Joe & Ashley Cole Return With Season 2 of Could It Be Magic? | FA Cup Podcast 2025
Two of England’s most beloved football icons — Joe Cole and Ashley Cole — have reunited to launch a brand-new season of their acclaimed podcast, “Could It Be Magic?”
Backed by Carling, the official beer partner of both the Emirates FA Cup and Adobe Women’s FA Cup, this new series dives deep into football heritage, unforgettable Cup moments, and the players who made history.
After a blockbuster debut that stormed the sports podcast charts, Could It Be Magic? is returning stronger, longer, and even funnier — with ten brand-new episodes promising inside stories, expert analysis, and plenty of banter between the two former England teammates.
Season 2 Kicks Off: Jermain Defoe Joins as First Guest
The season opener doesn’t disappoint. Episode 1 welcomes Jermain Defoe, another England great and Premier League legend known for his prolific goal-scoring at Tottenham Hotspur, West Ham United, Portsmouth, and Sunderland.
In the candid chat, Defoe reflects on:
His early years in East London and the challenges of breaking into professional football.
His memorable FA Cup experiences, including dramatic goals and heartbreaking defeats.
His transition from player to mentor — and how he continues to inspire young athletes today.
Joe and Ashley bring their trademark chemistry to the table — sharing laughs, locker-room stories, and a deep sense of respect for what the FA Cup represents.
Joe Cole: “The FA Cup Is Pure Magic”
A two-time FA Cup champion, Joe Cole knows a thing or two about what it takes to lift the iconic trophy. Speaking about the return of the podcast, he said:
“I’m buzzing to be back with Ash to talk all things FA Cup. It’s such a special tournament and getting to relive some memorable moments from our careers — as well as chat with guests about theirs — is just the best gig ever.
Jermain was the perfect guest to kick things off. His passion for the game and the Cup is infectious, and it was great looking back but also forward to what’s happening this season.”
Cole’s enthusiasm is contagious, and his insight into both the men’s and women’s competitions adds an extra layer of depth for listeners.
Ashley Cole: “It’s About the Love of the Game”
For Ashley Cole, arguably one of the greatest left-backs in English football history, the podcast isn’t just about nostalgia — it’s about celebrating the heartbeat of football itself.
“It was brilliant to have Jermain on the show – he’s a natural storyteller and you can just feel his deep love for the game.
That’s what this podcast is all about – getting together with your mates and getting into the weeds of everything football. We can’t wait to reveal some of the amazing guests we’ve got lined up too… watch this space!”
With a career spanning Arsenal, Chelsea, and LA Galaxy, Ashley brings unmatched experience and honesty to every episode, offering listeners both tactical insight and behind-the-scenes stories that fans rarely hear.
Podcast Stats: From Breakout Hit to FA Cup Staple
The first season of Could It Be Magic? was a phenomenon. Within weeks of its debut:
Over 11.9 million video views were recorded from the first three episodes alone.
The show racked up more than 150,000 full episode streams.
It climbed into the Top 20 Sports Podcasts on both Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
These numbers prove what football fans already know — the chemistry between the Coles is pure gold. Their honest reflections, humour, and passion for the game have made the podcast essential listening for fans of all generations.
Brought to You by Carling: A Proud Partner of British Football
The podcast’s success has been fuelled by Carling, a name synonymous with British football. As the official beer partner of the Emirates FA Cup and Adobe Women’s FA Cup, Carling continues to back initiatives that celebrate football’s grassroots and professional legacy.
Rachel Bailey, Marketing Controller for Carling, commented:
“Carling has supported British football for over 30 years, so it’s been brilliant to work with Joe and Ashley on this show. We’re thrilled to be back for a second season.
The line-up of football legends is amazing, and we’re really looking forward to bringing in some of the players, managers, and coaches involved in this year’s FA Cup tournament across both the men’s and women’s competitions.”
This partnership underscores Carling’s commitment to connecting fans with the soul of the game — one story, one pint, one conversation at a time.
What Makes “Could It Be Magic?” So Popular
The success of Could It Be Magic? lies in its unique formula. Each episode blends:
Authentic storytelling from two FA Cup legends.
Star-studded guest appearances spanning generations of English football.
Laugh-out-loud banter and behind-the-scenes revelations.
Heartfelt reflections on victories, defeats, and the moments that shaped football culture.
Listeners don’t just get interviews — they get an insider’s view of the FA Cup, from dressing room celebrations to tactical masterclasses.
A Celebration of the FA Cup’s Timeless Magic
The FA Cup remains one of the most cherished competitions in world football — a tournament where underdogs rise, giants fall, and dreams come true.
Every episode of Could It Be Magic? captures that spirit. Whether discussing classic matches, unforgettable goals, or emotional cup runs, the show keeps the heritage of the FA Cup alive for new generations.
Season Two: What to Expect
The new season will feature ten extended episodes, each released every Thursday before each FA Cup round. Fans can look forward to:
Big-name guests: Former players, managers, and coaches who’ve shaped the FA Cup’s history.
Men’s and Women’s football stories: Equal focus on the evolving landscape of both competitions.
Exclusive insights: From the tactics board to the trophy lift.
Interactive moments: Fans can share their FA Cup memories via social media, some of which will be featured on the show.
The series will be available across Spotify, YouTube, and all major podcast platforms, ensuring fans can tune in anytime, anywhere.
Behind the Microphone: Why Joe & Ashley Work So Well
Their chemistry isn’t just nostalgia — it’s natural. The two shared England’s dressing room, trained under some of the greatest managers in football, and played on opposite sides of some of the Premier League’s fiercest rivalries.
Joe Cole – Former West Ham, Chelsea, and Liverpool star known for creativity and flair.
Ashley Cole – A serial winner with Arsenal and Chelsea, regarded as one of the best defenders of his generation.
Together, they bring a blend of banter and brilliance that feels authentic — like eavesdropping on two mates reminiscing about glory days.
Why Fans Love “Could It Be Magic?”
Football fans crave authenticity — and that’s exactly what this podcast delivers. No PR scripts. No sugarcoating. Just real football talk.
Social media feedback after Season 1 proves its reach:
“Feels like sitting in the pub with two England legends.”
“Finally, a football podcast that’s fun and insightful.”
“Joe and Ashley’s chemistry is unbeatable — every episode is a banger.”
The Broader Impact: Boosting the FA Cup and Grassroots Football
Podcasts like Could It Be Magic? play an important role beyond entertainment — they inspire young players and remind fans why the FA Cup remains magical after more than 150 years.
By featuring guests from both men’s and women’s football, Joe and Ashley also help bridge the gap between the two sides of the game, promoting equality and visibility for female athletes.
Where and When to Listen
🗓 Release Schedule: Every Thursday before each FA Cup round 📍 Platforms:
Spotify
Apple Podcasts
YouTube
Google Podcasts
And anywhere else you listen
🎧 Follow & Subscribe: Stay updated with bonus clips, behind-the-scenes videos, and guest teasers on social media using the hashtag #CouldItBeMagicPodcast.
Conclusion: A Must-Listen for Every Football Fan
With its mix of humour, heart, and heritage, Could It Be Magic? Season 2 cements Joe and Ashley Cole as more than just football legends — they’re now among the sport’s most engaging storytellers.
Whether you’re a die-hard FA Cup enthusiast or a casual listener looking for authentic football chat, this series promises to deliver nostalgia, insight, and pure entertainment.
