The Athletic FC Podcast

Manchester City have had a disappointing season compared to their usually high standards. But the summer window offers Pep Guardiola the chance to rebuild. So which players are they targeting?  And will it be enough for them to be Premier League contenders once again? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Sam Lee & Phil Hay Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou and Nick Thomson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Trent Alexander-Arnold is leaving Liverpool. So why has he decided to leave on a free transfer? And with Real Madrid the likely destination, what makes them a better option? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: James Pearce, Mario Cortegana and Tomas Hill Lopez-Menchero Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Manchester United and Tottenham’s hopes of Champions League football next season are well and truly alive after comprehensive victories in their Europa League semi-final first legs. While Nottingham Forest’s dreams of qualifying for Europe’s elite competition via the Premier League have been dented, after losing 2-0 at home to Brentford. Adam Leventhal is joined by The Athletic's Manchester United correspondent Carl Anka, Spurs correspondent Jack Pitt-Brooke and football writer Tim Spiers to reflect on Thursday night's action and what it means for the clubs chasing European football. Host: Adam Leventhal With: Carl Anka, Jack Pitt-Brooke, Tim Spiers Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Wrexham are now just one step away from the Premier League having now achieved three successive promotions from National League to Championship. How have they managed to climb so quickly and when can we expect to see them in the top flight? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Richard Sutcliffe, Matt Slater and Felipe Cardenas Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Arsenal have it all to do in Paris after a 1-0 defeat in the first leg of their Champions League semi-final tie. So how did Luis Enrique’s PSG get the better of the Gunners? And can Arsenal stage a comeback in the second leg? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Art de Roché & Stuart James Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Champions League semi-finals get underway tonight as Arsenal welcome PSG to the Emirates Stadium. The winner of that tie faces either Barcelona or Inter in the final. So how are the four teams shaping up, and who are the favourites to win it? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Max Callegari, Tomas Hill-Lopez Menchero, Tom Williams, Jordan Campbell Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou and Nick Thomson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Liverpool are Premier League champions after securing their second title in five years at home to Tottenham Hotspur, their first in front of supporters since 1990. So how has Arne Slot done it and what needs to be done for Liverpool to stay at the top next season? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: James Pearce, Andy Jones and David Ornstein Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With the NFL Draft looming large this weekend, we decided to take a spin on the format and bring it into the world of the Premier League.  What would it look like if we held an All-Time Premier League Draft? Which legends go first and can anyone build the perfect squad? Host: Duncan Alexander With: Jacob Whitehead, Oli Kay, and Jack Lang Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou & Liam Warburton Premier League Draft article: https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6301841/2025/04/24/premier-league-draft/  Teams: Jacob: Cech, Azpilicueta, Van Dijk, Kompany, Baines, Rodri, Lampard, Silva, Salah, Rooney, Giggs Jack: Alisson, Walker, Ferdinand, Campbell, Irwin, Kante, Fabregas, De Bruyne, Hazard, Shearer, Henry Duncan: Ederson, Ferreira, Adams, Vidic, Robertson, Keane, Toure, Beckham, Bergkamp, Aguero, Suarez Oli: Schmeichel, Alexander-Arnold, Carvalho, Terry, Cole, Vieira, Gerrard, Scholes, Ronaldo, Kane, Bale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

West Ham sit 17th as they prepare to face Brighton this weekend.  So how have they ended up in this position, and how much is it down to the approach of manager Graham Potter?  Host: Adam Leventhal With: Roshane Thomas, Liam Tharme Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

At just 20 years old and with only 22 Premier League starts, Dean Huijsen is attracting interest from the likes of Liverpool, Arsenal, Chelsea and Real Madrid.  So what makes him so special, and  who might trigger his £50m release clause? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by senior data analyst Mark Carey and lead writer for The Athletic FC newsletter Phil Hay to discuss the Spanish international. Football correspondent David Ornstein as well as James Pearce, Liam Twomey and Guillermo Rai also drop by with their insights to the level of interest held in Huijsen across the Premier League and beyond with the Bournemouth defender set to have his pick of a number of clubs this summer. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Mark Carey and Phil Hay Contributions: David Ornstein, James Pearce, Liam Twomey and Guillermo Rai Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After their Champions League exit, Carlo Ancelotti is expected to leave Real Madrid this summer So… when will it happen?  And is Xabi Alonso the inevitable replacement?   Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Guillermo Rai & Tomas Hill Lopez-Menchero Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou & John Rogers Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On Monday, Leeds United reclaimed their seat at the top table after two years in the Championship So, what lessons can they learn from their Premier League relegation last time out? And how can they stay up for the long haul this time? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Phil Hay, Beren Cross Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou & Nick Thomson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

They left it late, but Chelsea grabbed a crucial win in their bid to secure a top five finish, as Tyrique George and Pedro Neto saw the Blues come from behind to win 2-1 at Fulham. Victory at Craven Cottage keeps them in the mix for a return to European football’s elite competition next season. But with fan discontent growing, how important is Champions League qualification for Enzo Maresca’s Chelsea future? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Chelsea correspondent Liam Twomey to discuss the importance of the win as well as our football correspondent David Ornstein to analyse the pressure on Maresca and look ahead to the summer transfer window. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Liam Twomey and David Ornstein Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There are six games to go in the Premier League, so we’re focusing on the race for Champions League football as Aston Villa take on Newcastle United, while Manchester United and Spurs kept their dreams of qualifying for next season’s competition alive with victories in the Europa League. Mark Critchley joins us to talk about a ridiculous night at Old Trafford that saw Ruben Amorim's side score two goals in injury time of extra time, to beat Lyon 5-4 on the night and 7-6 on aggregate. We hear from Jay Harris who was in Frankfurt where a Dominic Solanke penalty saw Spurs win 1-0, so Ange Postecoglou isn't going anywhere quite yet. The Athletic's Newcastle writer Chris Waugh and Aston Villa writer Jacob Tanswell are with us to preview their respective side's clash at Villa Park on Saturday evening, in what could be a pivotal game in the race for Champions League football. Host: Matt Davies-Adams With: Chris Waugh, Jacob Tanswell, Mark Critchley, Jay Harris Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Arsenal are through to the semi-finals of the Champions League for only the third time in their history - and they had to beat the holders to do it. So how far does that 5-1 win on aggregate propel Mikel Arteta’s project forward?  And crucially, can they now go all the way in the Champions League? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Art de Roche, Guillermo Rai, Charlie Eccleshare Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou & John Rogers Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Through to the semi-finals of the Champions League, Barcelona are on course for a treble this season. So how has Hansi Flick imprinted his style on this team?  And will he stay at Barca in the long term? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Pol Ballus, Thom Harris Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou & Simon Watts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Has the Premier League been a little boring this season? Especially compared to a thrilling round in the Champions League knockout phase. Have Pep Guardiola’s complex systems killed creativity?  Or is the entertainment just coming from different places — tighter mid-table races, smarter tactics, and more goals than ever? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Jack Pitt-Brooke & Duncan Alexander Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Manchester United & Chelsea are just two of the clubs interested in Ipswich Town’s star striker Liam Delap. So with a summer transfer auction on the cards - where will Delap end up?  Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Laurie Whitwell & Simon Johnson Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mohamed Salah has signed a new two-year contract at Liverpool, while Virgil van Dijk looks set to do the same.  With owners FSG usually reluctant to hand out lucrative contract extensions to ageing players, why have they made an exception and what does it mean for Liverpool’s summer transfer business? The Athletic's David Ornstein and Liverpool writer James Pearce join Matt Davies-Adams to discuss the latest on the Liverpool contract saga. Host: Matt Davies-Adams With: David Ornstein, James Pearce Producer: Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Since Chelsea’s takeover by Todd Boehly and Clearlake capital, the Blues have spent - unlike any other club bringing in the likes of Moises Caicedo, Enzo Fernandez and Joao Felix. Despite their massive outlays, Chelsea announced a £128.4m profit for the year to June 2024. So how have they done it - and have they found another PSR loophole? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's football finance writer Chris Weatherspoon and Chelsea correspondent Liam Twomey to discuss the Blues' latest accounts, sale of their women's team within the ownership group and assess how it will impact their summer transfer activity. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Chris Weatherspoon and Liam Twomey Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

European champions Real Madrid were rocked by a riveting Arsenal display in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final tie last night With Madrid facing an uphill task in both the Champions League and La Liga - will they bring in more superstars this summer to bolster their squad?   And will Carlo Ancelotti still be the man to make it all gel together next season? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Guillermo Rai, Tomas Hill Lopez-Menchero James McNicholas Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Luis Enrique’s young and vibrant PSG side are turning heads with their exuberant brand of football. They’ve already wrapped up the Ligue 1 title with six games left to spare - and they face Aston Villa in the Champions League quarter-finals this week. So is Enrique one of the most underrated coaches of the modern era? And are PSG finally ready to win the Champions League? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Tom Williams, Dermot Corrigan Producer: Mike Stavrou and Nick Thomson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After 10 years, 13 major honours and six Premier League titles Kevin De Bruyne is leaving Manchester City. So where does he rank amongst the best to play in the Premier League and how do City go about replacing him? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's football correspondent David Ornstein and Man City writer Sam Lee as they share their reaction to the news, reflect on the brilliance the Belgian has brought to the Premier League and assess how Pep Guardiola's side move on from his departure. Plus football data writer Thom Harris drops by to remember some of De Bruyne's most crucial moments in a Man City shirt. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: David Ornstein and Sam Lee Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Manchester City travel to Old Trafford on Sunday, where Manchester United will be hoping to complete a league double over their city rivals for the first time in five years. With Ruben Amorim's side lacking a cutting edge up front and Pep Guardiola without the injured Erling Haaland, where will both managers look for solutions in attack? Adam Leventhal is joined by The Athletic's football Manchester United writer Carl Anka and Manchester City writer Sam Lee to preview Sunday's derby. Host: Adam Leventhal With: Carl Anka, Sam Lee Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Despite running Liverpool close, it was a familiar feeling for David Moyes at Anfield, as Diogo Jota scored the only goal as Everton feel to defeat to their neighbours. Defeat to Liverpool makes it 22 visits to Anfield without tasting victory as a manager. But with upshoots of encouragement and the move to their new stadium on the horizon, do Everton have reasons to be optimistic? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Everton correspondent Paddy Boyland and senior football writer Oli Kay to discuss the impact Moyes' return to the blue half of Merseyside has had ahead of what could be a defining summer prior to their move to their new stadium. We want to hear about you and your podcast habits. Go to theathletic.com/athletic/survey25 to fill out a quick survey and be in with the chance of winning £/$100 Amazon vouchers. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Paddy Boyland and Oli Kay Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With the contracts of key players up for renewal in the not too distant future, and a big summer window on the horizon, Arsenal’s new sporting director Andrea Berta has plenty to do. So where do Arsenal’s priorities lie this summer? And could Viktor Gyokeres be the answer to their number 9 dilemma? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: David Ornstein & James McNicholas Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The days of Juventus winning Serie A season after season feel like they’re long gone. Last week, Thiago Motta was sacked with Juve languishing outside of the top four places. Add to that, they’re out of the Champions League and Coppa Italia as well. So… what has gone wrong at Juventus, and how do they rebuild? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Max Callegari & Carl Anka Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou & Nick Thomson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tottenham Hospur have made Andoni Iraola their top target if they decide to make a managerial change. Having taken his side to the last eight of the FA Cup - and with a European finish still possible in the Premier League. What more can Iraola do at Bournemouth? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by football data writer Thom Harris who was at Bournemouth's FA Cup quarter-final defeat at the hands of Manchester City, Tottenham Hotspur correspondent Jack Pitt-Brooke and The Athletic FC's newsletter lead writer Phil Hay to discuss the attraction of Spurs to Iraola as well as analyse the work the Spaniard has done on the south coast. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Thom Harris, Jack Pitt-Brooke and Phil Hay Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In Los Angeles, California, four nations collided in a football tournament with an inescapable geopolitical backdrop. Canada, Mexico and Panama have all found themselves in the crosshairs of President Donald Trump within his first 100 days in office, and they all met, with the US, in the Nations League finals. Adam Leventhal has been looking into what happens when the sport and politics are thrust together like this speaking with the players, stakeholders and fans to find out how they feel about the various subplots surrounding this tournament and the 2026 World Cup. How do the co-hosts put on a united front when so much of the talk is of division? Host: Adam Leventhal Exec Prod: Abi Paterson Featuring audio from: The Daily, The Headlines, CBS, NBC, CSPAN, ESPN Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The summer transfer window doesn’t open until mid-June, yet Chelsea are not waiting around, having already agreed deals for Dario Essugo, and Geovany Quenda. So why are Chelsea doing their business so early, and should other clubs be following suit? Host: Adam Leventhal With: Simon Johnson, Tim Spiers Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Jay Beale We want your feedback. Go to: theathletic.com/athletic/survey25 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

One of football’s worst kept secrets could soon be resolved as Real Madrid look to close a deal to sign Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold. So how did it get to this, the Reds losing a homegrown asset in the prime of his career on a free transfer and where will he fit at the Bernabeu? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic’s football correspondent David Ornstein, Liverpool correspondent James Pearce and Phil Hay to delve into the detail around the increased activity regarding Alexander-Arnold’s future. Plus, the panel are joined by Real Madrid writer Guillermo Rai to discuss the possibility of a move to the Bernabeu including the use of the media in persuading players to head to the Spanish capital. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: David Ornstein, James Pearce, Phil Hay and Guillermo Rai Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This is the third and final part of our multi-club ownership series.  We’ve learned how multi-club operations work and provided some practical examples from the world of football. Today - we answer your questions on the effectiveness and future of MCOs. So, can we say for certain multi-club ownership is here to stay? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Matt Slater  Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou We want to hear about your podcast habits. Go to theathletic.com/athletic/survey25 to fill out a short survey and be in with the chance of winning £/$100 Amazon vouchers Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Yesterday we heard part one of our multi-club ownership eries, as we learned about how MCOs work - and their purpose. Today, we get some real-world examples, hearing from inside the operations whose clubs include sides from the Premier League and Major League Soccer. So what is it like to own and manage multiple clubs in different leagues and sometimes in different sports? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Matt Slater, Tim Bezbatchenko & Larry Berg Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou & Nick Thomson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Whether it’s Manchester City, Chelsea or even Bournemouth more and more Premier League clubs are sitting as part of multi-club ownership portfolios. But why? How do multi-club ownership groups work, are they purely about making money, or do they help guarantee success on-the-pitch? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by Matt Slater for the first of our three-part series in multi-club ownership including Matt speaking with AJ Swoboda, Managing Director in the Americas for consultancy firm Twenty First Group about the role of MCOs within the global game. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Matt Slater Featuring: AJ Swoboda Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Thomas Tuchel’s first England squad selection has raised a few eyebrows, most notably the inclusion of both Jordan Henderson and Kyle Walker. During media duties this week, the England manager put an emphasis on physicality and pressing, a tactic not commonly associated with international football. He also voiced that he felt England were more afraid to drop out of Euro 2024 than having the hunger and excitement to win it. So is Tuchel's first squad a step forward or step back, and can his more proactive style of management win England the World Cup? Host: Matt Davies-Adams With: Jack Pitt-Brooke, Tim Spiers Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

From the evolution of the profession to the impact of VAR, the pressures officials face has never been greater. Today we’re joined by a man who’s refereed at the highest level of European football - both in the club and international game. With fan-fueled conspiracies on the rise and scrutiny at an all-time high, how difficult is it to be a referee? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by former Premier League and FIFA referee Mark Clattenburg as well as The Athletic's senior writer Rory Smith to discuss Mark's career, his time at Nottingham Forest as well as the impact conspiracy has on officiating. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Mark Clattenburg and Rory Smith Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Raphinha is having an incredible season for Barcelona. After being pushed towards the Nou Camp exit door in the summer the Brazilian has grown into one of Hansi Flick’s most important players. So how has Raphinha reinvented himself to become one of Europe’s most effective players?  Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Phil Hay, Tomas Hill Lopez-Menchero & Laia Cervello Herrero Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou & Nick Thomson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s been a disappointing week for Liverpool. Just days after their Champions League exit at the hands of PSG, came a hammer blow at Wembley. After an abject display in the League Cup final defeat to Newcastle, we’re asking if Liverpool have run out of steam. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Simon Hughes, Andy Jones & Phil Hay Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After 70 years of waiting, Newcastle United finally have their hands on domestic silverware after beating Liverpool 2-1 in the Carabao Cup Final at Wembley. So how did Eddie Howe’s side make such light work of Liverpool? And will success at Wembley kick start a new era of success on Tyneside? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Chris Waugh and Jacob Whitehead, who were both at Wembley, to discuss the significance of the occasion, and the role of a number of Newcastle's individual players. Later, they ask whether League Cup success can provide the launchpad to greater riches. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Chris Waugh, Jacob Whitehead and Mark Carey Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The first piece of domestic silverware will be contested between Liverpool and Newcastle when they meet in the Carabao Cup final on Sunday. Eddie Howe's Newcastle are looking to end a 70 year drought, will the occasion get the better of them as it did in 2023? And after being dumped out of the Champions League by PSG midweek, how will Arne Slot's side respond in his first final at Liverpool? Adam Leventhal is joined by The Athletic's football writer Tim Spiers, Newcastle writer Chris Waugh and Liverpool writer Andy Jones to preview Sunday's tie. Host: Adam Leventhal With: Tim Spiers, Chris Waugh, Andy Jones Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On Wednesday night Atletico Madrid found a new way to suffer Champions League heartbreak at the hands of Real Madrid. Diego Simeone's side were knocked out courtesy of penalties after Julian Alvarez had his effort rule out for a 'two-touch' kick. From VAR, to penalty shootouts, to near misses, Atleti have once again failed to find a way past their neighbours. So why is there always something stopping Simeone’s and his team from getting over the line in this competition?  Adam Leventhal is joined by The Athletic's Tomas Hill Lopez-Menchero and Phil Hay to reflect on a chaotic night at the Metropolitano, discuss Atleti's 'El Pupas' curse and analyse how Simeone lifts his side for the La Liga title run-in. Host: Adam Leventhal With: Phil Hay and Tomas Hill Lopez-Menchero Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On Tuesday, Manchester United announced that they intend to build a 100,000-capacity new stadium rather than redevelop their existing Old Trafford home. The news came shortly after Sir Jim Ratcliffe stated the club could run out of money by Christmas without cost-cutting. So, with concerns around Manchester United’s finances, how would this development be paid for, and how will it affect their on pitch ambitions? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Matt Slater and Mark Critchley Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s clear that Nottingham Forest are the real deal this season.. So can they hold on and qualify for the Champions League next season? And is their success down to the system or their raft of standout players? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Paul Taylor, Nick Miller, Ahmed Walid Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producers: Guy Clarke & Nick Thomson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Not for the first time Manchester United have proven they still have glimpses of class in the team - as shown by Bruno Fernandes in their 1-1 draw with Arsenal. Despite sitting 14th in the Premier League, the Europa League still offers a backdoor into next season’s Champions League. So how crucial is European qualification to Ruben Amorim’s plans for an Old Trafford overhaul? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Manchester United writer Laurie Whitwell and Phil Hay to discuss the Ruben Amorim 'project' at Old Trafford to date while Mark Critchley also drops in to explain the financial need to secure European qualification to help finance a summer overhaul of the playing squad. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Laurie Whitwell, Phil Hay and Mark Critchley Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Online searches for fake football shirts have gone up by over 500% since 2021, with the Premier league counterfeit market worth over £180m. But what damage could they be causing you and others? Adam Leventhal has spent the last nine months investigating the illicit trade of counterfeits, and uncovered some shocking details along the way. Host: Adam Leventhal Mixing: Jay Beale Executive Producer: Abi Paterson Featuring footage from: Sky News, Arsenal, Manchester United, Aston Villa, sdpeasyy, Culture Force Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Arsenal face Manchester United on Sunday, looking to win consecutive away games at Old Trafford for the first time since 1979.  This week, Mikel Arteta’s side thumped PSV 7-1 in the Champions League, meaning there will be no distractions as they look to build on an impressive attacking display.  After a 1-1 draw against Real Sociedad, Ruben Amorim will not be afforded that luxury. Manchester United’s hopes of silverware and Champions League qualification rest on their Europa League campaign, will the United boss have one eye on Thursday’s second leg?  Arsenal writer Art de Roché and Manchester writer Mark Critchley join Adam Leventhal to preview Sunday’s tie.  Plus we check in with the club podcasts across The Athletic FC, setting you up for the big fixtures elsewhere. Host: Adam Leventhal With: Art de Roché, Mark Critchley Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Alexander Isak is one of Europe’s most prolific strikers having scored 17 goals in his last 17 games since the start of December. The Swede has helped fire Newcastle United to Wembley and has also put them in the mix for Champions League qualification. But the question is can they deliver the success needed to keep him at St James’ Park? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Chris Waugh and Jacob Whitehead to explore what it is that makes Isak the player he is as well as the cult hero he's become on Tyneside before exploring how difficult, or not, it may be to keep hold of him this summer. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Chris Waugh and Jacob Whitehead Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There’s a new wonderkid on the block, and his name is Florian Wirtz.  He has established himself as the man to carry the creative responsibility for Bayer Leverkusen. But how does he measure up against the world’s best in his position?   And is there a danger in becoming over-reliant on one player to make things happen? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Phil Hay & Mark Carey Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

No matter where he’s managing, Jose Mourinho simply cannot stay out of the headlines. His time managing in the Turkish Super Lig has seen more of the same. So is this ‘typical Jose’? Or is he a victim of the chaos that surrounds him? Host: Adam Leventhal With: Rory Smith & Andy Mitten Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou & Nick Thomson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Last week, David Ornstein reported that Arsenal are looking to conclude their search for a new Sporting Director by the end of March. So, with the search set to conclude this month, who is the ideal candidate for the role and could this appointment be the missing link to help Arsenal finally end their wait for a Premier League title? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic’s football correspondent David Ornstein and lead writer for The Athletic FC newsletter Phil Hay to analyse what the Gunners are looking for and who could be the man to replace Edu in trying to help Mikel Arteta bring silverware to the Emirates Stadium. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: David Ornstein and Phil Hay Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With just six points separating Nottingham Forest in 3rd and Aston Villa in 10th, European football is up for grabs in the Premier League. Adam Leventhal is joined by The Athletic's football writers Tim Spiers and Nick Miller to discuss which side needs European qualification the most. After wins midweek, Manchester City and Chelsea sit 4th and 5th respectively, are any of the chasing pack consistent enough to earn Champions League football? With Manchester United and Tottenham languishing in the bottom half of the table, which clubs are eyeing up the Europa and Conference League? Host: Adam Leventhal With: Tim Spiers, Nick Miller Featuring: Paul Taylor, Sam Lee, Liam Twomey, Chris Waugh, Jacob Tanswell Editor: Nick Thomson Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After a week in which they were dumped out of the Champions League and given a dose of reality by Liverpool, Man City got back to winning ways, beating Tottenham Hotspur 1-0 courtesy of Erling Haaland on his return from injury. So, with Haaland back from injury and their new recruits bedding in is the City rebuild not as big a job as we thought it might be? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Man City correspondent Sam Lee as well as Jack Pitt-Brooke to analyse City's performance at the Tottenham Hotspur season before assessing the state of their squad rebuild. New signings Abdukodir Khusanov, Omar Marmoush and Nico Gonzalez are all discussed as well as the ageing spine of Guardiola's dynastic team before questioning whether the Spaniard can return City to their previous standards? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Sam Lee and Jack Pitt-Brooke Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Marcus Rashford and Marco Asensio couldn’t save Aston Villa last night as they lost 4-1 away at Crystal Palace. The two marquee signings were brought in to boost Unai Emery’s side at the business end of the season. But are Rashford & Asensio the solution to Villa’s problems right now?  Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Jacob Tanswell & Rory Smith  Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Last season marked the first time since 1998 that all three promoted Premier League teams were relegated. It looks like history may repeat itself this season, after another miserable weekend for Ipswich Town, Leicester City and Southampton. So will all three go down?  And if so, what does it say about the gap between the Premier League and the Championship? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Stu James & Phil Hay Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou & Nick Thomson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Liverpool have moved 11 points clear in the Premier League title race with Mohamed Salah leading the way in their 2-0 win over Manchester City. His goal and assists are edging him towards records set by Thierry Henry and Kevin De Bruyne. Mohamed Salah is one of the Premier League’s Greatest but could he be THE greatest? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by Oli Kay, who was at the Etihad on Sunday for The Athletic as well as Simon Hughes, author of Chasing Salah: The Biography of Mohamed Salah. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Oli Kay and Simon Hughes Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ever thought about how elite football clubs actually go about using data to analyse and recruit players? Well, The Athletic FC Tactics Podcast has the answers you need. Paul Power from sports data company, Skillcorner, joins the show to chat about how clubs really use data in recruitment and analysis. Plus… what the future could hold in terms of football’s relationship with AI? Host: Michael Bailey With: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Paul Power Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Manchester City host Liverpool on Sunday in what could be a decisive game in this season’s title race.  Pep Guardiola will be hoping to fix Manchester City’s out of possession problems, that contributed to them being dumped out of the Champions League midweek.  After consecutive draws away from home in the Premier League, can Arne Slot’s side make a statement at a ground they have won just once at in their previous 15 attempts?  The Athletic’s senior data analyst Mark Carey and data writer Thom Harris join Matt Davies-Adams to preview Sunday’s clash.  Plus we check in with the club podcasts across The Athletic FC, setting you up for the big fixtures elsewhere.  Host: Matt Davies-Adams With: Mark Carey, Thom Harris Featuring: James Pearce, Sam Lee Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On a night Man City had no margin for error, Kylian Mbappe took away any hope scoring his first hat-trick at the Bernabeu for Real Madrid. With his treble, the Frenchman became just the fourth player to score a Champions League knockout hat-trick for Madrid following in the footsteps of the likes of Ronaldo Nazario, Karim Benzema and of course Cristiano Ronaldo. So can Mbappe reach Cristano Ronaldo's levels at Real Madrid? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Real Madrid writer Guillermo Rai and Tomas Hill Lopez-Menchero to analyse the win over Man City and how fair Carlo Ancelotti's side can go in this season's Champions League. Plus, French football writer Tom Williams drops by to discuss Mbappe's evolution and his use of speed through his career. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Guillermo Rai, Tomas Hill Lopez-Menchero and Tom Williams Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Defeat at Spurs last weekend left Manchester United in 15th place in the table  Next up they take on a resurgent Everton managed by the first person challenged with bringing back the good times at Old Trafford. So from David Moyes to Ruben Amorim, United seems to be stuck in a cycle of underperformance.  So what is preventing them from moving forward? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Adam Crafton, Oli Kay, Carl Anka & Charlotte Harpur Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Premier League’s financial rules will still be in place for next season despite plans to change them. Teams like Manchester United, Aston Villa and Newcastle blame these rules for stopping them spending heavily on new players. So why the delay for the new rules? And how exactly do they impact clubs and their summer transfer plans? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Matt Slater & Jacob Whitehead Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou & Nick Thomson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On Friday night Chelsea suffered a fourth defeat in eight Premier League games, going down 3-0 away to Brighton & Hove Albion. Having slipped from fourth to sixth, frustrations have come to the fore including from star player Cole Palmer. So, has Maresca ball gone flat? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by Chelsea writer Liam Twomey and senior football writer Oli Kay to analyse Chelsea's recent shortcomings, discuss the form and contributions of Palmer as well as assess whether or not Chelsea are improving under Maresca. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Liam Twomey and Oli Kay Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The self destruction derby? The banter bout? El Calamitico?  The Athletic’s Manchester United writer Carl Anka and Tottenham writer Jack Pitt-Brooke join football writer Tim Spiers and host Adam Leventhal to preview Tottenham vs Manchester United.  With the sides sitting 13th and 14th respectively, who will be holding the crisis baton come Sunday evening?  Plus we check in with some of the club podcasts across The Athletic FC, setting you up for the big fixtures elsewhere.  Host: Adam Leventhal With: Carl Anka, Jack Pitt-Brooke, Tim Spiers Featuring: James McNicholas, James Pearce Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Goodison Park’s final Merseyside derby delivered with James Tarkowski popping up with the stoppage time equaliser for Everton in their 2-2 draw with Premier League leaders, Liverpool. Despite the draw sending Arne Slot's side seven points clear at the top of the Premier League could the draw at Goodson disrupt their title charge? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by Stu James and Andy Jones to pick the bones out of the Merseyside derby, the context of the wider title race as well as the run of games to come for Slot's side. Arsenal writer James McNicholas also joins to discuss the impact of Kai Havertz's hamstring injury for Arsenal, given Mikel Arteta's side are the closest challengers to land the Premier League title. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Andy Jones, Stu James and James McNicholas Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tonight’s Merseyside derby will be the last ever at Goodison Park - and there have been some absolute belters in the past. So what are Everton losing in moving from Goodison? And what are the benefits of football clubs switching to a new home?  Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Paddy Boyland, Rory Smith and Adrian Clarke Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Last week, Santos fans welcomed back club legend Neymar after 12 years away. So why is he back in Brazil, why did it go so wrong in Saudi Arabia? And how hard is it for players to live up to exorbitant price tags? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Natalie Gedra and Phil Hay Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou and Nick Thomson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the space of just four days, Tottenham Hotspur have been knocked out of both the Carabao Cup and FA Cup at the hands of Liverpool and Aston Villa. It means their hopes of ending their 17-year trophy drought now rest solely on the Europa League. So where do Spurs and Ange Postecoglou go from here?  Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Tottenham Hotspur correspondent Jack Pitt-Brooke and lead writer for The Athletic FC newsletter, Phil Hay, while Jay Harris also drops by to react to Ange Postecoglou's post-match press conference having been at Sunday's defeat to Aston Villa. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Jack Pitt-Brooke and Phil Hay Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The first piece of silverware in 2025 will be contested between Newcastle and Liverpool, when they meet in the Carabao Cup final.  The Athletic's senior writer George Caulkin joins Tim Spiers and host Adam Leventhal to discuss whether Eddie Howe's side can finally end their 70 year trophy drought.   Plus we check in with some of the club podcasts across The Athletic FC, setting you up for the FA Cup fourth round.  Host: Adam Leventhal With: George Caulkin, Tim Spiers Featuring: James McNicholas, James Pearce, Andy Mitten, Simon Johnson Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We're joined by UK Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, Lisa Nandy to discuss the introduction of an independent football regulator within English football. Whether it’s financial mismanagement, questionable ownership, or lack of accountability - football in England has faced some huge challenges in recent years which is why the British government, wants to appoint an independent regulator. So why are the Premier League and its member clubs unhappy with the plan and are the concerns of fans really at the heart of all this, as all sides claim? Ayo Akinwolere is also joined by The Athletic's senior football news reporter Matt Slater and Phil Hay, lead writer of The Athletic FC newsletter. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Lisa Nandy MP, Matt Slater and Phil Hay Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After Bayer Leverkusen’s miraculous title-win last season, this season it seems to be business as usual, with Bayern Munich six points clear of Leverkusen at the top of the table. So, can anyone stop Bayern reestablishing themselves as the dominant force in the Bundesliga?  And is Vincent Kompany creating a side that are serious contenders for Champions League glory?  Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Jan Åge Fjørtoft & Seb Stafford-Bloor Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The January transfer window has officially shut. We saw Marcus Rashford move to Aston Villa on loan, while Manchester City brought in a much-needed midfielder in Nico Gonzalez. So… which teams were the winners and losers in the window? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: David Ornstein, Rory Smith and Jacob Tanswell Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou & Nick Thomson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Liverpool legend Alan Hansen who famously said "you can't win anything with kids" Yet on Sunday Arsenal’s teenagers took centre stage as they dismantled the champions with both Myles Lewis-Skelly and Ethan Nwaneri getting on the scoresheet. So can Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal win anything with kids? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's James McNicholas and Phil Hay to discuss the 5-1 win over Man City. Art De Roche also drops by to discuss the emergence of the likes of Lewis-Skelly and Nwaneri. Meanwhile, The Athletic's football correspondent David Ornstein also gives his thoughts on the impact the youngsters have had on the club's recruitment plans along with the pressure of their pursuit for a striker. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: James McNicholas, Phil Hay, Art De Roche and David Ornstein Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Football fans are desperate for transfer news - and it's often bigger than the sport itself. Open twice a year - in January and the summer - the transfer window changes the game. But what actually goes on when deals are made? Join Adam Leventhal as he goes behind the scenes at training grounds, stadiums and offices to explain the anatomy of a transfer and to breakdown the complex process of what a player goes through when they move from club to club. Host: Adam Leventhal Exec Prod: Abi Paterson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Arsenal host Manchester City on Sunday in what some are called the 'stay humble' derby. The last time these sides met was back in September's thrilling 2-2 draw, where things boiled over at full time. The Athletic's Arsenal writer James McNicholas and Manchester City writer Sam Lee join Tim Spiers and Adam Leventhal to preview Sunday's clash. Plus we check in with some of the club podcasts across The Athletic FC and set you up for the key games elsewhere. Host: Adam Leventhal With: James McNicholas, Sam Lee, Tim Spiers Featuring: Simon Hughes, James Maw Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On an evening of mayhem across Europe, Man City got the job done and avoided Champions League elimination, beating Club Brugge 3-1 to progress into the knockout phase. But is the prospect of Real Madrid or Bayern Munich in the play-off something Pep Guardiola's side will relish? Elsewhere, with Jhon Duran set to leave for Saudi Arabia and Arsenal interested in Ollie Watkins, could Aston Villa’s front line look a little different in the knockout stages? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's James Horncastle and Phil Hay to reflect on an action-packed final night of the league phase of the revamped Champions League, while Aston Villa correspondent Jacob Tanswell joins to discuss the latest around both Duran and Watkins. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: James Horncastle, Phil Hay and Jacob Tanswell Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur are languishing in the bottom half of the table - they sit in 12th and 15th place respectively.  Tough times have fallen on two of the ‘Big Six’ - the traditional heavyweights of English football. So in terms of both on-pitch and off-pitch matters, does the idea of those aforementioned powerhouse clubs dominating the Premier League still ring true?  Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Rory Smith, Tim Spiers, Matt Slater Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As revealed by David Ornstein on today’s Transfer DealSheet, Aston Villa could be tempted to sell Jhon Duran for around 80 million pounds. That valuation of the Villa striker got us thinking - what makes a top No.9 in 2025? And with many teams wanting an elite striker - why is it so hard to find them? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Mark Carey, Phil Hay & David Ornstein Executive Producer: Abi Paterson Producer: Mike Stavrou & Nick Thomson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A smashed TV, a lack of cash, and more box office quotes from Ruben Amorim who told the media after his side's 1-0 win at Fulham he would prefer to name his 63-year-old goalkeeping coach Jorge Vital on the bench ahead of Marcus Rashford. Having made it four wins from five, are Man United showing signs of improvement under Amorim? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Manchester United correspondent Laurie Whitwell and Mark Critchley with Charlotte Harpur also dropping by to discuss Amorim's handling of the media and his man-management. Plus, with a week left of the January transfer window there's a focus on United's finances and whether they will be able to spend their way back up the Premier League table. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Laurie Whitwell, Mark Critchley and Charlotte Harpur Executive Producer: Abi Paterson Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Manchester City host Chelsea at the Etihad on Saturday and with just two points separating the sides this could be a key battle in the race for the top four. Pep Guardiola will be looking to get back on track after seeing his side throw away a two goal lead in the Champions League midweek, losing 4-2 to PSG at the Parc des Princes, with issues in midfield an ongoing problem. After already spending more than €140m in the January transfer window, do Manchester City need further additions? Following five Premier League games without a victory, Chelsea got back to winning ways on Monday beating Wolves 3-1 at Stamford Bridge, but how does Enzo Maresca get his forwards firing again? Plus we check in with the club podcasts across The Athletic FC and look ahead to a fixture that nobody would've predicted being quite so exciting when the season kicked off; Bournemouth vs Nottingham Forest. Host: Michael Bailey With: Tim Spiers, Thom Harris Featuring: Sam Lee, Simon Johnson, Andy Mitten, Laurie Whitwell, James Pearce, James McNicholas Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Among the tech billionaires, cabinet nominees and former leaders as Donald Trump was sworn in as U.S. president was the most powerful man in football - FIFA president Gianni Infantino…. So, with both the Club World Cup and World Cup taking place in the USA in the next 18 months.  What impact will Trump and his policies have on football over the next four years? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Adam Crafton in New York, Felipe Cardenas in Atlanta and Women's Sports Lead, in Burlington, Vermont, Meg Linehan to analyse and debate Trump's role in football, relationship with Infantino as well as assess what his legacy on the sport could be at the end of his time in office. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Adam Crafton, Felipe Cardenas and Meg Linehan Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Andoni Iraola’s Bournemouth produced one of the performances of the season as they demolished Newcastle at the weekend. They are now seventh in the Premier League and eyeing up European football for next season. So how much of their success is down to Iraola - and will they be able to keep hold of him for much longer? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Jon Mackenzie, Phil Hay, Dermot Corrigan Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Last night, Chelsea ended their winless run with a comfortable 3-1 victory over Wolves. But despite spending more than a billion pounds assembling their squad - are Chelsea still light in certain areas? And are we to expect a flurry of transfer activity at Stamford Bridge this month? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Liam Twomey, Phil Hay & David Ornstein Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou and Nick Thomson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tottenham's defeat at Goodison Park on Sunday made it seven defeats in their last nine Premier League games. So what is going wrong for Spurs and will Ange Postecoglou be given enough time to turn things around? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Jon Mackenzie and Jack Pitt-Brooke, who was at Goodison Park covering the game, to analyse Spurs' run of form, the depth of their injury crisis and whether they can improve things with any additions in the January transfer market. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Jack Pitt-Brooke and Jon Mackenzie Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For an exclusive interview, David Ornstein sits down with former Arsenal striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang on a career marked with chaos, mistakes and glory. So coming up you’ll hear about; why Aubameyang wanted to leave Arsenal but stayed, how his relationship with Mikel Arteta broke down, The ‘chaos’ of his time at Chelsea and his harrowing account of the break in that took place at his home. Host: Ayo Akinwolere Guests: David Ornstein & Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

David Ornstein and Manchester City writer Sam Lee join Adam Leventhal to discuss Erling Haaland's new 9 and a half year contract, a story David broke exclusively on The Athletic.   The panel reflect on what the deal means for Manchester City's rebuild and whether the contract contains a release clause.  In the second half Adam is joined by Jacob Whitehead and Tottenham writer Jack Pitt-Brooke to preview Everton vs Spurs, two sides in desperate need of a win.  Ange Postecoglou's side have gone five Premier League games without victory, while Everton have scored just one goal in their last six matches.  Plus - a huge weekend in the title race, Alexander Isak's importance at Newcastle and what's caused Chelsea's slump in form? Host: Adam Leventhal With: David Ornstein, Sam Lee, Jack Pitt-Brooke, Jacob Whitehead Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After a damaging week with defeat in both Carabao Cup and FA Cup to Newcastle United and Manchester United, Arsenal bounced back on Wednesday night with a 2-1 win in north London derby over Tottenham Hotspur. So, how will the victory over Spurs influence Arsenal’s title challenge and do they need strengthening this month if they are to catch Liverpool? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's football correspondent David Ornstein and Arsenal writer Jordan Campbell to assess the impact of the win, what could be to come in the transfer market before looking ahead to what it could mean for any possible title challenge. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: David Ornstein and Jordan Campbell Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Barcelona president Joan Laporta has taken aim at the club's critics in the wake of the Dani Olmo registration saga. So why is he so angry, and is the situation even over? Host: Ayo Akinwolere  With: Laia Cervelló Herrero, Pol Ballus, Dermot Corrigan Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Napoli boss Antonio Conte has confirmed superstar winger Khvicha Kvaratskhelia wants to leave Naples. So why does he want to depart?  And where is his most likely destination?  We also talk the future of Manchester City's Kyle Walker, plus Arsenal pursuing a deal to sign midfielder Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad next summer. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: David Ornstein, James Horncastle and Phil Hay Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After sacking manager Sean Dyche on Thursday, by Saturday Everton have confirmed their decision to bring back David Moyes to replace him. So is Moyes the right choice to rebuild Everton and keep them in the Premier League?  Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Everton correspondent Patrick Boyland and The Athletic FC newsletter lead writer Phil Hay to discuss and analyse the decision to remove Dyche and bring back Moyes. The Athletic's Greg O'Keeffe, having seen Moyes' first reign firsthand, also drops in to give his views on the return of the Scot as well as Italian Football correspondent James Horncastle looking at the role of new owners The Friedkin Group. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Patrick Boyland, Phil Hay, Greg O'Keeffe and James Horncastle Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With the FA Cup is upon us again, we're asking which Premier League side needs the competition most this season? Tottenham and Newcastle lead the way on the The Athletic's Import-o-meter, with both sides currently on course to meet in the Carabao Cup final. FA Cup holders Manchester United head to the Emirates to face record 14-time winners Arsenal, who since winning the competition in 2020 have not progressed past the fourth round. Does Mikel Arteta need a trophy this season? And how will Ruben Amorim's progress be measured?  Plus - outside shouts for Bournemouth and Brentford, and has the FA Cup lost its magic? Host: Adam Leventhal With: Tim Spiers, Mark Citchley Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On Wednesday, after weeks of speculation West Ham finally sacked Julen Lopetegui. The Spaniard lasted just eight months - and 22 games in charge of the Hammers, the shortest reign of a permanent manager or head coach in the club's 124-year history Joining Ian Irving to analyse the decision to sack Lopetegui and replace him with Graham Potter are The Athletic's football correspondent David Ornstein and West Ham United writer Roshane Thomas. Plus, Football Tactics writer Liam Tharme also drops-by to discuss Potter's fit at the London Stadium and look back on his previously successful spell in the Premier League with Brighton & Hove Albion. Host: Ian Irving With: David Ornstein, Roshane Thomas and Liam Tharme Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Another week, another beaten opponent and another milestone notched for Nottingham Forest. They made history with six wins on the bounce with their 3-0 victory away at Wolves. So how have Nuno Espirito Santo’s side gone from fighting relegation & PSR last campaign to being one of the very best sides in the Premier League this season? Host: Ian Irving Guests:  Paul Taylor, Tim Spiers, Matt Slater, Mark Carey Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Video Producer: Liam Warburton Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The January transfer window is officially open! We take you inside the market to explain the deals being worked on,  We have David Ornstein’s One To Watch, Kolo Muani, plus, ongoing interest from Arsenal and Chelsea in Nico Williams. And fresh news today from David of a possible loan move for out of favour Manchester United striker Marcus Rashford. Plus, we hear all about David’s excellent exclusive interview with former Arsenal and Chelsea striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, which is available to read on The Athletic right now.  https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6036322/2025/01/07/aubameyang-arsenal-arteta-chelsea-saudi/ Host: Ian Irving Guests: David Ornstein and Phil Hay Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Despite a 23-point gap between Liverpool and Manchester United, on Sunday there was nothing to separate them. So, how did Man United unsettle Liverpool?  And with Trent Alexander-Arnold’s poor performance under the microscope, amid transfer interest from Real Madrid, is his contract uncertainty causing a distraction? Host: Ian Irving With: Adam Crafton and Simon Hughes Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tifo's Jon Mackenzie and The Athletic's Nick Miller are alongside Michael Bailey ahead of Sunday's meeting between Liverpool and Manchester United at Anfield. Fresh from Real Madrid outlining their interest in Trent Alexander-Arnold we also hear the thoughts of both Simon Hughes and James Pearce on the future of the England international. Plus, Carl Anka drops in with his take on a disappointing December for Ruben Amorim at Old Trafford having suffered four successive defeats in charge of Man United. As well as focusing on the meeting at Anfield, there's also a look at some of the Premier League's other standout games of the weekend including Arsenal's visit to Brighton, Newcastle United heading to Tottenham and Nuno Espirito Santo returning to Molineux with his in-form Nottingham Forest. Host: Michael Bailey With: Jon Mackenzie and Nick Miller Executive Producer: Abi Paterson Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tim Spiers and Duncan Alexander join Michael Bailey for a Christmas special — reviewing the biggest moments from Boxing Day, as well as looking ahead to the next round of Premier League fixtures. Fulham stunned Chelsea winning at Stamford Bridge for the first time in 45 years, was this a reminder that Enzo Maresca'a side are not yet the finished product? Marco Silva's Fulham face Andoni Iraola's Bournemouth next, are these two sides optimising the fun and unpredictability of the Premier League this season? Liverpool capitalised on Chelsea's slip up, extending their lead at the top of the table — are we witnessing another 2019/20 season? Everything continues to go wrong for Manchester United — suffering their fourth defeat in five Premier League games as captain Bruno Fernandes was sent off — how does Ruben Amorim turn things around with in-form Newcastle United up next? Plus, back to back wins for Wolves and new boss Vitor Pereira, Nottingham Forest's Champions League chase, and how do Arsenal replace the injured Bukayo Saka? Host: Michael Bailey With: Tim Spiers, Duncan Alexander Executive Producer: Abi Paterson Producer: Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's been a year filled with news, moves and eyebrow raising events in the world of football and we're here to look back at them with our own Christmas countdown. What happened this year, and how have those decisions played out? Here to reminisce and recoil at the year it's editor-in-chief Laura Williamson and senior writer Adam Crafton. Host: Ayo Akinwolere Guests: Laura Williamson and Adam Crafton Executive Producer: Abi Paterson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After beating Manchester United midweek in classically chaotic fashion, Tottenham host league leaders Liverpool.  With just one clean sheet in their last 23 Premier League home games, the panel analyse why Spurs are making things so difficult for themselves.  Meanwhile Liverpool have shown a more adaptable side to their game this week, could Ange Postecoglou take a leaf out of Arne Slot’s book?  Plus, we look at the fixtures elsewhere and talk sacking season after Gary O’Neil and Russell Martin were relieved of their duties this week.  Host: Michael Bailey With: Tim Spiers, Mark Carey Executive Producer: Abi Paterson Producer: Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chelsea winger Mykhailo Mudryk has tested positive for a banned substance.  He has been provisionally suspended.  Both club and player have issued statements to make categorically clear that Mudryk has never “knowingly used” any banned substances. So where does this leave Chelsea and the £62m man? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Chelsea correspondent Simon Johnson and senior writer Adam Crafton to discuss the scenario facing the Ukrainian winger. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Simon Johnson and Adam Crafton Executive Producer: Abi Paterson Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s now one win and eight losses in 11 games for Man City after the weekend’s derby defeat to Manchester United. So… what will it take to fix their current situation? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Sam Lee and Rory Smith Executive Producer: Abi Paterson Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On Sunday, Atletico Madrid made it 11 wins on the bounce with Alexander Sorloth scoring the only goal in a 1-0 win over Getafe. Having drawn level at the top of La Liga - next up they head to table-toppers Barcelona. So can Diego Simeone’s new-look Atleti sustain their challenge? Ayo Akinwolere is joined from Madrid by The Athletic's La Liga correspondent Dermot Corrigan as well as Colin Millar to analyse Atleti's red-hot form, their summer investment in the transfer market and whether their title challenge is sustainable ahead of the trip to face Barca. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Dermot Corrigan and Colin Millar Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sacking season is in full flow. Russell Martin departed Southampton, hours after Gary O’Neil was shown the door at Wolves. Three wins between these teams, 76 goals conceded. It has been coming.  Today, we focus on Wolves, who look set to appoint Vitor Pereira. So… just how much relegation danger are they in? Host: Michael Bailey With: Tim Spiers, Phil Hay and David Novo Executive Producer: Abi Paterson Producer: Mike Stavrou and Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On December 1, one of the world’s worst stadium disasters unfolded. At the Stade du 3 Avril in Nzerekore, Guinea, a devastating crush led to chaos and, according to officials, the deaths of 56 people. But domestic human rights organisations believe they have verified that at least 135 people lost their lives that day. The Athletic travelled to Nzerekore to visit the stadium, analyse what happened and speak to eyewitnesses and relatives of those involved. They are grieving and searching for the truth. Content Warning: This show contains reporting that some listeners may find upsetting Host: Adam Leventhal Producer: Abi Paterson News reporting: Channel 4, France News, Sky News Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Manchester City writer Sam Lee, Manchester writer Mark Citchley and tactics writer Thom Harris join Michael Bailey for a Manchester derby roundtable. With Pep Guardiola's side picking up just one win in their last 10 games, the panel dissect why it's still going wrong and look at whether Sunday's game presents an opportunity to bounce back. Manchester United have lost their last two Premier League games - but after coming from behind to win in Plzeň - are Ruben Amorim's side showing signs of moving in the right direction? Plus, we look at the fixtures elsewhere with drop ins from the club podcasts across The Athletic FC. Host: Michael Bailey With: Sam Lee, Mark Citchley, Thom Harris Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Saudi Arabia will host the 2034 Men’s World Cup after running unopposed. So why has FIFA allowed this to happen? What are the wider controversies surrounding their bid? And could Saudi Arabia actually be a good choice for a World Cup? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Matt Slater, Jacob Whitehead Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Spurs have lost 19 of their last 43 matches in the Premier League, and their most recent defeat against Chelsea was particularly damaging. So have Spurs evolved under Ange Postecoglou? And will he be given the time to turn their season around?  Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Jack Pitt-Brooke and Charlie Eccleshare Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

At the weekend, Chelsea overcame their biggest test yet under Enzo Maresca. The 4-3 win away at their bitter rivals Tottenham has seen them go up to second place in the table.  So, are Chelsea “back” - and are they real title contenders? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Phil Hay and Liam Twomey  Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After just five months, Dan Ashworth has left his role as sporting director at Manchester United So why has he gone, and what does it say about the new leadership at the club? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: David Ornstein, Adam Crafton, Laurie Whitwell Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After defeat on the South Coast, Ange Postecoglou’s Tottenham host in form Chelsea.  In a fixture that saw five goals scored, five goals disallowed, eight yellow cards, two reds and nine VAR checks in the first half alone last season, are we set up for similar chaos this year?  Enzo Maresca’s Chelsea are firing on all cylinders, having scored 57 goals in 22 matches in all competitions this campaign. While Spurs are as unpredictable as ever, following up their 4-0 victory at The Etihad by dropping points against Fulham and Bournemouth. After losing support from the fans midweek, how significant is Sunday’s game for Ange Postecoglou? Can Chelsea make a statement in their push for top four, or perhaps more?  Host: Matt Davies-Adams With: Tim Spiers, Jon Mackenzie Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

So far just two Premier League managers have been shown the door this season, with Erik Ten Hag and Steve Cooper having been sacked. But as we head toward the January transfer market, who else could follow Manchester United and Leicester City’s lead? And just when is the right time to sack a manager? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Stu James and lead writer of The Athletic FC newsletter Phil Hay to discuss the situations around both Julen Lopetegui and Gary O'Neil at West Ham United and Wolves, while Leicester City correspondent Rob Tanner explains Leicester's decision to swap Cooper for Ruud van Nistelrooy. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Stu James, Phil Hay and Rob Tanner Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We’re taking you inside the 2025 transfer market to explain the deals that are being worked on across both the winter and summer windows. This includes the players who could arrive and the ones who could be on their way out, across the Premier League and beyond. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: David Ornstein Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

So Ruben Amorim’s Manchester United have got off to a decent start, with two wins and one draw so far. But how are they going to handle a visit to Arsenal this week?  Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Carl Anka, Art de Roché, Phil Hay Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As Liverpool moved 9 points clear at the top of the Premier League after a comfortable victory over Manchester City Anfield serenaded Pep Guardiola with "you're getting sacked in the morning". So after four league titles on the bounce is City’s title race over already? Having been at Anfield for The Athletic both Man City writer Sam Lee and Liverpool writer James Pearce join Ayo Akinwolere as well as The Athletic FC's newsletter lead writer Phil Hay. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: James Pearce, Sam Lee and Phil Hay Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A major weekend of action kicks off on Friday evening, culminating in a massive game in the title race, as Liverpool welcome Manchester City. Arne Slot's Reds have 17 wins from 19 games in all competitions, while Pep Guardiola's side are coming off the back of 3 Premier League defeats in a row - as many as they’d lost in their previous 47. Can Pep turn things around? Or will Liverpool go 11 points clear? Elsewhere, big battles at the bottom for Palace, Southampton and Ipswich and what on earth will we get from Spurs? Host: Adam Leventhal With: Tim Spiers, Oli Kay Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ahead of this weekend’s games the top five teams in Italy are separated by just one point. Added to that, the last five seasons have seen four different clubs end as champions. So, why is Serie A so competitive and it is Europe’s most entertaining league? The Athletic's James Horncastle joins Ayo Akinwolere to discuss the start to the Italian season with Jordan Campbell also dropping by having recently written for The Athletic about The Scots thriving in Italy. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: James Horncastle and Jordan Campbell Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aston Villa are exceeding expectations in the Champions League, but it’s seems to have come at a cost. Their form has dipped in the Premier League, leaving them eighth in the table. So, can sides like Villa stop themselves becoming victims of their own success? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Jacob Tanswell and Thom Harris Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Last week, Premier League clubs voted in favour of amendments to the associated party transaction rules. After labelling the rules ‘discriminatory and distortive’ back in June, Manchester City were one of four clubs to vote against the adjustments.  So what exactly has changed, and which clubs will benefit?  Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Matt Slater, Jacob Whitehead Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"I'm probably more out than in," Mohamed Salah said on his future, after another match-winning performance against Southampton. His goals mean Liverpool are now eight points clear at the top of the Premier League So will Salah be offered a contract that will keep him at Anfield?  Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: James Pearce, Simon Hughes and Mark Carey  Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In April 2023, civil war broke out in Sudan. It continues to this day leaving in its wake the worst humanitarian crisis in the world, according to the United Nations. Despite this, Sudan’s national football team has qualified for the Africa Cup of Nations in 2025 and tops its World Cup qualification group. They are a source of hope to a nation left in ruins. In this special episode of The Athletic FC Documentary we’ll take you into the war torn country where amateur matches continue amid the shelling, and football grounds have become burial grounds. At a refugee camp in neighbouring Chad, we’ll hear of the horrors of war and how football is helping children there. And hear how geo political influence, immigration and perilous journeys over land and sea are part of this journey with Sudan, football and a war struggling to be seen and heard. Credits Written and presented by Adam Leventhal Produced by Abi Paterson Additional reporting in collaboration with Tom Rhodes and Zemenfes Goudos GebreMikael Featuring footage from beIN Sport, Al Jazeera, British Pathé, Sky News, Fairshot, SuperSport, Sudan FA  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Manchester City host Tottenham at the Etihad, the first game since Pep Guardiola announced he’ll be staying in Manchester a little longer.  Tottenham were beaten at home to Ipswich last time out, while Manchester City are four games without a win in all competitions — the panel assess which side look better placed to bounce back.  All that plus a look at the fixtures elsewhere with drop ins from the club podcasts across our network. Host: Adam Leventhal With: Tim Spiers, Nick Miller Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producers: Mike Stavrou & Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we’re talking; captains, differentials, and when to wildcard. You know it. We’re talking Fantasy Premier League aka FPL. So, how has a fantasy game changed the way we watch football? Host Ayo Akinwolere Guest, Sam Bonfield. Mark Critchley Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pep Guardiola has agreed to extend his contract as Manchester City manager  So why has he decided to stay and will he be able to build another team to dominate the Premier League?  Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Sam Lee and Pol Ballus  Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s focus is on Kylian Mbappe’s stuttering start to life at Real Madrid  Has the big-money move made Madrid worse?  Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Dermot Corrigan and Tomas Hill Lopez-Menchero Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week across The Athletic we’re focusing on the people that own the 20 clubs that make up the Premier League. So who are they? How much does it cost? and what do they get in return? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by Matt Slater and Adam Crafton is assess and debate how the nature of Premier League ownership has changed since the league's inception. Phil Buckingham also drops in to discuss his article on how much each ownership group has invested since taking control of their respective clubs as well as the impact the likes of Abu Dhabi's wealth has had at Manchester City. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Matt Slater, Adam Crafton and Phil Buckingham Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We’re eleven games into the season, today we’ll be assessing the table – and asking the question – is the quality of the Premier League the best it’s ever been?  Host: Adam Leventhal With: Tim Spiers, Nick Miller Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

England have had nine players drop out of their squad ahead of their matches against Greece and the Republic of Ireland. Captain Harry Kane is not impressed speaking out about the importance of playing for the national team. So is Kane right? Outside of major tournaments is international football respected? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Phil Hay, Jack Pitt-Brooke, Chris Waugh and Nick Miller Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Roma have sacked a second manager in less than two months and are now in talks to bring former coach Claudio Ranieri out of retirement. So… can Ranieri stabilise the turbulent Italian club? And what is the latest on Roma’s owners, The Friedkin Group, and their proposed takeover of Everton? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: James Horncastle and Paddy Boyland  Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami crashed out of the MLS Cup in the first round of the playoffs. So what now for Messi and Miami after being granted a place in the Club World Cup? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Felipe Cardenas and Phil Hay Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After another defeat Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou was quick to accept responsibility following their 2-1 home loss to Ipswich Town. So why are the Spurs so inconsistent and what can they do to fix it?  Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Charlie Eccleshare and Phil Hay to analyse Spurs' start to the season with Jon Mackenzie also dropping in to analyse their underlying numbers in comparison to last season's lightning-fast start. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Phil Hay, Charlie Eccleshare and Jon Mackenzie Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As demonstrated in the Champions League this week Viktor Gyokeres is European football's in-form striker. The Sporting striker's hat-trick against Man City puts him on 23 goals in all competitions already this season. So, after failing to break through at Brighton, could Gyokeres finally be ready for the Premier League? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Liam Tharme and Mark Carey to look at the numbers behind Gyokeres incredible season while David Novo, from Portuguese publication Record, gives the perspective from Portugal. Plus, former Coventry City assistant manager Adi Viveash also shares his account of working with the Swedish striker closely and helping to develop his game prior to his move to Sporting. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Liam Tharme, Mark Carey, David Novo and Adi Viveash Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Edu has resigned as Arsenal’s Sporting Director and is expected to join Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis’ portfolio of clubs. So why has Edu left the Gunners at a critical point of their project under Mikel Arteta? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: David Ornstein and Art de Roché Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

While their rivals faltered around them on the weekend, Arne Slot’s machine increased their lead at the top of the Premier League. As Xabi Alonso, who was the early favourite to replace Jurgen Klopp, arrives at Anfield in the Champions League… how different might life have looked for both Liverpool and Bayer Leverkusen? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: James Pearce and Seb Stafford-Bloor Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

So Man City suffered defeat in the Premier League for the first time this season away at Bournemouth on Saturday. Added to that, ahead of the game manager Pep Guardiola outlined their mounting injury list, so how much trouble are City in - and could the demands of the season lead to a more open title race? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by Oli Kay and The Athletic FC newsletter’s lead writer Phil Hay to analyse the champions start to the season. Man City writer Sam Lee explains the context of their injury list.  As well as that senior data analyst Mark Carey drops in to provide context to the state of the table after 10 games and NBA Daily host Dave DuFour has his say on Guardiola drawing comparisons to NBA over fixture congestion. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Oli Kay, Phil Hay and Mark Carey Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to The Preview on The Athletic FC, where each week we go deep on the biggest game of the weekend. This week — we’re focusing on Manchester United against Chelsea. In the first Premier League game since Erik ten Hag's sacking, interim boss Ruud van Nistelrooy will be looking to get his side back on track. But with the chance to go nine points clear of United, can Enzo Maresca make a statement in Chelsea's bid for Champions League football? Plus, we look at the fixtures elsewhere with drop ins from the club podcasts across our network. Host: Adam Leventhal With: Tim Spiers, Jon Mackenzie Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Manchester United have reached an agreement to make Ruben Amorim their head coach. So how did the deal come about and is Amorim more suited to succeed at Man United than Erik ten Hag?  Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Laurie Whitwell, David Novo, Mark Critchley, Andy Mitten  Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Nick Thomson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Real Madrid were expecting Vinicius Junior to win the Ballon d’Or on Monday night, but it didn’t go their way. The decision prompted Madrid to cancel their trip to Paris and effectively boycott the event. So.. have Real overreacted? And are they facing bigger problems on the pitch? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Dermot Corrigan and Phil Hay Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Things are looking good for Chelsea in the Premier League.  Despite this, their manager Enzo Maresca has urged captain Reece James to show more leadership. So is a “proper leader” what Chelsea are missing? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Liam Twomey and Phil Hay Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Erik ten Hag has been sacked as Manchester United manager having won just four games from 14 in all competitions at the start of this season. So, why now and what next for Man United? The Athletic's David Ornstein, who broke the story along with Adam Crafton, drops in to reveal the detail within United's decision while Ayo Akinwolere is joined by Laurie Whitwell and Mark Critchley to analyse the decision to let Ten Hag go. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Laurie Whitwell and Mark Critchley Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to The Preview on The Athletic FC, where each week we go deep on the biggest game of the weekend. This week — we’re focusing on Arsenal vs Liverpool. Plus, we look at the fixtures elsewhere with drop ins from the club podcasts across our network. Host: Adam Leventhal With: Tim Spiers, Nick Miller, Michael Cox, James Pearce Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With Tottenham on the lookout for potential new investors this week has seen speculation intensify around the possibility of Amanda Staveley, who brokered the Saudi Public Investment fund takeover of Newcastle United, setting her sights on Spurs. But would Spurs be able to spend enough to make a difference on the pitch? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic Matt Slater and Jack Pitt-Brooke to discuss Tottenham’s need for external funding, the role of Daniel Levy and how any investor would fit into the current power dynamic at Spurs as well as assessing the type of profile that would suit them. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Matt Slater and Jack Pitt-Brooke Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jurgen Klopp has a new job, but it’s not in management. The former Liverpool manager begins work as Red Bull’s head of global soccer from January 1, 2025. So how has a football ‘romantic’ ended up working for one of the world’s biggest corporations? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Seb Stafford-Bloor and Simon Hughes Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

10 games into the La Liga season it’s Barcelona who sit top, after a convincing 5-1 demolition of Sevilla on Sunday. With Bayern Munich and Real Madrid to come, this week looks set to test Barca’s newfound resolve under Hansi Flick So, are Barcelona back? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's La Liga writer Dermot Corrigan to discuss Flick's start to life in Barcelona as well as their financial position before Barcelona writer Pol Ballus drops in having been at the manager's media conference ahead of Wednesday night's Champions League clash with Bayern Munich. Reading Barcelona’s accounts – and why a ‘€12m profit’ is actually a €91m loss Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Dermot Corrigan and Pol Ballus Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As Declan Rice said after Arsenal’s 2-0 defeat to Bournemouth at the weekend, the team are making "silly mistakes”. So, can Arsenal still be title contenders if they keep making these mistakes? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Phil Hay and James McNicholas Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to The Preview on The Athletic FC, where each week we go deep on the biggest game of the weekend. This week — we’re focusing on Liverpool vs Chelsea. This should be an intriguing tactical battle - Arne Slot's reds boast the best defensive record so far, while Enzo Maresca's blues top the charts for xG from open play. Plus, we look at the fixtures elsewhere with drop ins from the club podcasts across our network. Host: Adam Leventhal With: Jon Mackenzie, Luke Bosher Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jhon Duran just can't stop scoring! Another goal off the bench for Colombia during the international break makes adds to the six goals he already has for Aston Villa this season, with six of those coming off the bench. So how does he go from supersub to starter? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Aston Villa writer Jacob Tanswell and senior data analyst Mark Carey to delve into Duran's role, character and potential with the 20-year-old Colombian quickly emerging as one of the Premier League's most talked about players. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Jacob Tanswell and Mark Carey Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

England have chosen a permanent successor to Gareth Southgate. So why has Thomas Tuchel been chosen and does he offer the best chance of winning the World Cup? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: David Ornstein, Jack Pitt-Brooke, Liam Twomey and Phil Hay Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou, Jay Beale and Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Adam Crafton exclusively revealed that Sir Alex Ferguson’s Manchester United ambassadorial contract has been ended by the club. So why have INEOS taken this decision? And with Erik ten Hag back at work after the international break - does this mean the owners have also taken a decision on the manager? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Adam Crafton, Laurie Whitwell and Phil Hay Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As things stand, Pep Guardiola’s contract expires at Manchester City at the end of the season..   Meanwhile, the English Football Association are still to announce a permanent replacement for Gareth Southgate. So, is there any chance Guardiola would manage England? The Athletic's senior football writer Oli Kay and Man City writer Sam Lee join Ayo Akinwolere to discuss Guardiola's future as well as England's search for a permanent successor. England writer Jack Pitt-Brooke also drops by following the 3-1 win over Finland to assess Lee Carsley's position as interim head coach. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Oli Kay and Sam Lee Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Adam Leventhal is joined by Tim Spiers and Jon Mackenzie to assess the opening seven gameweeks of the 24/25 Premier League season. The panel discuss all 20 teams; reflecting on Arne Slot's impressive start, the contrasting playing styles of Mikel Arteta and Pep Guardiola, the race for Europe led by Chelsea and Villa, and the four sides still yet to win a game. Plus - Brentford's fast starts, Spurs' collapse at Brighton, Forest exceeding expectations and much more. Host: Adam Leventhal With: Tim Spiers, Jon Mackenzie Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

He was once the most expensive player in world football but last year Paul Pogba saw his career in tatters after being handed a four-year suspension for a doping violation. Now having seen that ban reduced to 18-months he could be in line for a return to action in March. So what is next for Pogba?  James Horncastle and Oli Kay are alongside Ayo Akinwolere to talk about Pogba’s ban being reduced, Juventus’ response and what could unfold between now and the Frenchman being able to return to competitive action. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: James Horncastle and Oli Kay Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

So the verdict has been announced in Manchester City's legal case against the Premier League over the rules on commercial deals involving clubs' owners. So can either side claim to be winners or losers from the case?  And what ramifications could it all have for the 115 charges hanging over City? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Matt Slater and Jacob Whitehead Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we’re focusing on the four winless clubs in the Premier League; Southampton, Wolves, Ipswich Town and Crystal Palace. What can these clubs do to avoid being cut adrift and their managers getting sacked? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Tim Spiers and Phil Hay Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Arne Slot has settled in nicely at Anfield with his side are top of the Premier League heading into the October international break following their 1-0 win over Crystal Palace on Saturday. Despite winning nine of their 10 games under the Dutchman in all competitions, Liverpool are yet to beat anyone in the top half of the Premier League table. So how serious is Liverpool’s challenge for the title?  Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Oli Kay and James Pearce to analyse Liverpool's start to the Slot era with La Liga writer Dermot Corrigan also dropping by to discuss Trent Alexander-Arnold's contract uncertainty amid possible interest from Real Madrid. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Oli Kay, James Pearce and Dermot Corrigan Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to The Preview on The Athletic FC, where each week we’ll be going deep on the biggest game of the weekend. This week — we’re focusing on Aston Villa vs Manchester United. After contrasting weeks in Europe, will Sunday's game decide Erik ten Hag's future? Plus, we look at the fixtures elsewhere with drop ins from the club podcasts across our network. Host: Adam Leventhal With: Tim Spiers, Nick Miller, Jacob Tanswell, Liam Tharme, Ahmed Walid Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Why is it that everytime Arsenal get a set-piece it feels like they’ll score? Since the start of the 2021/22 season Mikel Arteta's have scored 44 goals from set-pieces with Gabriel responsible for 12 of those. So, how have set-pieces become so important? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic FC newsletter lead writer Phil Hay, Tactics writer Liam Tharme and former Premier League defender Nedum Onuoha to debate the rising importance and focus on set-pieces including the influences of coaches such as Nicolas Jover. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Phil Hay, Liam Tharme and Nedum Onuoha Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On Tuesday night PSG lost for first time since Kylian Mbappe left for Real Madrid having started the season seven games unbeaten prior to their visit to London. They were also without Ousmane Dembele against Arsenal, the player was dropped for disciplinary reasons. So can PSG succeed without superstars? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by Tom Williams, author of Va Va Voom, the modern history of French Football and Pierre-Etienne Minonzio from L'Equipe to discuss PSG's start to the new season, the role of Luis Enrique in their re-styling as well as which young players amongst their ranks could blossom into being their next talisman. The Athletic's Peter Rutzler also drops in with his view having been at the Emirates while Mike Stavrou also catches up with the travelling PSG supporters. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Tom Williams and Pierre-Etienne Minonzio Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Since the start of 2023-24, Cole Palmer has been directly involved in 43 PL goals (28 goals, 15 assists), more than any other player. So, is Palmer the best player in the Premier League? And why is he thriving at Chelsea? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Liam Twomey and Phil Hay Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we’re focusing on Manchester United after another damaging defeat, this time to Tottenham. So… what can Erik ten Hag do to turn things around?  Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Laurie Whitwell, Jay Harris and Phil Hay Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to The Preview on The Athletic FC, where each week we’ll be going deep on the biggest game of the weekend. This week — we’re focusing on Manchester United vs Spurs at Old Trafford. With Ange Postecoglou & Erik ten Hag's sides 10th & 11th respectively, Sunday presents a huge opportunity for one to kick start their season. Plus, we look at the fixtures elsewhere with drop ins from the club podcasts across our network. Host: Adam Leventhal With: Tim Spiers, Jon Mackenzie Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In June FIFA’s new Club World Cup launches but do you know where it’s being held, who’s playing in it or what the format actually is? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Matt Slater and Adam Crafton to discuss the tournament ahead of it's relaunch in the USA next summer with Felipe Cardenas also popping by to explain what it means for the US to host the competition. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Matt Slater & Adam Crafton Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

An agreement has been reached for The Friedkin Group to complete a takeover of Everton. But when will it actually be completed?  And how is it being paid for?  Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Matt Slater, Paddy Boyland and James Horncastle  Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we’re focusing on West Ham. There was so much excitement over their summer transfer business, but Julen Lopetegui has won just one of his first five league games in charge. So… have the Hammers got worse under their new manager or is the job just impossible? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Benji Lanyado, Jon Mackenzie Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On Sunday, champions Manchester City and challengers Arsenal played out a thrilling 2-2 draw at the Etihad in which both sides had to come from behind. Despite trailing to Erling Haaland's early goal, Mikel Arteta's side were only denied a win in the depths of added time with John Stones equalising for Pep Guardiola's side. So have Arsenal moved closer to dethroning Man City, despite not beating them? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Man City writer Sam Lee and Arsenal writer James McNicholas, who were both watching on to discuss the fallout from a game which involved plenty of drama both on-and-off the pitch. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Sam Lee and James McNicholas Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to The Preview on The Athletic FC, where each week we’ll be going deep on the biggest game of the weekend. This week — we’re focusing on 1st vs 2nd as Manchester City host Arsenal at the Etihad Stadium. Plus, we look at the fixtures elsewhere with drop ins from the club podcasts across our network. Host: Adam Leventhal With: Tim Spiers, Jon Mackenzie Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we’re focusing on Aston Villa - looking at their season so far and what was a hectic summer transfer window.. So how is Unai Emery’s side managing the demands of both Champions League and Premier League football?  Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Thom Harris who was there to witness Villa’s return to action in the Champions League this week & also broadcaster Dan Bardell who is very much a Villa fan too. Producer: Nick Thomson Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we’re focusing on Real Madrid and their super star players - The Galacticos. So how does Carlo Ancelotti manage the talent and the egos to deliver on the pitch? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Dermot Corrigan, Tomas Hill Lopez-Menchero and Ramón Calderón Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we’re focusing on Manchester City’s 115 charges for alleged breaches of financial rules after the long-awaited hearing started earlier this week. So how might all this play out for City? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Phil Hay and Matt Slater Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After victory in the North London derby, is Arsenal's leaner squad capable of keeping pace with Manchester City across both the Premier League and the Champions League? Also, David Ornstein will bring us all the details of manager Mikel Arteta’s new contract  And what does defeat to Arsenal say about how far Ange Postecoglou are behind their local rivals. Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic’s football correspondent David Ornstein and newsletter lead writer, Phil Hay Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: David Ornstein & Phil Hay Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Nick Thomson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to The Preview on The Athletic FC, where each week we’ll be going deep on the biggest game of the weekend. This week — we’re focusing on the North London derby as Spurs host Arsenal at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. Plus, we look at the fixtures elsewhere with drop ins from the club podcasts across our network. Host: Adam Leventhal With: Jon Mackenzie, Nick Miller Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

These days, most Premier League clubs have an executive to deal with transfers. From Richard Hughes swapping Bournemouth for Liverpool this summer to Manchester United’s pursuit of Dan Ashworth and Newcastle replacing him with Paul Mitchell who has got off to a tricky start. So, when a transfer window doesn’t go to plan, is the sporting director to blame? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Newcastle United writer Chris Waugh, lead writer for The Athletic FC's newsletter Phil Hay and senior football writer Simon Hughes. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Phil Hay, Chris Waugh and Simon Hughes Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Football is at breaking point. That's the message of yet another stark warning from FIFPro who recently suggested that this season will be the "worst ever" for player workload. We have PFA Chief Exec Maheta Molango on to explain what he's hearing from players, the impact this could have on its youngest stars, and whether we're heading towards a strike. Host: Ayo Akinwolere Guests: Maheta Molango and Stuart James Exec Prod: Adey Moorhead Prod: Abi Paterson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Since Roman Abramovich put Chelsea up for sale over two years ago, the club has been plagued with instability on and off the pitch. This week - things have got worse - Clearlake and Todd Boehly’s relationship is at breaking point and the ownership is in crisis. So why has this partnership fractured, and what does it mean for Chelsea’s future?  Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Adam Crafton, Liam Twomey, Simon Johnson Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mauricio Pochettino is set to be confirmed as the new head coach of the US Men’s National Team The Argentine takes charge less than two years out from co-hosting the World Cup So, is Pochettino the right choice to turn US fortunes into an American dream? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Adam Crafton and Felipe Cardenas to analyse the potential appointment ahead of an official announcement with the countdown to the 2026 World Cup already underway! Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Adam Crafton and Felipe Cardenas Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Adam Leventhal is joined by Tim Spiers and Jon Mackenzie to assess the opening three weeks of the 24/25 Premier League season. The panel reflect on Liverpool's 3-0 victory at Old Trafford, Everton's collapse at home to Bournemouth, and back to back hat-tricks for Erling Haaland - helping Manchester City start the season as they ended last. We also hear from our Tottenham and Chelsea writers from the club podcasts across our network, and talk life after Toney at Brentford. Plus - will Russell Martin's style of play get Southampton relegated, and Mark Carey drops by to tell us at what point the Premier League table begins to reflect the final standings.  Host: Adam Leventhal With: Tim Spiers, Jon Mackenzie, Mark Carey Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, Leicester City won their appeal against a Premier League charge for PSR breaches. Everton & Nottingham Forest have already been punished for financial rule breaking and Manchester City face multiple charges of their own, so how did Leicester avoid a points deduction and what does it mean for PSR? Ian Irving is joined by The Athletic's senior football news reporter Matt Slater and lead writer of The Athletic FC newsletter Phil Hay to discuss the complexity of Leicester's appeal and what impact it could have for PSR and the rest of the Premier League. Related article: How Leicester City avoided a Premier League points deduction and what it means for PSR - The Athletic Host: Ian Irving With: Matt Slater and Phil Hay Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Victor Osimhen was once the hottest strikers in European football. But instead of a move to PSG or Chelsea, the 25-year-old is swapping Naples for Istanbul. So… how has Osimhen ended up at Galatasaray? Host: Ian Irving With: James Horncastle and Carl Anka Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we’re focusing on the Premier League club that is rock bottom of the table after three straight losses. Meanwhile, off the pitch, their future is still up in the air. So… what now for Everton? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Paddy Boyland, Phil Hay and Matt Slater Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we’re picking the bones out of Liverpool’s 3-0 rout of Manchester United. Arne Slot has begun life at Anfield with three wins from three, as for Erik ten Hag’s side they’ve already lost twice this season. So have Liverpool improved or are Manchester United just not the test they once were? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Manchester United writer Carl Anka and Liverpool writer James Pearce, who were at Old Trafford, to analyse the difference between the two sides and examine the start to life under Slot for Liverpool. Plus David Ornstein drops by to discuss the latest around Mohamed Salah's contract situation following his comments after the game, as well as reviewing Liverpool's transfer dealings this summer under new sporting director Richard Hughes Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: James Pearce, Carl Anka and David Ornstein Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to The Preview on The Athletic FC, where each week we’ll be going deep on the biggest game of the weekend. This week — we’re focusing on Arne Slot's first serious test as Erik ten Hag's Manchester United host Liverpool at Old Trafford. Plus, we look at the fixtures elsewhere with drop ins from the club podcasts across our network. Host: Adam Leventhal With: Tim Spiers, Jon Mackenzie, Carl Anka, James Pearce, Neil Mellor Executive Producer: Ben Green Producer: Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ahead of the Champions League returning it’s goodbye to the group stage and that’s not the only change - you’ll probably notice they’ve dabbled with the music as well!  To delve into the changes to the format Ayo Akinwolere is joined by football news reporter Matt Slater and lead writer for The Athletic FC newsletter Phil Hay. The panel get into the the new league structure, explain why it gets called "The Swiss Model" and how it will work in practice. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Matt Slater and Phil Hay Executive Producer: Abi Paterson Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brighton have had an impressive start under their 31-year old-manager Fabian Hurzeler and an even more impressive transfer window - with £200million spent.  On the show it’s tactics writer Liam Tharme and German football writer Seb Stafford-Bloor. And we’re asking… is there something exciting happening with the Seagulls this season? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Liam Tharme and Seb Stafford-Bloor Executive Producer: Abi Paterson Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With just days left until the transfer window closes - what big moves should we look out for? So what is going to happen with Raheem Sterling and Jadon Sancho?  Are Liverpool getting Federico Chiesa?  And is Manuel Ugarte finally on his way to Manchester United? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: David Ornstein and Carl Anka Executive Producer: Abi Paterson Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

One game, one win but Vincent Kompany’s Bayern Munich had to leave it late to get the job done! Serge Gnabry with a late winner as they came from behind to beat Wolfsburg 3-2. So after Bayer Leverkusen ended Bayern’s run of 11 straight titles last season, can Kompany lead them back to the top? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's German football writer Seb Stafford-Bloor and Andy Jones, who watched Kompany's Burnley during his two-year stay at Turf Moor to analyse the Belgian's start to life with Bayern. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Seb Stafford-Bloor and Andy Jones Executive Producer: Abi Paterson Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to The Preview on The Athletic FC, where each week we’ll be going deep on the biggest game of the weekend. This week — we’re focusing on Unai Emery's Aston Villa, who host title chasing Arsenal on Saturday. Plus, we look at the fixtures elsewhere with drop ins from the club podcasts across our network. Host: Adam Leventhal With: Tim Spiers, Jon Mackenzie, Jacob Tanswell, Liam Tharme, James McNicholas Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Only a week into the season but it appears Napoli boss Antonio Conte has already gone full Conte. After an opening day defeat he said his side "melted like snow in the sunshine”. So how can Napoli avoid another disappointing season after their title triumph in 2023? Is moving on Victor Osimhen and reuniting Conte with Romelu Lukaku the answer? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: James Horncastle and Jack Pitt-Brooke Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

So Manchester City have now reached agreement with Ilkay Gundogan over a free transfer from Barcelona. So is it a no-brainer for City to bring back a player they let go just 12 months ago? And why are Barca willing to allow one of their best players to leave so soon?  Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Sam Lee and Pol Ballús Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It felt like a host of top clubs would be queuing up to sign Brentford striker Ivan Toney this summer. He’s been linked with a lucrative move to the Saudi Pro League But where is the interest from Premier League clubs for the England international? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Jay Harris and Liam Tharme Additional reporting: Laurie Whitwell, James McNicholas, Sam Lee Producers: Abi Paterson & Guy Clarke Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Once again we’re asking what is going on at Stamford Bridge. So after being unhappy at being left out for the season opener. What now for Raheem Sterling at Chelsea?  Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Oli Kay and Liam Twomey Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to The Preview on The Athletic FC, where each week we’ll be going deep on the biggest game of the weekend. This week — Opening week! — we’re focusing on the ever-changing Chelsea, who host Premier League champions Manchester City on Sunday. Plus, which Chelsea player would start for City, and a look at the fixtures elsewhere with drop ins from the club podcasts across our network. Host: Michael Bailey With: Tim Spiers, Jon Mackenzie, Liam Twomey, Sam Lee Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After missing out on European football last season, it’s been a summer of uncertainty at Newcastle United. Changes in the boardroom have seen Eddie Howe lose a key ally in Amanda Staveley and with a new Sporting Director Newcastle are yet to truly flex their strength in the transfer market. So will Newcastle do the business they need and is the manager’s position vulnerable? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Newcastle United writer Chris Waugh and The Athletic FC's lead newsletter writer Phil Hay to analyse the changes at St James' Park with football correspondent David Ornstein sharing the latest on their pursuit of Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Chris Waugh, Phil Hay and David Ornstein Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Liverpool have been rejected. So why has Martín Zubimendi turned down a move to Anfield under new manager Arne Slot? And are they at risk of being left behind by their busy rivals in the transfer market?  Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Phil Hay and Simon Hughes Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s been a year since the departure of Harry Kane from Tottenham. But with record signing Dominic Solanke are Tottenham finally replacing their all-time record goalscorer? And what can we expect from Ange Postecoglou’s second season in charge at Spurs? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Jack Pitt-Brooke and Seb Stafford-Bloor  Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

New coaches, new CEO, new Sporting Director - you name it - it’s been a summer, of upheaval at Manchester United. That's before you even look at the transfer market! But will the changes be enough for the drastic, improvement needed after finishing 8th in the Premier League last season? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Manchester United writers, and Talk of the Devils regulars Laurie Whitwell and Carl Anka to assess how Erik Ten Hag's men are preparing for the new season, while David Ornstein drops in with his take on the club's dealings in the transfer window. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/talk-of-the-devils-the-athletic-fcs-manchester-united-show/id1495072403?uo=4 Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Laurie Whitwell and Carl Anka Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pep Guardiola has entered the final year of his Manchester City contract. With the uncertainty around many players futures, and the 115 charges still looming, could this be the end of an era at Manchester City?  Adam Levethal is joined by Phil Hay, lead writer for The Athletic FC newsletter as well as our Manchester City writer Sam Lee to reflect on their eventful U.S tour, Julian Alvarez's potential €95m move to Atletico Madrid, and discuss whether this could be Pep Guardiola's last season in Manchester. Host: Adam Leventhal With: Phil Hay and Sam Lee Executive Producer: Abi Paterson Producer: Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With just one win in five games, Chelsea’s US Tour hasn’t quite gone to plan, conceding four goals apiece to both Celtic and Manchester City along the way. New boss Enzo Maresca blamed ‘old habits’ for their defensive misgivings after his side’s latest defeat to Real Madrid. So, with the Premier League season just over a week away what should we expect from Chelsea?  Ayo Akinwolere is joined by Phil Hay, lead writer for The Athletic FC newsletter as well as our Chelsea writer Liam Twomey to analyse their pre-season preparations, discuss how Maresca has settled as well as touching on the ever-chaotic transfer business heading in and out of Stamford Bridge. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Phil Hay and Liam Twomey Executive Producer: Abi Paterson Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Fresh off an outstanding Euro 2024 campaign with Spain, Dani Olmo is close to a 60 million euro move to Barcelona. But given their ongoing financial issues, how are Barca affording this? And with plenty of stars already established in midfield, do they even need Olmo? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Pol Ballús and Tomás Hill López-Menchero Executive Producer: Abi Paterson Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On today’s podcast we bring you our reporter Adam Crafton’s exclusive interview with Zlatan Ibrahimovic. With 561 goals for club and country and 12 league titles across four countries - he is truly one of football’s greats. You’ll hear the former Manchester United, PSG, Milan and Sweden striker open up on his childhood, his tattoos, how Jose Mourinho got the best out of him, and… viewing himself as ‘God’. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Adam Crafton Executive Producer: Abi Paterson Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Despite going close in each of the past two seasons, Arsenal have ultimately finished both empty-handed. So is this the season Mikel Arteta finally delivers the Premier League title? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Art De Roche as well as Handbrake Off regular and former Arsenal winger Adrian Clarke to assess Arsenal's title chances ahead of the new season. Italian football correspondent James Horncastle also shares his thoughts on the Gunners move for Riccardo Calafiori following his move to North London from Bologna. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Art De Roche and Adrian Clarke Executive Producer: Abi Paterson Producer: Guy Clarke Related articles: Riccardo Calafiori, Arsenal’s new defender who got lifts from De Rossi and models his game on Stones - The Athletic The five games Arsenal failed to score in last season: What lessons can be learned - The Athletic Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Arsenal, Manchester United and Liverpool are just some of the teams in America during pre-season supposedly giving back to their fans abroad. But is it enough? Do Premier League teams need to play competitive matches away from England to truly make this a global game? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by Adam Crafton to discuss the importance of pre-season tours in the US for Premier League clubs with the likes of James McNicholas, Laurie Whitwell, Sam Lee and James Pearce also sharing their views while on tour. Iain Macintosh also catches up with supporters in LA to ask how willing supporters in the USA are to see the teams they support play overseas. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Adam Crafton Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Spain are deservedly champions of Europe. So why are England once again unable to take the final step? And will it be Gareth Southgate’s final game as manager?  Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Oli Kay, David Ornstein, Pol Ballus Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producers: Guy Clarke & Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lamine Yamal turns 17 the day before Spain’s Euro 2024 final against England and he’s already produced the moment of the tournament with his wonder goal in the semi-final win over France. So how did he get so good so young?  And will his club side Barcelona be able to keep hold of him in the long term? Adam Leventhal is joined by The Athletic's Pol Ballus, who is out in Germany covering Spain at Euro 2024 as well as La Liga writer Dermot Corrigan is analyse the rise of Lamine Yamal and look ahead to what could await him on his return to Barcelona. Host: Adam Leventhal With: Pol Ballus and Dermot Corrigan Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Related articles: Perfection, by Lamine Yamal - The Athletic The story behind the viral photos of Lionel Messi and a baby Lamine Yamal - The Athletic Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

England left it late, but thanks for Ollie Watkins' last minute winner are through to the final at Euro 2024. So are they now good, or just really lucky having relied on a number of big moments throughout the tournament? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Oli Kay who was in Dortmund for the 2-1 win over the Netherlands as well as Jack Pitt-Brooke and Tim Spiers to analyse England's route to the final and the role of manager Gareth Southgate.  Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Oli Kay, Jack Pitt-Brooke and Tim Spiers Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Related articles: England, a team of comebacks, late winners and finals. These are extraordinary times - The Athletic Ollie Watkins, Cole Palmer and an England goal that was worth the wait - The Athletic Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On Friday, Arne Slot was officially unveiled as head coach in a new era at Liverpool. Yesterday, The Athletic reported that the club’s owners FSG are interested in purchasing French club Bordeaux. So what is the plan, and how would it benefit Liverpool? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: James Pearce, Matt Slater Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Manchester United are working to finalise a deal for Bologna forward Joshua Zirkzee. His performances in Italy have earned him a spot in the Dutch squad for the Euros.  So is Zirkzee an upgrade on United’s existing forward options?  Or could they be about to make a move for a more experienced Premier League striker?  Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: David Ornstein and Carl Anka Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

England are through to the semi-final at Euro 2024 after seeing off Switzerland on penalties. Yet for Gareth Southgate’s side there were familiar problems in Dusseldorf with Harry Kane again struggling to make an impact. No doubt he’ll start Wednesday’s semi-final against the Netherlands but should he?  Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's senior football writer Oli Kay as well as Jacob Whitehead to discuss Kane's role ahead of Wednesday's meeting in Dortmund. Football tactics writer Ahmed Walid also drops in to join in the conversation around the rest of the semi-finalists leading forwards while Pol Ballus explains the importance of Alvaro Morata to Spain both on and off the pitch. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Oli Kay, Jacob Whitehead and Ahmed Walid Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Related articles Is Harry Kane in danger of becoming England’s Cristiano Ronaldo? - The Athletic Memphis Depay vs Wout Weghorst: The striker debate which cuts to the heart of Dutch football - The Athletic Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Just weeks after considering managerial replacements, Manchester United have extended Erik ten Hag’s contract until 2026. With so much structural change at the club, is this a genuine show of faith in the manager? And with preseason starting Monday, what are the problems that still need to be fixed before the Premier League returns? Host: Adam Leventhal With: Mark Critchley, Dan Sheldon Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Try as he might, Cristiano Ronaldo is still waiting for his first goal at Euro 2024, despite having 20 shots at goal during the tournament so far. Maybe, time is finally catching up with the 39 year old. If that’s the case - is the power and influence Ronaldo has on this Portugal side still worth it? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by Oli Kay, who was in the Frankfurt Arena for Portugal's last 16 tie with Slovenia on Monday night, as well as Tim Spiers to analyse what Ronaldo brings both on and off the pitch ahead of Friday's quarter-final against France. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Oli Kay and Tim Spiers Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Related articles: Cristiano Ronaldo cannot rage against the dying of the light forever - The Athletic The cult of Cristiano Ronaldo - The Athletic Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tottenham have won the race for teenage sensation Archie Gray, seeing off competition from the likes of Brentford and Borussia Dortmund. Leeds United said they were heartbroken after seeing him go - so why did they let their academy star leave? And what does the signing of Gray tell us about Spurs’ summer transfer policy?  Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Nancy Froston and Jay Harris Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Less than a month into this summer’s transfer window, one crucial deadline has already passed as club’s scrambled to comply with PSR. Amongst those were Newcastle United, so how did they find a way to balance the books? And what is the situation at St James’ Park for the rest of the summer transfer window? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's football correspondent David Ornstein and Newcastle United writer Chris Waugh to analyse a frantic weekend of dealing. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: David Ornstein and Chris Waugh Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Inside Newcastle’s frantic attempts to sell players and comply with PSR - The Athletic Manchester United agree deal with Newcastle to appoint Dan Ashworth as new sporting director - The Athletic Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

England have squeezed through to the quarter-finals of Euro 2024 thanks in part to a moment of genius from who else but Jude Bellingham. It was an underwhelming performance, but post match the England midfielder silenced critics. So, does it matter how England play as long as they win? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Jack Pitt-Brooke, Jacob Whitehead Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After three lacklustre displays - France failed to top their group at a major tournament for the first time in 12 years. Their two goals so far at Euro 2024 have consisted of an own goal and a penalty, so what is going wrong for Didier Deschamps’ side?  And how much good will is left in the bank from their 2018 World Cup triumph? Host: Adam Leventhal With: Tom Williams, Pierre-Etienne Minonzio Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

At Euro 2024, there is one team everyone seems to have a soft spot for, and they have probably been the most impressive. Ralf Rangnick's Austria finished top of their group and are into the knock out stages. The German manager seems to have put his difficult spell at Manchester United behind him, so how has he transformed this Austrian team and how far can they go? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Seb Stafford-Bloor, Mark Carey, Mark Critchley Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

So, England are through to the last 16 of Euro 2024 as group winners but once again were underwhelming in their 0-0 draw with Slovenia. Could turning to Cole Palmer and Kobbie Mainoo be the solutions to the puzzle Gareth Southgate needs to solve if England are to progress much further? And what did Southgate's comments post-match reveal about how he's handling the challenge of managing at this tournament? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Oli Kay and Matt Slater, who were both in Cologne as well as football tactics writer Liam Tharme to analyse whether or not England can still succeed with Southgate. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Oli Kay, Matt Slater and Liam Tharme Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Related articles: Gareth Southgate understands England fan reaction after objects thrown at him following Slovenia draw - The Athletic Euro 2024 and the lopsided draw affecting which teams are considered likely finalists - The Athletic Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to the latest edition of The Transfer DealSheet, our guide to the summer transfer window. David Ornstein brings us the latest developments across the Premier League and beyond. And after a flurry of homegrown transfer deals emerged over the weekend ahead of that June 30th financial deadline. Have Premier League clubs found a PSR loophole? Host: Adam Leventhal  With: David Ornstein, Liam Twomey & Peter Rutzler Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Having grown synonymous with their tiki-taka style of play, Spain have so far shown another side at Euro 2024, in beating both Croatia and Italy. So why have Spain moved away from their patient, possession-based approach and will this summer's transfer window see clubs take advantage of the release clause in the contract of one of their most promising stars Nico Williams? Michael Bailey is joined by The Athletic's Pol Ballus, who's in Germany covering Spain during the Euros as well as our La Liga writer Dermot Corrigan. Host: Michael Bailey With: Pol Ballus and Dermot Corrigan Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Related articles: Spain’s tiki-taka era might be over – but its legacy continues to divide - The Athletic Spain’s Nico Williams serves notice – his €55m release clause looks a transfer bargain - The Athletic Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Germany have been one of the most dominant sides so far at this summer’s Euros. They’ve already qualified for the knockout stages after impressive wins over Hungary and Scotland. So how has Julian Nagelsmann put his Bayern Munich disappointment behind him and reinvented this Germany team so quickly? And what could the future hold for him beyond his time with the national team? Host: Michael Bailey With: Seb Stafford-Bloor and Liam Tharme Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Euros may have already exploded into action - but tonight comes Copa America! As ever Brazil are amongst the tournament favourites - but will they deliver and what impact has the cloud hanging over Lucas Paqueta had on their preparations? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by Brazilian football journalists Renato Senise and The Athletic's Thom Harris who is out in Miami ahead of the start of the tournament. Football news reporter Tom Burrows also drops in to explain the latest around Paqueta following the FA charges he is facing. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Thom Harris, Renato Senise and Tom Burrows Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Copa America 2024 preview: The Athletic’s complete guide to the tournament - The Athletic ‘Paqueta should be banned for life if he’s guilty. Do I see it happening? Probably not’ - The Athletic Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Portugal’s Euro 2024 campaign got off to a winning start last night, with a late show from their substitutes. But it was far from a convincing performance by Roberto Martinez’s unbalanced and chaotic side. So, does the Spaniard know how to get the best out of this talented Portugal squad led by Cristiano Ronaldo? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Tim Spiers and David Novo Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With the transfer window now officially open, Manchester United have wasted no time in making their intentions clear, submitting a bid for Everton's Jarrad Branthwaite. Despite the deal being rejected, Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's David Ornstein brings us the latest developments alongside Everton writer Paddy Boyland. Plus Liverpool also have their eye on a central defender who is also a target for United & Real Madrid. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: David Ornstein and Paddy Boyland Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Related articles: Manchester United make opening £35m offer for Jarrad Branthwaite - The Athletic Why Jarrad Branthwaite makes sense for Man Utd – a two-footed duel winner - The Athletic Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

England’s Euro 2024 is up and running with a win over Serbia.  With their superstar talents, is there perhaps a whiff of arrogance by those who follow Gareth Soutgate’s team? And what is the view across Europe where Kane & Bellingham have starred for Spain & Germany’s biggest clubs. Are they drawn to the allure of the box-office stars, or is it the possibility of watching England fall short again? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Oli Kay, Jack Pitt-Brooke, James Horncastle, Dermot Corrigan, Seb Stafford-Bloor Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After weeks of uncertainty, news broke on Tuesday that Erik Ten Hag is to remain as manager of Manchester United. So why have Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS come to this decision and what will Ten Hag’s relationship with his squad and the owners look like moving forward? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by David Ornstein, Adam Crafton and Mark Critchley to analyse Man United’s decision and assess who else was considered for the Old Trafford hotseat ahead of looking ahead to what challenges lay ahead. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: David Ornstein, Adam Crafton and Mark Critchley Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Related articles Inside Erik ten Hag’s Manchester United reprieve: Tuchel, De Zerbi and the key meetings - The Athletic Erik ten Hag to stay as Manchester United manager - The Athletic Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to another edition of The Transfer DealSheet, our guide to the summer transfer market where David Ornstein will bring us latest developments across the Premier League and beyond. We take a deep dive on the market in Spain, including Barcelona's admiration for Liverpool's Luis Diaz. Plus, after securing Kylian Mbappe, what’s holding up Real Madrid’s pursuit of Alphonso Davies Host: Adam Leventhal With: David Ornstein, Dermot Corrigan, Pol Ballus Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to episode 12 of The Radar, where The Athletic's unrivalled range of global football experts will profile some of the game's most exciting up and coming talents who look set to star at this summer’s European Championships and Copa América. 21-year-old Florian Wirtz has taken German football by storm since his emergence at Bayer Leverkusen back in 2020. A superstar in their extraordinary unbeaten run to Bundesliga glory - will he also help inspire the hosts to European success in his own backyard? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to episode 11 of The Radar, where The Athletic's unrivalled range of global football experts will profile some of the game's most exciting up and coming talents who look set to star at this summer’s European Championships and Copa América. 21-year-old forward Johan Bakayoko has made a name for himself in a bold, attacking PSV Eindhoven team which fits his skill set perfectly.  One of the most watchable young players in Europe at the moment - will the Belgian light up this tournament and put him in the shop window for a lucrative transfer to the Premier League or beyond? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to episode 10 of The Radar, where The Athletic's unrivalled range of global football experts will profile some of the game's most exciting up and coming talents who look set to star at this summer’s European Championships and Copa América. Kendry Páez has been making quite the mark for club and country since he burst onto the youth football scene in 2022. He became the youngest player ever to represent Ecuador - and the second youngest South American to ever play international football behind a certain Diego Maradona. With a highly-anticipated move to Chelsea on the horizon - could he be the player that sets this summer’s Copa América alight? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to episode 9 of The Radar, where The Athletic's unrivalled range of global football experts will profile some of the game's most exciting up and coming talents who look set to star at this summer’s European Championships and Copa América. 21-year-old child prodigy Xavi Simons is at a crossroads in his career after making the high profile switch from Barcelona to PSG.  Standout loan spells at PSV and RB Leipzig over the last two seasons have got everyone asking what Xavi’s next move will be - but first, will he showcase his star quality out in Germany? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to episode 8 of The Radar, where The Athletic's unrivalled range of global football experts will profile some of the game's most exciting up and coming talents who look set to star at this summer’s European Championships and Copa América. 20-year-old all-action Watford midfielder Yáser Asprilla has made it his business to score absolute screamers for the Hornets since arriving at Vicarage Road in 2022. Following in the footsteps of the Colombian great James Rodríguez isn’t going to be easy - but could he be about to explode onto the international stage? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to episode 7 of The Radar, where The Athletic's unrivalled range of global football experts will profile some of the game's most exciting up and coming talents who look set to star at this summer’s European Championships and Copa América. RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Šeško has long been touted as one of the next great strikers - linked with some of the world’s biggest clubs and hype around him reaching fever pitch ahead of a potential move this summer… Slovenia may not be anyone’s favourites to cause a shock at Euro 2024 - but could their centre forward make his mark and show why he’s considered one of the purest number 9’s in the world? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to episode 6 of The Radar, where The Athletic's unrivalled range of global football experts will profile some of the game's most exciting up and coming talents who look set to star at this summer’s European Championships and Copa América. 20-year-old midfielder Marcelo Flores began his footballing education at Ipswich Town and Arsenal - but has a point to prove after failing to make a real breakthrough in his time at The Emirates.  Now back in Mexico and coming off the back of a successful domestic campaign with Tigres - can his youthful exuberance see him live up to the billing as his country's most exciting prospect? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to episode 5 of The Radar, where The Athletic's unrivalled range of global football experts will profile some of the game's most exciting up and coming talents who look set to star at this summer’s European Championships and Copa América. 19-year-old Benfica midfielder João Neves has followed in the footsteps of Bernardo Silva, Darwin Núñez, João Félix and Rúben Dias to come through the Portuguese Champions’ academy.  Quick, agile and technically gifted with formidable tackling ability, stamina and composure - will this summer’s Euros be the stage upon which he really announces himself to the world? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to episode 4 of The Radar, where The Athletic's unrivalled range of global football experts will profile some of the game's most exciting up and coming talents who look set to star at this summer’s European Championships and Copa América.  22-year-old USA international Folarin Balogun’s every move has been watched with intrigue since his permanent move from Arsenal to Monaco.  After a somewhat difficult start to life on the Côte d'Azur - will he make the number 9 jersey his own this summer prove his worth to the US men’s national team on home soil? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to episode 3 of The Radar, where The Athletic's unrivalled range of global football experts will profile some of the game's most exciting up and coming talents who look set to star at this summer’s European Championships and Copa América. Paris Saint Germain’s Warren Zaïre-Emery has had a meteoric rise since rewriting the record books when he became the club’s youngest player and goalscorer when he was just 16 years old. Now 18 and already regarded as one of the most technically gifted midfielders in the world - could he be the next face of French football for years to come? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The summer transfer window officially opens on June 14 as clubs look to strengthen their squads ahead of the 2024/25 season. So what kind of business is your club likely to do this summer? Which big players could be on the move? How restricted will Premier League clubs be by PSR? And what impact could this - and the summer tournaments - have on the market? Host: Adam Leventhal With: David Ornstein Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to episode 2 of The Radar, where The Athletic's unrivalled range of global football experts will profile some of the game's most exciting up and coming talents who look set to star at this summer’s European Championships and Copa América. 17-year-old Endrick burst onto the international scene with goals against England and Spain and will join Real Madrid after playing a potentially pivotal role for Brazil out in the USA.  He’s already been compared to legendary strikers Ronaldo, Pelé and Romário - but does he really have what it takes to follow in their illustrious footsteps? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to episode 1 of The Radar, where The Athletic's unrivalled range of global football experts will profile some of the game's most exciting up and coming talents who look set to star at this summer’s European Championships and Copa América. Prodigal 16-year-old Lamine Yamal has already broken a number of records for Barcelona and Spain in his short career so far.  Will the precocious attacker cement his status as one of the most talented young footballers in the world out in Germany? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After a three month search, Bayern Munich have finally secured a new head coach having appointed former Burnley manager Vincent Kompany. So why have Bayern chosen Kompany? How influential were his links to Pep Guardiola in their decision and how will the Belgian adapt to life in Bavaria after Burnley? Adam Leventhal is joined by The Athletic's Seb Stafford-Bloor and Andy Jones to analyse how the move came about and whether the Belgian will be a success in Munich. Host: Adam Leventhal With: Seb Stafford-Bloor and Andy Jones Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Related articles: Bayern Munich, Vincent Kompany and the summer’s strangest managerial appointment - The Athletic Why do Bayern Munich want Vincent Kompany? - The Athletic Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On Tuesday, Mauricio Pochettino left his position as Chelsea head coach by mutual consent after less than 11 months in the job. After a poor start he led his side to a sixth place finish in the Premier League, but the upturn in form wasn’t enough. So, why did the Pochettino project fail, and who will Chelsea turn to next? Host: Adam Leventhal With: Simon Johnson, Jack Pitt-Brooke Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producers: Mike Stavrou & Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Manchester City have created English football history by winning a fourth consecutive top flight title. But do Pep Guardiola’s side get the recognition their achievements deserve? Does future dominance depend on how long the manager stays and is the whole debate overshadowed by the 115 charges they face for alleged breaches of Premier League financial regulations? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by Man City writer Sam Lee, senior football writer Oli Kay and Manchester football writer Mark Critchley to discuss. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Sam Lee, Oli Kay and Mark Critchley Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Related articles: Inside Manchester City’s history-making fourth Premier League title in a row - The Athletic Manchester City’s wonderful team and the 115 charges – can the two be separated? - The Athletic Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s matchday 38 in the Premier League and the title race is down to the final day with Man City taking on West Ham and Arsenal up against Everton. The race for Europe involves the following matches: Sheffield United vs Spurs, Chelsea vs Bournemouth, Brentford vs Newcastle and Brighton vs Manchester United. Host: Adam Leventhal With: Tim Spiers and Jon Mackenzie Producer: Mike Stavrou Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ange Postecoglou was clearly furious after Tottenham’s 2-0 defeat to Manchester City. But what made him so upset after what was one of Spurs’ better performances in recent months? And was he right to be so angry? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic’s Tottenham writers Charlie Eccleshare & Jack Pitt-Brooke who are also on our Spurs pod View From The Lane.. Producer Guy Clarke Executive Producer Adey Moorhead Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On Monday, The Athletic reported news of Bayern Munich’s attempt to prize Oliver Glasner from Crystal Palace for a hefty sum. That’s credit to the remarkable job Glasner has done since succeeding Roy Hodgson just three months ago. The Austrian coach has taken Palace to safety in style - but the big question is: can the club keep hold of their star players and their manager this summer? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Matt Woosnam and Dominic Fifield Producer: Mike Stavrou Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Newcastle United face Manchester United on Wednesday with both clubs competing for a place in Europe next season.  But is the increased strain on squads that comes with qualifying for UEFA’s lesser competitions actually worth it?  Or would a season out of Europe allow both sides to regroup and build again?  Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Carl Anka and George Caulkin Producer: Mike Stavrou Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After recording just a second win in 17 Premier League visits to Old Trafford Arsenal have taken the title race to the final day. So can Arsenal now complete the job and win the league for the first time in 20 years, despite Man City still having the title in their hands? If they fall short, does anything need to change next season and how long without delivering a league title can Arsenal trust the process? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's football correspondent David Ornstein and Arsenal writer Jordan Campbell to analyse how Mikel Arteta has managed to build his side to this point as well as look ahead to what their next steps could look like. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: David Ornstein and Jordan Campbell Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Related articles Arsenal marry progress and history with another 1-0 win at Old Trafford - The Athletic Mikel Arteta hails Arsenal for opening ‘box of dreams’ on possible Premier League title - The Athletic Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s matchday 37 in the Premier League and the main focus is on Manchester United vs Arsenal, another huge match in the title race. Elsewhere, Fulham host City and Nottingham Forest go up against Chelsea. Host: Adam Leventhal With: Tim Spiers and Jon Mackenzie Producer: Mike Stavrou Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Last night in L.A. Chelsea chairman Todd Boehly said he drew positives from his side’s recent form in the Premier League. So has the Chelsea project turned a corner under Mauricio Pochettino? And has he done enough to still be in charge next season? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Simon Johnson & Liam Twomey Producers: Guy Clarke & Jay Beale Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bayern Munich announced back in February that this season would be Thomas Tuchel’s last as their manager. Fast forward three months and Bayern are yet to find a replacement. Xabi Alonso, Julian Nagelsmann, Unai Emery and now Ralf Rangnick have opted to stay at their current jobs rather than join the German club. So why are Bayern struggling to fill their managerial vacancy? And who could they turn to next? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Jan Åge Fjørtoft and Seb Stafford-Bloor Producer: Mike Stavrou Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Last night, West Ham announced that David Moyes will leave the club when his contract expires in the summer. After a prolonged search for Moyes’ successor, it seems the Hammers have landed on Julen Lopetegui. So… why have West Ham chosen the former Spain, Real Madrid and Wolves manager over other candidates?  And for Lopetegui himself - what is it about the project that has made him turn down the allure of Bayern Munich? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: David Ornstein and Tim Spiers Producer: Mike Stavrou Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On Saturday Real Madrid were confirmed as La Liga champions for a record-extending 36th time, following Barcelona's 4-2 defeat at Girona. So how did they do it, why was this title not as easy as it looked and can anyone stop Real Madrid being European football’s dominant force?  Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Madrid-based writer Dermot Corrigan and Junior Spanish Editor Tomas Hill Lopez-Menchero to analyse how Carlo Ancelotti's side have managed to write their own page in Madrid's illustrious history. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Dermot Corrigan and Tomas Hill Lopez-Menchero Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Related articles: How Real Madrid won La Liga – artful Ancelotti, brilliant Bellingham and unlikely new heroes - The Athletic Real Madrid’s ‘dystopian’ dominance – Barcelona and La Liga rivals are way behind - The Athletic Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s matchday 36 in the Premier League and the title race is once again the main focus. Arsenal host Bournemouth while Man City go up against Wolves. Elsewhere, in the relegation battle, it’s Luton vs Everton, Burnley vs Newcastle and Sheffield United vs Nottingham Forest. Host: Adam Leventhal With: Tim Spiers, Andy Jones and Jordan Campbell Producer: Mike Stavrou Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

So on Monday Premier League clubs opted to push on with plans for a hard spending limit — a de facto salary cap tied to the income of the lowest earning side in the top flight. Why do some clubs want more financial regulation? Who is pushing back against it? And could this end up with legal action? The Athletic's senior football news reporter Matt Slater joins Ayo Akinwolere to explain the concept of 'anchoring' as well as answering questions submitted by subscribers to The Athletic over the Premier League's proposed new spending controls. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Matt Slater Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Back in January, Xavi announced he would be stepping down as Barcelona boss at the end of the season, citing the role as a “cruel job” that “wears you down”. But last week, he and Barca changed their minds - yet another twist in a rollercoaster season for the Catalans. So, why did Barca perform a dramatic U-turn on Xavi’s future?  How strong is his position now? And can Xavi be backed in this summer’s transfer market to the level he now expects?  Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Pol Ballús and Tomás Hill López-Menchero Producer: Mike Stavrou Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mohamed Salah’s heated exchange with Jurgen Klopp last weekend left many questioning whether the forward would join his manager in leaving Liverpool this summer. Then as The Athletic revealed on Monday, Liverpool expect Salah to stay this summer and are planning on him being part of their squad for next season. So, with his future back on the agenda, what are Liverpool’s options with or without their iconic forward? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: David Ornstein and James Pearce Producer: Mike Stavrou Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Arsenal were too much for Tottenham in yesterday’s North London derby, running out 3-2 winners at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. After the games, Spurs boss Ange Postecoglou said his team needs to deal with the “details” to be contenders. So what exactly are the fine margins they are missing?  And will it be enough to get to the next step and challenge next season? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Jack Pitt-Brooke and Seb Stafford-Bloor Producer: Guy Clarke Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s matchday 35 in the Premier League and it’s a huge north London derby as Arsenal go to Spurs hoping to stay in the title race. Elsewhere, Man City go to Nottingham Forest and West Ham host Liverpool. Host: Adam Leventhal With: Tim Spiers, Charlie Eccleshare and Jay Harris Producer: Mike Stavrou Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Almost three months on from Jurgen Klopp announcing his intention to stand down, Liverpool have earmarked the man they’d like to replace him. So why do Liverpool want Feyenoord’s Arne Slot? And is he the right personality to replace Klopp at Anfield?  Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: David Ornstein and Adam Crafton Producer: Guy Clarke Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Playing an exciting brand of attacking football it’s no wonder Simone Inzaghi is now being linked to high-profile managerial jobs in England and abroad. But is he better off staying in Italy and a resurgent Serie A?  Or does uncertainty around finance and the ownership at Inter mean now is the time for a new challenge? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: James Horncastle Producer: Mike Stavrou Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On Monday, The Athletic revealed that West Ham have held talks with Sporting Lisbon boss Ruben Amorim to be their next manager…  He is also being looked at to replace Jurgen Klopp at Liverpool So who is Ruben Amorim and why is he in such high demand?  Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: David Ornstein and Mark Carey Producer: Mike Stavrou Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Before taking his seat at Wembley, Sir Jim Ratcliffe completed the London Marathon and compared the race, to the job he has to do at Old Trafford. Seeing his boyhood side reach a second successive FA Cup Final was only have the story though as Erik Ten Hag's side almost squandered a 3-0 lead to be dumped out by Coventry City. So will success in the FA Cup show enough progress for Ten Hag to remain in position, or do United's problems run deeper than just their manager? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Carl Anka and Mark Critchley who were both at Wembley to discuss. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Carl Anka and Mark Critchley Producer: Guy Clarke Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Related articles Manchester United’s semi-final win was no turning point for Ten Hag – it was a tipping point - The Athletic If Manchester United move on from Ten Hag, who does the data say they should target? - The Athletic Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s matchday 34 in the Premier League as Arsenal go to Wolves in the big clash in the title race. Elsewhere, it’s the FA Cup semi-finals, as Chelsea face Man City and Manchester United go up against Coventry City. Host: Adam Leventhal With: Tim Spiers and Liam Twomey Producer: Mike Stavrou  Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On Wednesday night, Arsenal's Champions League hopes were ended in Munich, in their first quarter-final at that level in 14 years. Afterwards Mikel Arteta was left lost for words in how to console his side, while they also remain in the Premier League title race. So how can the Spaniard ensure the Gunners season doesn't peter out, how ruthless can they be in this summer's transfer window - or should Arteta be able to get more from the squad already at his disposal? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's David Ornstein and Art de Roche to discuss and analyse how different Arsenal could look the other side of the summer transfer window. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: David Ornstein and Art de Roche Producer: Guy Clarke Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Related articles: Arsenal’s progress this season will be undermined if their title challenge fizzles out - The Athletic Arsenal are evolving at a pace that could leave Zinchenko, Jesus and others behind - The Athletic Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Last night were were reminded why the Champions League is the biggest draw in world football. Meanwhile, FIFA seem to be stepping back in the battle to stop competitive games being taken abroad. So, could we one day see the Premier League or La Liga decided in the USA? Or the UEFA Champions League final in Saudi Arabia? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Matt Slater and Adam Crafton. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Matt Slater and Adam Crafton Producer: Mike Stavrou Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On Sunday, Bayer Leverkusen won the first league title in their 120-year history, and the celebrations were wild. Still to play for this season; a potential treble and the chance to go the entire season unbeaten. But is Xabi Alonso staying enough to keep his squad together next season?  Is it still even possible for this team to go to the next level and break into Europe's elite? Or, is this as good as it gets for Leverkusen?  Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Raphael Honigstein, Seb Stafford-Bloor Producer: Mike Stavrou Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

At Anfield on Sunday, Liverpool’s terrible week got a whole lot worse. A shock 1-0 defeat to Crystal Palace has dealt a blow to Jurgen Klopp’s hopes of a second Premier League title and they have a mountain to climb in the Europa League, trailing Atalanta 3-0. So why are Liverpool faltering at the business end of the season?  And can they still turn it round? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Oli Kay and James Pearce to assess and analyse where things have gone wrong for Jurgen Klopp's side having gone from potential quadruple winners to seeing his reign possibly end with a whimper. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: James Pearce and Oli Kay Producer: Guy Clarke Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Related articles: The 10 misses that might have ended Liverpool’s Premier League title bid - The Athletic Liverpool’s failure to keep clean sheets is proving deeply damaging - The Athletic Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s matchday 33 in the Premier League and Arsenal host Aston Villa as they look to hold on to top spot in the league table. Elsewhere, Spurs go to Newcastle and Chelsea play Everton. Host: Adam Leventhal With: Jon Mackenzie, Art de Roché & Tim Spiers Producer: Mike Stavrou and Jay Beale Executive Producer: Adam Jones Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After overseeing a 27-game unbeaten run, Luis Enrique’s PSG fell to defeat at home to Barcelona on Wednesday night, losing 3-2 in their Champions League quarter final first leg. So why did Kylian Mbappe struggle to impact the kind of game he’s been renowned for owning in previous years and is he at risk of seeing his PSG career end with a whimper? As for Enrique, is he the man to finally push the Parisians over the line to become a serious contender in years to come? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Peter Rutzler as well as Pierre-Etienne Minonzio of L'Equipe. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Peter Rutzler and Pierre-Etienne Minonzio Producer: Guy Clarke Executive Producer: Adam Jones Related articles: Mbappe surely cannot bow out so quietly in Barcelona - The Athletic How Paris Saint-Germain made Ousmane Dembele ‘extraordinary’ again - The Athletic Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Diego Simeone and Atletico Madrid have enjoyed and endured a 12-year love affair and it is hard to imagine one without the other. He has overseen both unbelievable highs and crushing lows. This season - Atletico are on course for their worst finish in La Liga since Simeone’s first year in charge, but could another Champions League run galvanize his team once again? And with plenty of big clubs looking for ,managers this summer, why isn’t his name mentioned in the conversations anymore? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Dermot Corrigan & Tomás Hill López-Menchero. HOST: Ayo Akinwolere WITH: Dermot Corrigan & Tomás Hill López-Menchero PRODUCER: Mike Stavrou EXECUTIVE PRODUCER: Adam Jones Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mikel Arteta takes charge of Arsenal’s first Champions League quarter final in 14 years on Tuesday night. Top of the Premier League and with the opportunity to make a serious statement in Europe, how has Arteta revived this Arsenal side? And with Jurgen Klopp leaving and Pep Guardiola’s long-term Manchester City future uncertain, is he ready to build a dynasty in north London? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Jordan Campbell, Art de Roché, Amy Lawrence Producer: Jay Beale Executive Producer: Adam Jones Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On Sunday Old Trafford witnessed more mayhem as Manchester United and Liverpool played out a 2-2 draw. Despite facing another 28 shots, Man United emerged with a point, but was that through luck or design? So has Erik Ten Hag done enough to convince INEOS he’s worth persisting with into next season? And with so much change coming behind the scenes over the summer…can Man United turn chaos into control? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Adam Crafton and Mark Critchley to discuss and debate the Dutchman's future. HOST: Ayo Akinwolere WITH: Adam Crafton and Mark Critchley PRODUCER: Guy Clarke EXECUTIVE PRODUCER: Adam Jones Related articles: Baffling, beguiling and bewildering: trying to explain this Manchester United - The Athletic Ten Hag’s Manchester United future: Open to operating as head coach, Murtough to leave - The Athletic Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s matchday 32 in the Premier League and Manchester United host Liverpool in a match that will have big implications on the title race. Elsewhere, Burnley go to Everton and Luton play Bournemouth. Host: Adam Leventhal With: Jon Mackenzie, Mark Critchley and Andy Jones Producer: Mike Stavrou and Jay Beale Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Last night, Aston Villa stumbled in pursuit of securing a top four place in the Premier League losing 4-1 away to Manchester City. But as Newcastle have shown this season, despite the money in brings in, qualifying for Europe puts a huge strain on smaller squads especially when financial rules make it harder to spend. And as Ange Postecoglou commented in the week, Champions League qualification doesn't necessarily provide what clubs are seeking, if they're unable to push on and compete. Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Tottenham writer Jack Pitt-Brooke, Aston Villa writer Jacob Tanswell and Newcastle United writer Chris Waugh to discuss how the Premier League's growing collection of upwardly ambitious clubs sustained continued Champions League qualification amid the backdrop of strict financial spending limits. HOST: Ayo Akinwolere WITH: Jack Pitt-Brooke, Jacob Tanswell and Chris Waugh PRODUCER: Guy Clarke EXECUTIVE PRODUCER: Adey Moorhead Related articles: Unai Emery is all about planning – there was a point to Villa’s ‘practice’ and chaos - The Athletic Beyonce, NFL and boxing help make Tottenham Hotspur Stadium a cash machine - The Athletic Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tonight, Thomas Frank and Roberto de Zerbi go head-to-head in what some might call the data derby…  Brentford and Brighton may adopt a similar approach behind the scenes, but how do their sought after coaches compare, and who is the most likely to fill a managerial vacancy elsewhere this summer?   And what are the reasons for the long running feud between the owners of the two clubs dating back to 2004?  Produced by Jay Beale Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chelsea’s difficult season continued as Mauricio Pochettino’s side were held to a 2-2 draw by 10-man Burnley at the weekend.. There’s division among the fans, a billion pound squad yet to gel, and growing pressure on the manager. So can Chelsea salvage something from their remaining games?  And after all the instability this season will there be another summer of sweeping change? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic’s Tim Spiers and our Chelsea writer Liam Twomey, who is also part of another podcast on this network: Straight Outta Cobham. Produced by Mike Stavrou Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the pitch Liverpool have seized the initiative in the Premier League title race following their 2-1 win over Brighton & Hove Albion on Sunday. Yet off the pitch, uncertainty lingers after Xabi Alonso confirmed last week he'll be staying with Bayer Leverkusen, ruling himself out of the running to replace Jurgen Klopp at Anfield. So where do Liverpool turn next and who will be on their managerial shortlist to replace Klopp? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's David Ornstein and Oli Kay to discuss Alonso's decision to stay at Leverkusen before debating the process the Reds will go through with their new sporting director Richard Hughes to find a successor for Klopp. Produced by Guy Clarke Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Related Articles: What happened with Liverpool and Xabi Alonso – and where does the club look now? - The Athletic Would Roberto De Zerbi be the right kind of manager for Liverpool? - The Athletic Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s matchday 30 in the Premier League and the huge meeting of the weekend sees Manchester City host top-of-the-table Arsenal. Title rivals Liverpool, meanwhile, play Brighton and Manchester United go to Brentford. Host: Michael Bailey Guests: Nnamdi Onyeagwara, Jay Harris, Jon Mackenzie Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Most of us can only dream of owning a football club . But for the very rich it’s an opportunity towards power, influence and… even more money So who are the people that try to buy football clubs?  And how do football’s authorities decide who gets the green light for a takeover?  Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Adam Crafton & Matt Slater Produced by Guy Clarke Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Related articles: The nobody who tried to buy Manchester United and Inter Milan by Adam Crafton ‘Under every rock, we found a lie’: How the bid to be English football’s first black owner unravelled by Matt Slater Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A few months ago Kobbie Mainoo had not played a minute for his club at senior level let alone his country. Now at just 18, he is one of Manchester United’s best players - and after a man of the match performance for England last night Gareth Soutgate was full of praise   So how has one so young been able to establish himself at the highest level so quickly?  And in terms of Euro 2024, has it gone beyond Mainoo just being in the squad for England - does he need to start? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic’s Manchester United writer Carl Anka, who is also on our Talk of the Devils podcast, data writer and part of The Athletic Football Tactics Podcast, Mark Carey, and Michael Bailey, who was at Wembley for us last night. Produced by Mike Stavrou Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Thiago Motta, the mastermind behind Bologna's unlikely push for a Champions League spot, is seen as one of the most impressive up-and-coming managers. With plenty of clubs looking for a new head coach this summer — could Motta be ready for a move to one of European football’s elite?  Also where might Roberto De Zerbi end up & how much will his style influence the roles he could be offered? Produced by Jay Beale. Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For anyone that didn’t know about him already, 17-year-old wonderkid Endrick introduced himself with a winner against England at Wembley on Saturday. So how good is Brazil's next big thing - and where will he fit in at Real Madrid when he completes his move to the Bernabeu this summer? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Brazilian football writer Jack Lang, Nick Miller, who conducted Endrick's first interview with a UK media outlet as well as Junior Spanish Football Editor Tomas Hill Lopez-Menchero to discuss. Produced by Guy Clarke Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Related articles: Endrick delivers a preview showing of history to leave Brazil salivating for more - The Athletic Meet 15-year-old Endrick: 5ft 6in tall, left-footed and the next big thing in Brazilian football - The Athletic Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s just 84 days until the European Championships begin in Germany - so we are looking ahead to Euro 2024, with a particular focus on two of the favourites; France & England. Host Michael Bailey is joined by England correspondent Jack Pitt-Brooke, PSG and Fulham writer Peter Rutzler, plus data writer Thom Harris. Produced by Mike Stavrou. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Following Nottingham Forest's four-point deduction for breaching the Premier League's Profitability and Sustainability Rules earlier this week, Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's senior football news reporter Matt Slater as well as Tim Spiers. The panel debate the sanction handed down to Forest, following on from Everton's own six-point deduction with the Goodison Park outfit set to receive a further punishment in due course. Plus, there's analysis of the impact of points deductions through the course of an ongoing season before assessing the impact the regulations could have on the summer's transfer window before getting to the role an independent regulator could have on the game. Produced by Guy Clarke Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Related articles: The season of asterisks – PSR rulings have created a Premier League campaign like no other - The Athletic What is the independent football regulator? Why has it been brought in? What powers does it have? - The Athletic Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Once again Newcastle United will finish the season trophyless, and currently sit 10th in the Premier League. There have been question marks over finances, transfers and team selection. But if the belief in manager Eddie Howe remains strong, how long will the faith remain? Producer: Jay Beale Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Last week England boss Gareth Soutgate announced that Arsenal’s Ben White does not want to play for England. So, why doesn’t one of the best players in Europe, in his position, not want to represent his country? And why do some followers of the England national team find it so difficult to understand? Produced by Jay Beale. Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Following Manchester United's dramatic FA Cup Sixth Round win over Liverpool at Old Trafford The Athletic's David Ornstein and Mark Critchley join Ayo Akinwolere to discuss the significance of the result for Erik ten Hag. The Manchester United manager has been under increased scrutiny since the minority investment from Sir Jim Ratcliffe, who has taken over sporting control at Old Trafford. So, would possible success in the FA Cup be enough to convince the hierarchy Ten Hag is worth persisting with come the summer, or could United be set to beginning their next managerial hunt for a worthy successor to Sir Alex Ferguson? Produced by Guy Clarke Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Related articles: Manchester United are chaotic but beat Liverpool at their own game - The Athletic The story of Amad Diallo – and the man accused of trafficking him to Europe - The Athletic Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s matchday 29 in the Premier League & the FA Cup quarter-finals this weekend.  The big meeting of the weekend sees Manchester United take on Liverpool at Old Trafford in the FA Cup, while Man City host Newcastle. There’s also Premier League action to discuss & reaction to the latest England squad announcement. Host: Adam Leventhal Guests: Tim Spiers, Jon Mackenzie, Jacob Whitehead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Manchester United face Liverpool on Sunday at their iconic home Old Trafford, but the ‘Theatre of Dreams’ isn’t what it once was. Last week the club announced plans for a “world-class” stadium, so why is it so important to have a state of the art arena and how will a shiny modern new stadium improve results on the pitch? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Matt Slater and Andy Mitten, part of The Athletic's dedicated Man United podcast Talk Of The Devils, to discuss what options are opened to Manchester United when it comes to a stadium renovation or even rebuild. Produced by Guy Clarke Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Related articles: Why Manchester United might need more debt to rebuild Old Trafford - The Athletic If Manchester United want an elite stadium, Old Trafford must be knocked down - The Athletic Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On Tuesday night, Barcelona made it through to the quarter-finals of the Champions League. There was a time when that would have been very much routine. But after all the off-pitch issues, could this actually be a turning point? Or is it just a false dawn for a club gripped by crippling financial losses?  The Athletic’s Adam Leventhal is joined by Tomas Hill Lopez-Menchero and Barcelona writer Pol Ballus. Produced by Mike Stavrou Executive producer: Adey Moorhead Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chelsea saw off Newcastle in the Premier League at Stamford Bridge, a win that eased pressure on Mauricio Pochettino… But the bigger picture is they remain 11th in the table which has led sections of the fanbase harking back to the days of Roman Abramovich. So what are the issues the owners need to address to turn things round?  And will strategies like Chelsea’s multi-club model ever convince a sceptical fanbase?  Producer: Jay Beale Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Only one point separates the top three in the Premier League following Liverpool and Man City drawing 1-1 at Anfield on Sunday, while Arsenal beat Brentford 2-1 on Saturday night to move to the top of the table. Meanwhile, off the pitch for Liverpool the Reds are moving closer to bringing back former sporting director Michael Edwards to work within owners Fenway Sports Group's ownership structure with Bournemouth's departing technical director Richard Hughes looking set to take the sporting director role at Anfield. Join Ayo Akinwolere as well as The Athletic's Oli Kay and Simon Hughes as they analyse the draw with Man City on Sunday as well as discuss the latest within Liverpool's off-pitch infrastructure ahead of what could be a crucial summer with manager Jurgen Klopp leaving at the end of the season. Produced by Guy Clarke Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Related articles: Liverpool vs Manchester City: This is what a Premier League classic looks like - The Athletic Michael Edwards close to FSG role with Richard Hughes as Liverpool sporting director - The Athletic Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s another huge weekend in the Premier League, with a pivotal matchup in the title race as Liverpool host Manchester City at Anfield. Elsewhere, Aston Villa welcome Tottenham to Villa Park as both sides chase Champions League football, and Everton go to Old Trafford to face Manchester United. Host: Adam Leventhal Guests: Tim Spiers, Jon Mackenzie, Nick Miller Producer: Mike Stavrou We’re asking you to fill out a quick survey about you and your podcast habits by going to theathletic.com/survey24. Three lucky entries will win £/$100 worth of Amazon vouchers too. So whether you're a long-time listener or a new one, we want your feedback. *** • With over 1,000 therapists in the UK already, BetterHelp can provide access to mental health professionals with a wide variety of expertise in mental health. Our listeners get 10% off their first month at BetterHelp.com/ATHLETICFOOTBALL Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This weekend sees Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool face Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City for the final time in the Premier League. Two hugely successful managers but would either have been quite so successful without the other? And with Klopp about to leave Anfield - and Guardiola's long-term future at the Etihad uncertain.. Which club - Liverpool or City - is better suited to life without its legendary leader? The Athletic’s Michael Bailey is joined by colleagues Oli Kay, Pol Ballus and our German football writer Raf Honigstein. Producer Jay Beale Executive Producer Adey Moorhead *** We’re asking you to fill out a quick survey about you and your podcast habits by going to theathletic.com/survey24. Three lucky entries will win £/$100 worth of Amazon vouchers too. So whether you're a long-time listener or a new one, we want your feedback. • With over 1,000 therapists in the UK already, BetterHelp can provide access to mental health professionals with a wide variety of expertise in mental health. Our listeners get 10% off their first month at BetterHelp.com/ATHLETICFOOTBALL Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With 12 games to go Spurs look like a good bet for Champions League football. So are Spurs punching above their weight or could they be even higher had their season not been hampered by injury?  And how does Ange Postecoglou’s start as a manager in the Premier League compare with the likes of Jurgen Klopp and Mikel Arteta? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic’s Tottenham correspondent Jack Pitt-Brooke and German football writer Seb Stafford-Bloor. Produced by Mike Stavrou Executive producer: Adey Moorhead *** We’re asking you to fill out a quick survey about you and your podcast habits by going to theathletic.com/survey24. Three lucky entries will win £/$100 worth of Amazon vouchers too. So whether you're a long-time listener or a new one, we want your feedback. • With over 1,000 therapists in the UK already, BetterHelp can provide access to mental health professionals with a wide variety of expertise in mental health. Our listeners get 10% off their first month at BetterHelp.com/ATHLETICFOOTBALL Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Last night, Arsenal swept the floor with another of the Premier League’s relegation candidates, Sheffield United. So do they need a new striker after all?! In their last seven league games they have scored 31 times. So, what has Mikel Arteta changed to open the floodgates? And will it be enough to challenge title rivals City and Liverpool all the way to the end? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic’s David Ornstein and former Gunners midfielder Adrian Clarke. Produced by Mike Stavrou Executive producer: Adey Moorhead *** We’re asking you to fill out a quick survey about you and your podcast habits by going to theathletic.com/survey24. Three lucky entries will win £/$100 worth of Amazon vouchers too. So whether you're a long-time listener or a new one, we want your feedback. ===== • With over 1,000 therapists in the UK already, BetterHelp can provide access to mental health professionals with a wide variety of expertise in mental health. Our listeners get 10% off their first month at BetterHelp.com/ATHLETICFOOTBALL Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Manchester City eventually ran out convincing winners over Manchester United in the derby at the weekend.  Yet, Erik ten Hag said afterwards that the gap in quality between the two sides wasn’t that big.. Is he right? And if there is a summer of sweeping changes at United, is this likely to also mean a change of manager at Old Trafford?  Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic’s David Ornstein & Manchester United writer Laurie Whitwell. We’re asking you to fill out a quick survey about you and your podcast habits by going to theathletic.com/survey24. Three lucky entries will win £/$100 worth of Amazon vouchers too. So whether you're a long-time listener or a new one, we want your feedback. *** • With over 1,000 therapists in the UK already, BetterHelp can provide access to mental health professionals with a wide variety of expertise in mental health. Our listeners get 10% off their first month at BetterHelp.com/ATHLETICFOOTBALL Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s the Manchester derby, with City hosting United at the Etihad Stadium. United will be hoping to better their 3-0 defeat in the reverse fixture. Elsewhere, Oliver Glasner’s Crystal Palace travel to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium to take on Spurs, Newcastle host in-form Wolves, while Everton welcome West Ham to Goodison Park. Host: Michael Bailey Guests: Tim Spiers, Jon Mackenzie, Joey D'Urso Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With 12 Premier League games to play, the top three are separated by just two points, with Liverpool, Manchester City and Arsenal all still firmly in contention to be crowned champions in May. So are we set for the most nail-biting climax in Premier League history, or will March's clashes at the top of the table prove decisive? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Arsenal writer James McNicholas as well as Merseyside football writer Simon Hughes and Manchester football writer Mark Critchley to assess and analyse each of the side in the race to win the title. Produced by Guy Clarke Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Related articles: Arsenal, Manchester City or Liverpool? The Premier League’s title race analysed - The Athletic Three-team Premier League title races are rare – enjoy this while you can - The Athletic Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Last night, Manchester City moved a step closer to another treble, thanks to the formidable Erling Haaland. If City do win the lot - again - could he start to think about a fresh challenge?  There’s always been a suspicion that Haaland will one day join Real Madrid. But is a move now less likely with the potential arrival of Kylian Mbappe? Or is Madrid the only realistic next destination for Haaland… if anywhere at all?  Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic’s Man City correspondent Sam Lee, data writer Thom Harris, plus La Liga correspondent Dermot Corrigan. Produced by Mike Stavrou Additional production: Jay Beale Executive producer: Adey Moorhead Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Why has Everton’s 10-point deduction for breaching profit and sustainability rules been reduced to six points?  How will the decision impact sides around them locked in a relegation battle?  What might it say about Everton's upcoming second case?  And what about outstanding charges for Nottingham Forest… and the 115 for Manchester City? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic’s David Ornstein, Matt Slater and Everton correspondent Patrick Boyland. Produced by Mike Stavrou Additional production: Jay Beale Executive producer: Adey Moorhead Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Following Liverpool's 10th League Cup success manager Jurgen Klopp described it as the most special achievement of his career, given the reliance he had to put in a number of academy graduates. Youngsters Bobby Clark, James McConnell, Jayden Danns and Jarrell Quansah were all used from the bench along with full-back Conor Bradley. Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's football correspondent David Ornstein and Liverpool reporter James Pearce to analyse the Reds' bold youth policy through academy coaching and recruitment before looking ahead to what could prove to be a decisive summer at Anfield. Produced by Guy Clarke Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Related articles: The Liverpool kids who won the cup – with some help from Virgil van Dijk - The Athletic Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool farewell tour skips, screams and grins on way to ‘most special trophy’ - The Athletic Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Adam Leventhal and co return to preview the weekend of top-flight football ahead, with not only Premier League points but also domestic silverware on the line.  Liverpool and Chelsea go head-to-head at Wembley Stadium on Sunday afternoon for the Carabao Cup, but who would the trophy be more important for, Mauricio Pochettino at the start of his Chelsea career, or Jurgen Klopp at the end of his time at Liverpool?  Meanwhile on Saturday, Arsenal host Newcastle and Man City travel to Bournemouth, both hoping to close the gap to Liverpool at the top of the table. And the weekend will also give us our first glimpse of Oliver Glasner, new in the dugout at Crystal Palace. We explore what fans can expect from the Austrian tactically.  Host: Adam Leventhal Guests: Tim Spiers, Jon Mackenzie, Luke Bosher Producer: John Rogers Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Oliver Glasner has been chosen as the man to re-energise Crystal Palace after a barren run of just two wins from 16 in all competitions. The Europa League-winning coach replaces Roy Hodgson, who stepped down as manager on Monday. So, who is Glasner… and why have Palace chosen him?  And just how big is the rebuilding job on his hands? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic’s German football writer Raphael Honigstein and Dom Fifield. Produced by Mike Stavrou Executive producer: Adey Moorhead Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bayern Munich and head coach Thomas Tuchel will part ways at the end of the season. Why has the announcement come now and what does it tell us? Why isn’t Tuchel leaving immediately? And will Bayern be able to compete with Liverpool to make Xabi Alonso their new manager in the summer? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic’s German football writer Raphael Honigstein and Nick Miller. Produced by Mike Stavrou Executive producer: Adey Moorhead Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Last week Kylian Mbappe told Paris Saint Germain of his decision to leave the club at the end of the season with Real Madrid the expected destination but as their superstar departs, what next for PSG? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by French football writer and broadcaster Tom Williams and The Athletic's Carl Anka to analyse what comes next for Mbappe as well as the direction the French champions head in next. The panel assess what options will be open to PSG in the transfer market with the likes of Victor Osimhen, Frenkie De Jong and Rafael Leao all being linked with Luis Enrique's side following Mbappe's decision. Produced by Guy Clarke Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Related articles: Who should PSG sign to replace Kylian Mbappe? - The Athletic Kylian Mbappe is leaving, so what next for Paris Saint-Germain? - The Athletic Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Man United want Dan Ashworth to be their new sporting director. He has been placed on gardening leave after informing Newcastle of his desire to leave the club. But Newcastle want a huge fee of 20 MILLION pounds to release Ashworth from his contract. So how will this tussle between the two clubs play out as both teams chase Champions League football next season. And why is Ashworth so sought after?  Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic’s David Ornstein, Manchester United writer Laurie Whitwell and Newcastle correspondent Chris Waugh. Produced by Mike Stavrou Executive producer: Adey Moorhead Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Michael Bailey and co breakdown matchweek 25 of the Premier League. The headline clash is Saturday's late game between Manchester City and Chelsea. The last meeting was a 4-4 classic, but can Chelsea take anything away this time? Elsewhere Luton host in-form Manchester United, who are going for their 5th win in a row, while Arsenal and Liverpool travel to Burnley and Brentford respectively hoping to keep pace at the top.  Host: Michael Bailey Guests: Tim Spiers, Nick Miller, JJ Bull Producer: John Rogers Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lionel Messi’s move to Inter Miami appeared to be a marketing dream for all concerned, that was before their pre-season tour of Asia. After playing just seven minutes in Saudi Arabia and missing a ‘last dance’ with Cristiano Ronaldo, Messi failed to feature in Hong Kong with the fallout still rumbling on. So why has Messi’s no-show caused geo-political tensions to rise and is the GOAT in danger of becoming a show pony in the final stages of his illustrious career? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Adam Crafton and Paul Tenorio to analyse the episode as well as dissect the wider impact on the growth of MLS. Produced by Guy Clarke Additional Production by Mike Stavrou Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Further reading: ‘A thuggish flamingo’: Why China turned on Lionel Messi - The Athletic Hong Kong uproar, Messi injured and just one win: Inside Inter Miami’s Asian tour - The Athletic Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

West Ham’s 6-0 defeat to Arsenal last weekend was the club’s worst home defeat in over 60 years… and the fans voted with their feet. Wins over Man United and Arsenal in December had seen supporters unite behind David Moyes. But a poor run of results have swiftly soured the mood at the London Stadium. So.. will Moyes bid farewell to the Hammers when his contract expires this summer, or can he turn things around? And what do West Ham’s owners - and more importantly the fans - really want for the club?  Produced by Mike Stavrou Additional production: Jay Beale Executive producer: Adey Moorhead Further reading: https://theathletic.com/5267036/2024/02/12/west-ham-david-moyes/?source=audio_podcast_podcastID_144_ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bayern Munich are out of both domestic Cup competitions and were humbled by Xabi Alonso’s Leverkusen side at the weekend. As pressure mounts ahead of their Champions League game at Lazio this week… Why are things not going as smoothly as usual for Bayern? And is it REALLY possible Kane could go another season without finally winning a title? Is Thomas Tuchel in trouble? And could Bayern potentially tempt Alonso this summer? Ayo Akinwolere is with the Athletic’s German football writer Raphael Honigstein and England and Tottenham reporter Jack Pitt-Brooke. Produced by Mike Stavrou Additional production: Jay Beale Executive producer: Adey Moorhead Further reading:  https://theathletic.com/5263314/2024/02/11/bayern-munich-thomas-tuchel-bayer-leverkusen/?source=audio_podcast_podcastID_144_ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Manchester United's 2-1 win at Villa Park on Sunday made it four consecutive wins for the first time this season, but what is the significance of that? Have Erik Ten Hag's side got a realistic shot at recovering their hopes of securing Champions League qualification, or is this latest run just the latest false dawn at Old Trafford ahead of a summer reset? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Adam Crafton and Man United writer Laurie Whitwell to discuss what's been behind the recent revival and how long it may be able to go on for. Produced by Guy Clarke Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Related articles: McTominay’s seven goals have earned Man United 12 points. What does it say about Ten Hag’s side? - The Athletic Manchester United finally have ‘foundation’ to develop young players – Erik ten Hag - The Athletic Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Adam Leventhal returns to preview a bumper weekend of football ahead, including the Premier League as well as title matchups in Germany and Spain, and two international cup finals. The Premier League matchweek is headlined by fourth-place Villa welcoming eighth-place Manchester United to Villa Park. Both are chasing Champions League football, and Villa could open up an 11-point gap over the visitors. Elsewhere Manchester City welcome Everton hoping to extended their winning run to 10 games in all competitions, and Spurs head to Brighton in another eye-catching fixture. Saturday also sees the top two in Spain and Germany face off, with Jon MacKenzie filling us in on all the ramifications of Real Madrid vs Girona and Bayer Leverkusen vs Bayern Munich. And finally, both the Asian Cup and AFCON tournaments come to an end this weekend - we preview both finals. Further reading: https://theathletic.com/5243354/2024/02/07/fake-man-united-news-social-media/?source=audio_podcast_podcastID_144_ Host: Adam Leventhal Guests: Tim Spiers, Jon Mackenzie, Joey D’Urso Producer: John Rogers *** • This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. If you’re thinking of starting therapy, give BetterHelp a try. Our listeners get 10% off their first month at BetterHelp.com/athleticfootball Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After four weeks of showcasing what the continent has to offer, the Africa Cup of Nations is down to a final two. Hosts Ivory Coast play Nigeria in Sunday’s showpiece final in what has been the most thrilling AFCON in decades. But what’s made it so good? Has the on-pitch drama been matched by the eyeballs watching the tournament?  And what does AFCON need to do off the pitch to match the success on it? Host Ayo Akinwolere is joined by former Ivory Coast defender, and 2012 AFCON runner-up, Sol Bamba as well as The Athletic's Jay Harris to discuss and debate what has made AFCON 2023 such a success. Produced by Guy Clarke Additional Production by Mike Stavrou Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Related articles: The story of Amad Diallo – and the man accused of trafficking him to Europe - The Athletic AFCON finally has African managers. But the rest of the world has not caught up - The Athletic *** • This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. If you’re thinking of starting therapy, give BetterHelp a try. Our listeners get 10% off their first month at BetterHelp.com/athleticfootball Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Man City look unstoppable…  Victory over Brentford on Monday was their ninth consecutive win across all competitions… Win all their games and Pep Guardiola’s side will be Champions  But is their fourth Premier League title in a row already set in stone? Or are there enough flaws in this City team for the likes of Arsenal & Liverpool to believe?   Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic’s data expert & Man City fan Thom Harris, Manchester United writer Carl Anka… and representing Tottenham - it’s Charlie Eccleshare. Produced by Mike Stavrou Additional production: Jay Beale Executive producer: Adey Moorhead Further reading: https://theathletic.com/5254392/2024/02/07/manchester-city-premier-league-title-liverpool-arsenal/?source=audio_podcast_podcastID_144_ *** • This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. If you’re thinking of starting therapy, give BetterHelp a try. Our listeners get 10% off their first month at BetterHelp.com/athleticfootball Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After a heavy defeat at the weekend, home fans at Stamford Bridge made their feelings clear.. Less than a year on from the sacking of Graham Potter, Mauricio Pochettino’s Chelsea sit in the bottom half of the Premier League table So…. after spending so heavily on players over the past 19 months, what exactly is owner Todd Boehly’s plan for Chelsea? And where does this leave the Pochettino Project? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic’s Chelsea writer Liam Twomey, who joins us fresh from attending Mauricio Pochettino’s press conference, and in the studio is Commissioning Editor for the Athletic - Dom Fifield.  Produced by Mike Stavrou Additional production: Jay Beale Executive producer: Adey Moorhead Further reading: https://theathletic.com/5252016/2024/02/06/chelsea-pochettino-eghbali-boehly-thiago/?source=audio_podcast_podcastID_144_ https://theathletic.com/5250288/2024/02/05/chelsea-pochettino-silva-boehly-clearlake-wolves/?source=audio_podcast_podcastID_144_ *** • This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. If you’re thinking of starting therapy, give BetterHelp a try. Our listeners get 10% off their first month at BetterHelp.com/athleticfootball Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Having moved to within just two points of the top of the Premier League, are Arsenal serious contenders to win this season's Premier League? The Gunners saw of Liverpool 3-1 on Sunday in a must-win game for their title hopes as Mikel Arteta's side hope to go one better than last season. Join Ayo Akinwolere, James McNicholas and Oli Kay as they analyse Arsenal's win over table-toppers Liverpool before assessing the credibility of their title chances with champions Manchester City also waiting to take advantage with Pep Guardiola's side having games in hand on those above them. Produced by Guy Clarke Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Further reading: Arsenal bring back chaos football – and their title challenge feels stronger for it - The Athletic Jorginho interview: Arsenal ‘energy’, no-hop penalties, love for Havertz, knowing strengths - The Athletic *** • This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. If you’re thinking of starting therapy, give BetterHelp a try. Our listeners get 10% off their first month at BetterHelp.com/athleticfootball Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Michael Bailey sits in for Adam Leventhal for another preview of the weekend ahead!  Headlining the fixture list is Arsenal vs Liverpool - is it now or never for Arsenal to get back in the title race?  Elsewhere a downturn in form has seen Everton drift into the relegation zone, but will Champions League-chasing Spurs pile on the misery at Goodison?  And Manchester United's chaotic season continued midweek with a 4-3 win away to Wolves. Can they back it up this Sunday as they welcome West Ham? Host: Michael Bailey Guests: Tim Spiers, Jon Mackenzie, Nnamdi Onyeagwara Producer: John Rogers Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's been a low-key transfer window as the Premier League’s Profitability and Sustainability Rules showed their teeth. Saudi spending paused, the “Chelsea loophole” closed and clubs instead left scouring the market for loans or cut-price deals. The summer, however, things could ramp up again though clubs will start to work with two deadlines in mind! Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Oli Kay and Joey D'Urso to discuss the impact of financial restrictions on the state of the transfer market and whether or not the paralysis could continue into the summer market. James Horncastle, Dermot Corrigan and Seb Stafford-Bloor also drop by to paint the picture across Europe explaining the financial landscape in Italy, Spain and Germany respectively. Produced by Guy Clarke Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Further reading: What Europe’s leading clubs will need to do in the summer of two transfer deadlines - The Athletic What is PSR and why do Premier League rules only allow clubs to lose £105m? - The Athletic Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Manchester United say Marcus Rashford has “taken responsibility for his actions” and will be available for selection again after being dropped  This after we reported Rashford went for a night before reporting ill & missing training the following day United says that the disciplinary matter has been dealt with internally and is now closed. But given how the likes of Jadon Sancho were dealt with, has Erik ten Hag been tough enough with Rashford?  Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic’s Mark Critchley & Andy Mitten who writes about United for us & is also editor of fanzine United We Stand. Produced by Jay Beale. Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Further Reading: Have Manchester United been tough enough with Marcus Rashford? - The Athletic Marcus Rashford is testing the patience of fans who fear his talent could be wasted - The Athletic Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After a humiliating defeat on Saturday, Barcelona manager Xavi announced he’d be stepping down from his position at the end of the season.  So what led Xavi to make this decision when he did?  And as financial troubles & power struggles continue behind scenes whilst the team struggle on the pitch What next for Barcelona?  Is it time for a cultural reset for the club with perhaps the most famous identity in world football?  Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic’s La Liga writer Dermot Corrigan and our FC Barcelona correspondent Pol Ballus Produced by Jay Beale Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Further reading: Xavi’s Barcelona resignation: The full story behind his decision to step down in June Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On Friday morning the world of football was shaken by news Jurgen Klopp is to leave Liverpool at the end of the season. After more than eight years in charge the German is to walk away in the summer, leaving the Reds in need of a new management team including a new Sporting Director, manager and first team coaching staff. So how do Liverpool go about beginning their search for a successor to their most successful manager of the Premier League era? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's football correspondent David Ornstein, Liverpool writer James Pearce and German football writer, and author of the Jurgen Klopp biography Bring The Noise, Raphael Honigstein to analyse Klopp's decision to leave and explain where it leaves Liverpool. Produced by Guy Clarke Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Adam Leventhal and co return to preview another bumper FA Cup weekend, featuring 16 matches, including several heavyweight Premier League ties. Friday night sees Spurs welcome Man City back to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, a match in which they boast a remarkable record: five games played, five wins, zero goals conceded. Can Man City snap the streak? Also on Friday, Aston Villa head to Stamford Bridge. The Villains may be way ahead in the league, but Chelsea are coming off the back of recent cup success, reaching the Carabao Cup final on Tuesday. Elsewhere we have a Black Country Derby, with West Brom hosting Wolves. We catch up with how the home side has fared since Premier League relegation in 2021 and ask whether they can upset the odds come Sunday. Host: Adam Leventhal Guests: Tim Spiers, Jon Mackenzie, Luke Bosher Producer: John Rogers Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Liverpool have announced that Jurgen Klopp is stepping down as manager at the end of the season. After a hugely successful eight and a half years at the club, Klopp will take a sabbatical. So what next for him, and what next for Liverpool? The Athletic's Liverpool correspondent James Pearce reacts to this seismic news. Host: Iain Macintosh Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Just 18 months after completing a £45m move to Manchester City from his boyhood club Leeds United, Kalvin Phillips is heading out on loan to West Ham United. So why has the move ended in failure for the England international after flourishing under Marcelo Bielsa at Elland Road prior to signing for Pep Guardiola. And with Euro 2024 on the horizon can David Moyes rejuvenate one of Gareth Southgate's most trusted midfielders? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Man City writer Sam Lee, Leeds United writer Phil Hay and England correspondent Jack Pitt-Brooke to discuss. Produced by Guy Clarke Additional Production by Mike Stavrou Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Into a cup final and not spending a penny in January… Couldn’t be Todd Boehly’s Chelsea could it?  So, is this another false dawn or is Pochettino's project starting to gather pace?  And as the Blues struggle to find suitable buyers for players like Armando Broja and Conor Gallagher - would anyone actually notice if someone gently closed the January transfer window now? Produced by Adonis Pratsides Additional Production: Jay Beale Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices