”Insert Name” FC Podcast

Episode 256: Skittles, Stadium Drama, & Franchise Blues

In this week’s episode of Insert Name FC, Hector Flores dives into some of the biggest talking points across North American and world football. First, it’s all eyes on Vancouver as the Whitecaps face existential uncertainty—will stadium woes and franchise model pitfalls force a move to Las Vegas or Phoenix? Hector Flores breaks down the financial, cultural, and community impacts, drawing comparisons to other teams that have relocated throughout American sports history and reflecting on what it means for fans. Next, the show takes a close look at the USL’s push for promotion and relegation and the realities behind the league’s new CBA: can player conditions catch up with their on-field ambitions? Hector Flores talks about minimum salaries, contract protections, and why player protests matter. The La Liga rumor mill heats up as Real Madrid is once again linked with José Mourinho—a move Hector Flores is less than thrilled about. Why does the “special one” no longer fit at the Bernabéu? Plus, Player of the Week honors, must-watch matches (El Clásico, Old Firm Derby, and key playoff legs), and a Give and Go card game reveal—find out what Skittles have to do with Sunday league pregame rituals. Finally, Hector Flores shares a personal update about moving and what it could mean for the podcast schedule in the weeks ahead. Tune in for community and club talk, sharp insights, nostalgia, and a candid look at the ongoing identity crisis of soccer in North America.   0:00:00 – Intro 0:48:00 – USL player conditions, collective bargaining agreement (CBA) negotiations, and contract protections 1:00:00 – Mourinho to Real Madrid rumors and why it’s a bad idea; manager candidates discussion 1:06:00 – Players of the week, upcoming matches to watch, and updates on league races 1:12:00 – Jersey bet update, Premier League and La Liga storylines, and final fixture previews 1:18:00 – Give and Go segment: personal pregame ritual and episode wrap-up/housekeeping

Episode 255: Every Team Needs a Dawg

This week on "Insert Name" FC, Hector Flores and Edward Robles are joined by special guest Matt Poland, manager and sporting director of FC Naples in USL League One. They dive deep into the journey of building a club from scratch, the importance of balancing coaching and sporting director duties, and what it takes to instill a winning mentality in a new team. Matt Poland gives a behind-the-scenes look at FC Naples' meteoric rise, their community-driven identity, and the significance of recruiting players who have that "dawg" mentality. The episode also covers: * Comparing the draft system in US sports to global football's academy pathways * The challenges and rewards of the American soccer structure * A rundown of the dramatic changes in Liga MX ahead of the playoffs and the effect on teams losing Mexican internationals * Premier League managerial chaos at Chelsea and the identity crisis at Manchester United * Player of the Week and must-watch matches for the upcoming weekend Whether you’re a player, a coach, or just a fan, this episode breaks down why every team—no matter the league—needs a true "dawg" to compete at the highest level. Watch, subscribe, and join the conversation wherever you get your podcasts. Full video on Belly Up Sports' YouTube channel! Sponsored by SeatGeek, Righteous Felon Craft Jerky, and Canada Dip CBD.

Episode 254: Power Leagues, Power Plays

The stakes are higher than ever in European football! In Episode 254 of "Insert Name" FC Podcast, host Hector Flores is joined by special guest Moussa from Mofootball TV to break down all the action from the Champions League quarterfinals and preview the can’t-miss semifinal showdowns. The crew dives deep into the tactical chess matches, key storylines, and underdog narratives dominating this season’s UCL, including Atletico Madrid’s defensive masterclass, PSG’s front-line firepower, and Bayern Munich’s unstoppable run. Plus, what’s the secret behind Arsenal’s set-piece prowess—and is it enough to see them through? After the Champions League, Hector Flores takes you through the final stretch in Europe’s Power 5 leagues. From title races to relegation battles and the mad dash for those coveted Champions League spots, find out which clubs still have everything to play for and which narratives are dominating Ligue 1, Bundesliga, Serie A, La Liga, and the Premier League. Also: * Players of the Week * Top games to watch this weekend * A special “Give and Go” card game segment: Who is the GOAT in women’s soccer? * Shoutouts to partners, sponsors, and the legendary Roosevelt Spencer Plug in for the biggest storylines, boldest predictions, plenty of banter, and your full European football fix! Listen now on Apple, Spotify, Belly Up’s YouTube, and wherever you get your podcasts.

Episode 253: The Bar Was Already Low, But Holy…

In this week's episode of the "Insert Name" FC Podcast, Hector Flores and Edward Robles dive into the viral FS1 debate on the "26 Most Influential Players of the 2026 World Cup"—and trust us, the list has to be heard to be believed. The hosts break down the hilariously questionable rankings, call out the questionable “expertise” of the panel that made the list, and ask: what even is an “influential” player? Hector Flores also unveils his projected 26-man USMNT roster for 2026, with Edward Robles giving his takes—did anyone get snubbed? Who actually makes a difference for the US, and is Christian Pulisic really all that? Plus, they hit on Players of the Week, games to watch across the globe, and take a nostalgia trip with the "Give and Go" soccer card game to reminisce about their favorite boots. This episode is packed with banter, disbelief, and a celebration of the football culture that brings us all together—even when the pundits get it hilariously wrong. Whether you love deep dives, passionate rants, or just need a laugh about soccer “hot takes,” you’ll want to hit play! Topics covered: * FS1’s viral (and bizarre) “26 Most Influential Players” list * The state of American soccer punditry * Projecting the 2026 USMNT World Cup roster * Players of the Week and must-watch games * Favorite soccer cleats and stories from the pitch Available now on all major podcast platforms, Belly Up Sports YouTube, and wherever you get your soccer fix.

Episode 252: Dazed, Confused & World Cup Bound

Get ready for a rollercoaster of emotions as Hector Flores leads a heated, honest breakdown of the U.S. Men's National Team’s recent friendlies—losses to Belgium and Portugal—and hands out a no-punches-pulled report card alongside guest co-host Kelcey Coyne. From issues of team identity and underwhelming performances to standout players and what’s really plaguing American soccer, nothing is off-limits. The duo debates if Christian Pulisic still deserves his star status, why Weston McKennie might be the team’s true talisman, and if the so-called ‘golden generation’ is really all that golden after all. Plus: Moussa Seck joins to give the international perspective on U.S. soccer culture, and dives into the biggest storylines from the final round of World Cup qualifiers. Who’s in, who’s out, and which nations are primed to be fan favorites (and giant killers) on North American soil in 2026? The episode wraps up with Players of the Week, can’t-miss matches, and the return of Give and Go. Frustrated, hopeful, and always opinionated—this is an episode for every soccer fan who loves the chaos, passion, and unpredictability of the beautiful game on the road to the World Cup.