
The Athletic FC Podcast
1,422 episodes — Page 11 of 29

Are Slot's Liverpool serious title contenders?
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 AkinwolereWith: Oli Kay, James Pearce and Dermot CorriganExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Guy Clarke Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Preview - Aston Villa v Man United
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 LeventhalWith: Tim Spiers, Nick Miller, Jacob Tanswell, Liam Tharme, Ahmed WalidExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Jay Beale Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How Arsenal mastered set-pieces
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 AkinwolereWith: Phil Hay, Liam Tharme and Nedum OnuohaExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Guy Clarke Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Can PSG succeed without superstars?
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 AkinwolereWith: Tom Williams and Pierre-Etienne MinonzioExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Guy Clarke Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is Cole Palmer the best player in the Premier League?
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 AkinwolereWith: Liam Twomey and Phil HayExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is Ten Hag running out of excuses?
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 AkinwolereWith: Laurie Whitwell, Jay Harris and Phil HayExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Preview - Manchester United vs Tottenham
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 LeventhalWith: Tim Spiers, Jon MackenzieExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Jay Beale Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Who wants the new Club World Cup?
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 AkinwolereWith: Matt Slater & Adam CraftonExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Guy Clarke Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is Everton’s takeover saga finally over?
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 AkinwolereWith: Matt Slater, Paddy Boyland and James Horncastle Executive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Has Lopetegui got an impossible job at West Ham?
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 AkinwolereWith: Benji Lanyado, Jon MackenzieExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Did Arsenal rattle Man City?
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 AkinwolereWith: Sam Lee and James McNicholasExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Guy Clarke Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Preview - Manchester City vs Arsenal
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 LeventhalWith: Tim Spiers, Jon MackenzieExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Jay Beale Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What can Aston Villa achieve this season?
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 ThomsonExecutive Producer: Adey Moorhead Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How do Real Madrid keep their Galacticos happy?
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 AkinwolereWith: Dermot Corrigan, Tomas Hill Lopez-Menchero and Ramón CalderónExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Man City's 115 charges: how could they be punished if they lose the case?
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 AkinwolereWith: Phil Hay and Matt SlaterExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is Arsenal's squad deep enough to match Man City?
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 HayHost: Ayo AkinwolereWith: David Ornstein & Phil HayExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Nick Thomson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Preview - Tottenham vs Arsenal
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 LeventhalWith: Jon Mackenzie, Nick MillerExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Jay Beale Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How do sporting directors prove their worth?
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 AkinwolereWith: Phil Hay, Chris Waugh and Simon HughesExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Guy Clarke Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is too much football ruining the game?
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 AkinwolereGuests: Maheta Molango and Stuart JamesExec Prod: Adey MoorheadProd: Abi Paterson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Chelsea ownership crisis explained
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 AkinwolereWith: Adam Crafton, Liam Twomey, Simon JohnsonExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Jay Beale Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is Pochettino the right fit for USMNT?
Mauricio Pochettino is set to be confirmed as the new head coach of the US Men’s National TeamThe Argentine takes charge less than two years out from co-hosting the World CupSo, 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 AkinwolereWith: Adam Crafton and Felipe CardenasExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Guy Clarke Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Premier League Review: What we've learned so far
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 LeventhalWith: Tim Spiers, Jon Mackenzie, Mark CareyExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Jay Beale Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is the Premier League losing control of PSR?
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 AthleticHost: Ian IrvingWith: Matt Slater and Phil HayExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Guy Clarke Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why has Osimhen ended up in Turkey?
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 IrvingWith: James Horncastle and Carl AnkaExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Can Everton be saved?
EToday 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 AkinwolereWith: Paddy Boyland, Phil Hay and Matt SlaterExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Has Slot exposed Ten Hag already?
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 HughesHost: Ayo AkinwolereWith: James Pearce, Carl Anka and David OrnsteinExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Guy Clarke Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Preview - Manchester United vs Liverpool
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 LeventhalWith: Tim Spiers, Jon Mackenzie, Carl Anka, James Pearce, Neil MellorExecutive Producer: Ben GreenProducer: Jay Beale Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Will the new-look Champions League be more exciting?
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 AkinwolereWith: Matt Slater and Phil HayExecutive Producer: Abi PatersonProducer: Guy Clarke Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Are big-spending Brighton onto something special?
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 AkinwolereWith: Liam Tharme and Seb Stafford-BloorExecutive Producer: Abi PatersonProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ugarte, Sancho and Chelsea's fire sale: Ornstein’s transfers to watch
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 AkinwolereWith: David Ornstein and Carl AnkaExecutive Producer: Abi PatersonProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Will Kompany restore Bayern's dominance?
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 AkinwolereWith: Seb Stafford-Bloor and Andy JonesExecutive Producer: Abi PatersonProducer: Guy Clarke Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Preview - Aston Villa vs Arsenal
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 LeventhalWith: Tim Spiers, Jon Mackenzie, Jacob Tanswell, Liam Tharme, James McNicholasExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Jay Beale Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is Conte already losing patience at Napoli?
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 AkinwolereWith: James Horncastle and Jack Pitt-BrookeExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Guy Clarke Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why Barcelona are letting Gundogan re-join Man City
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 AkinwolereWith: Sam Lee and Pol BallúsExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why hasn't Ivan Toney got his 'big move'?
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 LeagueBut where is the interest from Premier League clubs for the England international?Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Jay Harris and Liam TharmeAdditional reporting: Laurie Whitwell, James McNicholas, Sam LeeProducers: Abi Paterson & Guy ClarkeExecutive Producer: Adey Moorhead Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What next for Sterling after Chelsea snub?
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 AkinwolereWith: Oli Kay and Liam TwomeyExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Preview - Chelsea vs Manchester City
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 BaileyWith: Tim Spiers, Jon Mackenzie, Liam Twomey, Sam LeeExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Jay Beale Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How secure is Eddie Howe at Newcastle?
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 AkinwolereWith: Chris Waugh, Phil Hay and David OrnsteinExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Guy Clarke Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Are Liverpool being left behind by busy rivals?
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 AkinwolereWith: Phil Hay and Simon HughesExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is Solanke Tottenham's replacement for Kane?
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 AkinwolereWith: Jack Pitt-Brooke and Seb Stafford-Bloor Executive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Will Man United's summer of change end the chaos?
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=4Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Laurie Whitwell and Carl AnkaExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Guy Clarke Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Uncertainty at Man City: Pep, Alvarez, and looming charges
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 LeventhalWith: Phil Hay and Sam LeeExecutive Producer: Abi PatersonProducer: Jay Beale Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Chelsea: new manager, same problems
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 AkinwolereWith: Phil Hay and Liam TwomeyExecutive Producer: Abi PatersonProducer: Guy Clarke Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How can Barcelona afford Dani Olmo?
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 AkinwolereWith: Pol Ballús and Tomás Hill López-MencheroExecutive Producer: Abi PatersonProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Zlatan interview: Milan love affair, Man United and being 'God'
EOn 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 AkinwolereWith: Adam CraftonExecutive Producer: Abi PatersonProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Are Arsenal ready to topple Man City?
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 AkinwolereWith: Art De Roche and Adrian ClarkeExecutive Producer: Abi PatersonProducer: Guy ClarkeRelated articles:Riccardo Calafiori, Arsenal’s new defender who got lifts from De Rossi and models his game on Stones - The AthleticThe five games Arsenal failed to score in last season: What lessons can be learned - The Athletic Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Are Premier League friendlies enough for U.S. fans?
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 AkinwolereWith: Adam CraftonExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Guy Clarke Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What now for Southgate & England?
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 AkinwolereWith: Oli Kay, David Ornstein, Pol BallusExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducers: Guy Clarke & Jay Beale Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is Lamine Yamal the heir to Messi's throne?
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 LeventhalWith: Pol Ballus and Dermot CorriganExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Guy ClarkeRelated articles:Perfection, by Lamine Yamal - The AthleticThe story behind the viral photos of Lionel Messi and a baby Lamine Yamal - The Athletic Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Are England good or just lucky?
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 AkinwolereWith: Oli Kay, Jack Pitt-Brooke and Tim SpiersExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Guy ClarkeRelated articles:England, a team of comebacks, late winners and finals. These are extraordinary times - The AthleticOllie Watkins, Cole Palmer and an England goal that was worth the wait - The Athletic Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.