The Athletic FC Podcast

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 AkinwolereWith: James Pearce, Matt SlaterExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Jay Beale Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 AkinwolereWith: David Ornstein and Carl AnkaExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 AkinwolereWith: Oli Kay, Jacob Whitehead and Ahmed WalidExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Guy ClarkeRelated articlesIs Harry Kane in danger of becoming England’s Cristiano Ronaldo? - The AthleticMemphis Depay vs Wout Weghorst: The striker debate which cuts to the heart of Dutch football - The Athletic Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 LeventhalWith: Mark Critchley, Dan SheldonExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Jay Beale Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 AkinwolereWith: Oli Kay and Tim SpiersExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Guy ClarkeRelated articles:Cristiano Ronaldo cannot rage against the dying of the light forever - The AthleticThe cult of Cristiano Ronaldo - The Athletic Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 AkinwolereWith: Nancy Froston and Jay HarrisExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 AkinwolereWith: David Ornstein and Chris WaughExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Guy ClarkeInside Newcastle’s frantic attempts to sell players and comply with PSR - The AthleticManchester United agree deal with Newcastle to appoint Dan Ashworth as new sporting director - The Athletic Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 AkinwolereWith: Jack Pitt-Brooke, Jacob WhiteheadExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Jay Beale Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 LeventhalWith: Tom Williams, Pierre-Etienne MinonzioExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 AkinwolereWith: Seb Stafford-Bloor, Mark Carey, Mark CritchleyExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Jay Beale Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 AkinwolereWith: Oli Kay, Matt Slater and Liam TharmeExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Guy ClarkeRelated articles:Gareth Southgate understands England fan reaction after objects thrown at him following Slovenia draw - The AthleticEuro 2024 and the lopsided draw affecting which teams are considered likely finalists - The Athletic Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 RutzlerExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 BaileyWith: Pol Ballus and Dermot CorriganExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Guy ClarkeRelated articles:Spain’s tiki-taka era might be over – but its legacy continues to divide - The AthleticSpain’s Nico Williams serves notice – his €55m release clause looks a transfer bargain - The Athletic Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 BaileyWith: Seb Stafford-Bloor and Liam TharmeExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 AkinwolereWith: Thom Harris, Renato Senise and Tom BurrowsExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Guy ClarkeCopa 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 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 AkinwolereWith: Tim Spiers and David NovoExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 AkinwolereWith: David Ornstein and Paddy BoylandExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Guy ClarkeRelated articles:Manchester United make opening £35m offer for Jarrad Branthwaite - The AthleticWhy Jarrad Branthwaite makes sense for Man Utd – a two-footed duel winner - The Athletic Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 AkinwolereWith: Oli Kay, Jack Pitt-Brooke, James Horncastle, Dermot Corrigan, Seb Stafford-BloorExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Jay Beale Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 AkinwolereWith: David Ornstein, Adam Crafton and Mark CritchleyExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Guy ClarkeRelated articlesInside Erik ten Hag’s Manchester United reprieve: Tuchel, De Zerbi and the key meetings - The AthleticErik ten Hag to stay as Manchester United manager - The Athletic Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 DaviesHost: Adam LeventhalWith: David Ornstein, Dermot Corrigan, Pol BallusExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Jay Beale Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 LeventhalWith: David OrnsteinExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 LeventhalWith: Seb Stafford-Bloor and Andy JonesExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Guy ClarkeRelated articles:Bayern Munich, Vincent Kompany and the summer’s strangest managerial appointment - The AthleticWhy do Bayern Munich want Vincent Kompany? - The Athletic Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 LeventhalWith: Simon Johnson, Jack Pitt-BrookeExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducers: Mike Stavrou & Jay Beale Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 AkinwolereWith: Sam Lee, Oli Kay and Mark CritchleyExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Guy ClarkeRelated articles:Inside Manchester City’s history-making fourth Premier League title in a row - The AthleticManchester City’s wonderful team and the 115 charges – can the two be separated? - The Athletic Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 LeventhalWith: Tim Spiers and Jon MackenzieProducer: Mike StavrouExecutive Producer: Adey Moorhead Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 ClarkeExecutive Producer Adey Moorhead Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 AkinwolereWith: Matt Woosnam and Dominic FifieldProducer: Mike StavrouExecutive Producer: Adey Moorhead Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 AkinwolereWith: Carl Anka and George CaulkinProducer: Mike StavrouExecutive Producer: Adey Moorhead Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 AkinwolereWith: David Ornstein and Jordan CampbellExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Guy ClarkeRelated articlesArsenal marry progress and history with another 1-0 win at Old Trafford - The AthleticMikel Arteta hails Arsenal for opening ‘box of dreams’ on possible Premier League title - The Athletic Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 LeventhalWith: Tim Spiers and Jon MackenzieProducer: Mike StavrouExecutive Producer: Adey Moorhead Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 AkinwolereWith: Simon Johnson & Liam TwomeyProducers: Guy Clarke & Jay BealeExecutive Producer: Adey Moorhead Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 AkinwolereWith: Jan Åge Fjørtoft and Seb Stafford-BloorProducer: Mike StavrouExecutive Producer: Adey Moorhead Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 AkinwolereWith: David Ornstein and Tim SpiersProducer: Mike StavrouExecutive Producer: Adey Moorhead Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 AkinwolereWith: Dermot Corrigan and Tomas Hill Lopez-MencheroExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Guy ClarkeRelated articles:How Real Madrid won La Liga – artful Ancelotti, brilliant Bellingham and unlikely new heroes - The AthleticReal Madrid’s ‘dystopian’ dominance – Barcelona and La Liga rivals are way behind - The Athletic Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 LeventhalWith: Tim Spiers, Andy Jones and Jordan CampbellProducer: Mike StavrouExecutive Producer: Adey Moorhead Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 AkinwolereWith: Matt SlaterExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Guy Clarke Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 AkinwolereWith: Pol Ballús and Tomás Hill López-MencheroProducer: Mike StavrouExecutive Producer: Adey Moorhead Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 AkinwolereWith: David Ornstein and James PearceProducer: Mike StavrouExecutive Producer: Adey Moorhead Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.