Hometown FC Podcast #8: Darnell Simpson-Tomlinson & Sam Al-Basith

In this episode of Hometown FC, we sit down with two of the most influential architects in modern player development.

Darnell Simpson-Tomlinson, Chelsea Academy coach and founder of Monster Mentality, opens up about his journey from South London to training Premier League and Serie A ballers like Levi Colwill and Billy Gilmour. His mindset-first approach is changing the way elite players train, prepare, and lead.

On the other side of the pitch, Sam Al Basith, former LA Galaxy academy coach and founder of So LA, shares what it takes to identify and elevate U.S. Youth National Team and pro-level talent. His holistic development hub in Los Angeles is shaping some of the most gifted young players in the country.

Together, Darnell and Sam talk growing up together in South London, bridging international football cultures, and what it truly means to build players for the future—not just the moment.

This one’s for the coaches, the grinders, the dreamers, and the culture shapers.
 Tap in. This episode is elite.