club using just 105 games, matching Cristiano Ronaldo’s European record. Amid Haaland’s achievement, Sideline Story talks about the greatest strikers and players in other positions from our personal perspective. Also in this episode, we discuss which of the rising stars has the potential to win the most number of Ballon d’Or awards.

Top tennis talents are gathering in Beijing for the 2024 China Open, which is celebrating its 20th anniversary. What can we expect from the Zheng Qinwen-led Chinese delegation at the tournament? Who can stand out in the tough men’s competition? Also in this episode, we look back at the history of the China Open and discuss what makes it a unique event.

The new UEFA Champions League season is underway with the brand new league format, as an expanded 36 teams are put into the same pool competing for the last 16 berths. How are the reforms altering the Champions League games? How will the increaed number of games impact the players amid an already packed game schedule? Also in this episode, we take a look at the performance of the high-profile teams after the first round.

The European football summer transfer window closed with some significant moves of players. Which of the signings have reflected the value? Who disappointed the most in the deals? Also in this episode, we touch on why big powers in European football are spending more cautiously in the transfer market.