The #PURE10 Podcast

by Sam Akpan

A new, refreshing (and sometimes, controversial) outlook on weekly events going in the Premier League and beyond hosted by Sam Akpan.

LinkedIn: Samuel Akpan

Twitter: @_samakpan

Instagram: @sam.akpan

Football
Soccer

Podcast episodes

  • Season 1

  • Leading the future of Arsenal's academy - The #PURE10 podcast with Per Mertesacker

    Leading the future of Arsenal's academy - The #PURE10 podcast with Per Mertesacker

    S01 E01
    Jun 5, 2023
    35:35

    Having a sit down with Per Mertesacker, former Arsenal defender and current academy manager, on his path, reflecting on Arsenal's success and his future for development within the field. Hope this is enjoyable.01:26:09 – How has the season been from the perspective of Academy manager?03:57:18 – How do you stop to reflect on what you’ve done this season?06:17:03 – What do you consider to be the main metric of success as academy manager08:31:34 - How do you deal with a diverse academy of different backgrounds and upbringings10:11:22 – How do you define your role at the Arsenal Academy?12:12:14 – What is the biggest learning curve you are most proud of during your journey?14:35:19 – How do you keep the appetite to continue learning?16:56:21 – I s there anything when you first started where you thought ‘I don’t want to do this’?19:08:01 – How do you strike a balance between developing players and on the pitch success?22:18:23 – Is playing pressurised games like the Youth Cup final something you try to recreate often?25:04:24 – How do you take breaks?27:45:11 – Where do you see your development taking you next?31:38:15 – Any tips for someone to get into the industry?

  • Building the blocks for the next generation of QPR - The #PURE10 podcast with Alex Carroll

    Building the blocks for the next generation of QPR - The #PURE10 podcast with Alex Carroll

    Jul 12, 2023
    35:04

    A sit down with Queens Park Rangers academy director, Alex Carroll where he talks about his journey, the new training ground, giving tips and advice to those trying to work within academies.