The latest episode of the Cooligans podcast brings together hosts Christian Polanco, Alexis Guerreros and Mickey Voll for a candid conversation about the intersection of money, power and soccer.
They argue that the formation of the Premier League marked a turning point, a moment they describe as the sport’s loss of its original soul, when commercial imperatives began to dominate on‑field narratives.
According to the hosts, private investors are now shaping international competitions, citing Josh Kushner and his brother Jared Kushner as examples of individuals leveraging personal wealth to sway decisions behind the scenes.
The Money Game in Soccer
The discussion turns critical of FIFA, noting that the organization has proposed a $40 million payment to nations that vote in favor of certain reforms, a move the podcasters label as an open bribe that undermines democratic governance of the sport.
Guests such as Gianni Infantino and Martin Ziegler are referenced as emblematic of the broader power structures that prioritize financial incentives over the integrity of the game.
The hosts conclude by questioning whether the current trajectory can be reversed, urging fans, governing bodies and stakeholders to reclaim the cultural essence of soccer before it becomes solely a commodity.