The Ballon d’Or hero who shagged a spy

Harry Kane's recent Ballon d'Or win has sparked a wave of excitement and controversy, as fans and pundits reflect on the event's chaotic atmosphere. The ceremony was marked by a frenzy of fans attempting to catch a glimpse of Kane, reminiscent of FIFA Ultimate Team enthusiasts. Amidst the celebrations, discussions also arose about the less glamorous aspects of football, including some of the sport's most scandalous figures.

The episode delves into the colorful pasts of various football personalities, including Stanley Matthews, who faced scrutiny for his questionable actions during and after his playing career. Matthews, who won the Ballon d'Or in 1956, was involved in a scandal involving black market activities during World War II and a controversial relationship with a Czechoslovak spy. The hosts also discuss Kylian Mbappe's recent missteps, including a faux pas regarding Chairman Mao that cost him sponsorship deals.

In a lighter vein, the podcast touches on Jermaine Pennant's recent dog attack incident, which resulted in significant injuries and stitches. The conversation shifts to the ongoing managerial turmoil at Manchester United, with speculation surrounding potential replacements for the struggling Michael Carrick, including Eddie Howe and the return of David Moyes. The hosts conclude with a humorous take on the absurdities of modern football, emphasizing the need for a more entertaining narrative in the sport.

On the show today:

- The Ballon d’Or hero who shagged a communist spy

- Jim Ratcliffe’s meddling in the Old Trafford kitchens

- China turns on Kylian Mbappe

EXCLUSIVE NordVPN Deal ➼ https://nordvpn.com/upshot Try it risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee 🌐

Get early access to Famously: upshot.email/famously

Subscribe to our Patreon: www.patreon.com/upshottowers

JPs Gossip Hotline - 07354079834

Links from the show:

Jason Tindall handshake - https://tenor.com/en-GB/view/tindall-jason-tindall-tindall-handshake-jason-tindall-handshake-tindall-snub-gif-18317446107002502978

Wham t-shirt - https://www.facebook.com/newcastleunitedblackandwhite/posts/jason-tindall-wearing-a-mocked-up-wham-hoody-with-his-and-eddie-howes-faces-on-i/1038490438319161/

Last Christmas - https://www.reddit.com/media?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.redd.it%2Fypv1dt5lb14g1.png

Children’s hospital joke - https://x.com/MagpieJoe_/status/1871811440937709874

Banbury United - https://x.com/FlynnPB69/status/2113670922607436098

Jermaine Pennant - https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/jermaine-pennants-dog-1118397149_def1a4.jpg?resize=819,1024&quality=90&strip=all

Back tattoos - https://www.instagram.com/p/De79oFzILe0/

Jimmy Bullard - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tnca5gse8Nk

Kompany - https://x.com/secondtierpod/status/1822932103379464543 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices