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The Athletic FC Podcast

The Athletic FC Podcast

1,353 episodes — Page 17 of 28

Weekend Preview: Man City look to respond to Arsenal, Potter hanging on as Leeds come to visit & is Liverpool's latest resurgence real?

Dan Bardell is joined by George Elek, Tim Spiers and bet365's Steve Freeth as Manchester City look to respond to Arsenal opening up a five-point lead in the Premier League.Chelsea welcome Leeds United to Stamford Bridge with the pressure ramping up on Graham Potter while Manchester United look for a first win at Anfield since 2016, while the Reds head into the game unbeaten in four without conceding.Produced by Guy Clarke Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 3, 202349 min

Have Bayern Munich got worse or is the Bundesliga getting better?

Mark Chapman is joined by The Athletic's r Rafa Honigstein & also Seb Stafford-Bloor to discuss the German Bundelsiga - perhaps the most exciting league in Europe this season.11 years since a team other than Bayern Munich were champions, this year the top four teams are separated by four points & four German teams in the last 16 of The Champions League..So why is the Bundesliga so strong at the moment & will it last? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 2, 202329 min

Does it matter that Tottenham don't win trophies?

Joining Mark Chapman is Jack Pitt Brooke and Tim Spiers to cover the past month at Tottenham Hotspur and what the future could yield for the club.In this episode the panel discuss the managerial situation, whether Antonio Conte will be there next season, and what exactly Cristian Stellini's role has been with the assistant filling in on the touchline - and overseeing excellent results.Plus with the announcement of another external partnership for the club, this time with Formula 1, we ask what is more important: the trophy cabinet or the brand?Produced by Abi Paterson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 1, 202333 min

Why Arsenal must protect Bukayo Saka at all costs

Does Bukayo Saka need better protection from Premier League referees? Do Arsenal themselves rely too heavily on the 21-year-old, and, with the world at his feet, how seismic a moment is it in Arteta's 'process' that he has decided to commit his future to his boyhood club? Host Mark Chapman is joined by The Athletic's Adam Crafton and Arsenal correspondent Amy Lawrence to discuss...How do you stop 'rotational fouling', where does he rank in terms of most-fouled PL players, do top players even want a rest and how central is he to Arsenal's renaissance? Plus, will he end up being a one-club man and why the comparisons with David 'Rocky' Rocastle are so poignant.Produced by Adonis Pratsides Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 28, 202348 min

Are Manchester United back?

Mark Chapman is joined by The Athletic's Adam Crafton & Laurie Whitwell to discuss whether this is the start of something big for Erik Ten Hag at Old Trafford or another false dawn as seen under the likes of Louis van Gaal, José Mourinho & Ole Gunnar SolskjaerThe Athletic's Newcastle writer Chris Waugh shares his thoughts from Wembley, outlining where improvement is needed despite the giant step forward under Eddie Howe at the club. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 27, 202330 min

Weekend Preview: Battle of the Brazilians for the Carabao crown, unpredictability reigns in the title race & can Potter survive?

Dan Bardell is joined by George Elek, bet365's Steve Freeth and Tim Spiers ahead of Sunday's Carabao Cup Final at Wembley with both Casemiro and Bruno Guimaraes returning for Manchester United and Newcastle United respectively.The title race is hotting up too with Arsenal heading to Leicester and Man City off to Bournemouth.Can Graham Potter hold on at Chelsea - and who will hold onto their Premier League status as four of those in trouble go head-to-head on Saturday.Produced by Guy Clarke Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 24, 202350 min

Karius’ shot at redemption & evolution of De Gea

Mark Chapman is joined by former Manchester United keeper Peter Schmeichel, former Liverpool & England goalkeeper Chris Kirkland & England & Southampton Goalkeeper coach Dave Watson who played also in the Premier League with Barnsley.Does the risk of ball playing keepers outweigh the reward? How do keepers recover when things go wrong with millions watching?They discuss the huge challenge ahead for Loris Karius Newcastle United in Sunday’s League cup final against Manchester United five years on from his errors in the Champions League final.At the other end Peter gives tells us how David De Gea has evolved with the demands of Erik ten Hag at Manchester United.Also a look back to Tuesday which saw two of the very best - Alison & Thibaut Courtois - made mistakes on the biggest stage. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 23, 202337 min

How Real Madrid schooled Liverpool - on and off the field

Mark Chapman is joined by Dermot Corrigan and James Pearce to look back on a classic night of Champions League action as Liverpool were dealt a sucker punch by Real Madrid at Anfield.From gift-wrapped goals, to Gomez, to Galacticos there is a gulf between these two sides now, and it looks like it's only going to get bigger. Listen to hear about how Madrid have got their recruitment so right in recent years. The panel also cover, as they must when Liverpool are mentioned, the Bellingham Prism - could he have been the difference?Plus there is insight on the protests against UEFA from both sides too that occurred on Tuesday night too.Produced by Abi Paterson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 22, 202326 min

Manchester United Takeover: Who's trying to buy them & will the Glazers actually sell?

With two takeover bids on the table, will the Glazer family's 18-year reign at Manchester United finally come to an end? Host Mark Chapman is joined by The Athletic's Matt Slater and Laurie Whitwell to discuss the bids, the people behind them and all the issues in-between...What is the true scale of the damage inflicted on the club by the Glazers and are they even serious about selling this time? Do Manchester United actually need a sovereign wealth fund to compete with Chelsea & Manchester City and why the Premier League are powerless to stop Gulf states buying football clubs in UK.Produced by Adonis Pratsides Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 21, 202336 min

Is Aubameyang the answer to Chelsea's problems?

Mark Chapman is joined by The Athletic's David Ornstein to discuss the problems at Chelsea for manager Graham Potter.Another poor result after that huge spending spree in the January window. A second game in a week without a goal & a proven Premier League goalscorer can’t even make the bench.So, almost a year since Roman Abramovich announced his intentions to sell the club, what’s going wrong at Chelsea & where is Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 20, 202334 min

Bobby '90: Sir Bobby Robson on managing England, Barcelona, Gazza and Bryan Robson

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Sir Bobby Robson would have turned 90 today, so it's fitting that St James' Park will be rocking later when Newcastle host Liverpool.To mark the occasion The Athletic, with the kind permission of his family, have released Bobby '90 - a special podcast series featuring previous unheard interview tapes with one of football's greatest characters in the months and years before he died.This is the second episode from the four-part series which features Sir Bobby in conversation with The Athletic's George Caulkin about his managerial stints with England, Barcelona, Ipswich and what it was like trying to tame Paul Gascoigne.To listen to the rest of the series simply search for 'Pod on the Tyne' wherever you get your podcasts, or follow this link: https://podfollow.com/pod-on-the-tyne Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 18, 202331 min

Weekend Preview: Title showdown fallout, relegation six-pointer & Liverpool look for upturn on the Tyne

Dan Bardell is joined by George Elek, bet365's Steve Freeth and Tim Spiers as they react to Man City's win over Arsenal in midweek, ahead of this weekend's action.Can Arsenal put things right at Villa Park? Who will win the relegation six-pointer between Everton and Leeds Utd? Plus, can Liverpool spark a run of form and back-up their Merseyside derby win as they travel to Newcastle?Produced by Guy Clarke Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 17, 202348 min

Do Manchester United still need Frenkie de Jong?

Mark Chapman is joined by The Athletic's Andy Mitten, Carl Anka, Pol Ballús to discuss Manchester United's interest in Barcelona's Frenkie de Jong .How close did United get last season? Could they go for him again? Is he still a player they actually need? Would he be allowed to leave? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 16, 202330 min

Arteta vs Guardiola: Apprentice vs Master

Mark Chapman is joined by Art de Roché and Sam Lee to talk about the Premier League's two most exhausting managers to watch on the touchline and to get you ready for the big match between the sides.Is it time to stop talking about Arteta as Pep's apprentice? Why do we not see more assistants become managers? And how do you expect the teams to line up tactically on Wednesday night at the Emirates? Those questions and more on the show today.Produced by Abi Paterson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 15, 202333 min

Liverpool, Man United, Qatar & What makes a good Premier League owner?

It's been 100 days since Liverpool Football Club was put up for sale. Manchester United expect a takeover bid from Qatar, Tottenham want ENIC out and Newcastle are Top 4 contenders again - So, what makes a good Premier League club owner? Host Mark Chapman is joined by The Athletic's Matt Slater, Oli Kay and George Caulkin to explore...Are FSG the epitome of sensible ownership, should a State be able to buy a PL club in the first place and is an owners legacy actually more important than how much success is achieved on the pitch?Plus, more on how Manchester United's big announcement stunted FSG's own efforts to sell, why half of all Premier League clubs now operate within a multi-club model and who is the best PL owner of all-time?Produced by Adonis Pratsides Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 14, 202348 min

The Super League return explained: How it would work, the response & what next

Mark Chapman is joined by The Athletic's Matt Slater & Adam Crafton to discuss The return of The Super League with promises of a new-look structure based on “sporting performance”, with no permanent members.Is it too good to be true or could this be a positive reset for the game? Coming up you’ll hear exactly what is being proposed, how football has responded & what happens next. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 13, 202339 min

Weekend Preview: Frail Liverpool welcome buoyant Everton, Chelsea looking for attacking fix & Leeds v Man Utd: The Rematch

Dan Bardell is joined by George Elek, bet365's Steve Freeth and The Athletic's Tim Spiers to look ahead to the weekend's Premier League action, including Monday night's Merseyside derby.Chelsea's trip to West Ham United is also on the menu along with Leeds United v Manchester United four days on from their 2-2 draw at Old Trafford as well as Manchester City looking to respond to defeat at Tottenham as Aston Villa travel to the Etihad.Produced by Guy Clarke Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 10, 202346 min

The Rise of Vinicius Jr & Spanish Football's Problem With Racism

Mark Chapman is joined by The Athletic's Dermot Corrigan & Mario Cortegana to discuss the rise of Real Madrid's Brazilian superstar Vinicius Jr and the recent spate of racist incidents he has had to endure.Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti believes Spanish football has a racism problem — is he right ? and if so what are La Liga and Real Madrid doing about it? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 9, 202320 min

Leeds’ power struggle: Radrizzani, 49ers Enterprises and who chooses Marsch’s successor?

Join Mark Chapman, Matt Slater and Phil Hay as they explore Leeds United's decision to sack Jesse Marsch - as well as the ongoing power struggle at Elland Road.The panel explore the ownership structure at Leeds with 49ers Enterprises holding a significant minority share in the club, with an option to complete a full buy-out in January 2024, who is making the big calls: them or Andrea Radrizzani?The consortium's role in the January transfer window is also analysed as well as assessing who could be at the top of Victor Orta's list to replace Marsch in the dugout.Produced by Guy Clarke Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 8, 202333 min

Why the Premier League are going to war with Manchester City

So the Premier League has waged a war with its serial Champions, Manchester City - but what is rule W51, could City suffer a points deduction this season or even be stripped of past titles? Host Mark Chapman is joined by The Athletic's Sam Lee and Matt Slater to explain... What have Man City allegedly done wrong, how long is this all going to take, why there is an Arsenal fan on the independent panel and the significance of a postponed government White Paper on football's ability to govern itself.Plus, what lessons we can draw from recent controversy in Serie A, cycling and rugby too.Produced by Adonis Pratsides***• Get 6 months of Babbel language learning for free when you purchase a 6 month subscription by entering the code ATHLETIC at babbel.com/play Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 7, 202333 min

Jurgen Klopp's Liverpool crisis

Mark Chapman is joined by The Athletic's James Pearce & Raphael Honigstein to discuss the problems facing Liverpool in biggest crisis of Jurgen Klopp’s time as manager.What’s gone wrong & what can be done to turn things around? And if things don't improve how might it effect their chances of recruiting elite players such as Jude Bellingham? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 6, 202332 min

Weekend Preview: the Premier League returns after the closure of the transfer window

Dan Bardell is joined by George Elek, bet365's Steve Freeth and The Athletic's Rich Amofa as the Premier League returns following the closure of the transfer window.As well as looking ahead to an Antonio-Conte-less-Tottenham hosting Man City, the panel cast their eyes over an equally tasty Friday night fixture between the two West London clubs of big spending Chelsea and Fulham. Arsenal are the Saturday lunchtime entertainment but they face an intriguing proposition in Sean Dyche's Everton at Goodison Park. Whilst the Kevin Nolan derby will be captivating on Tyneside between Newcastle and West Ham.Produced by Abi Paterson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 3, 202345 min

Jorginho to Arsenal & Sabitzer to Manchester United explained

Mark Chapman is joined by David Ornstein & Adam Crafton to discuss Arsenals signing of Jorginho from Chelsea.Meanwhile Manchester United were also forced to react and make another loan signing - in Marcel Sabitzer - following injury to Cristian Eriksen Are these shrewd moves to help both clubs win trophies this season? Will this lead to bigger from both clubs signings in the summer? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 2, 202336 min

Enzo Fernandez: Chelsea's record-breaking €120m man

David Ornstein and Liam Twomey join Mark Chapman to analyse Chelsea's British Transfer Record deal to sign World Cup winning Enzo Fernandez.The panel discuss how Chelsea managed to pull off the deal to sign the Argentine, the level of finance involved as well as taking a deeper look at the Blues' approach in the transfer market.Also, having spent over £600m since Todd Boehly's takeover what pressure is there on Graham Potter to deliver immediate results?Produced by Guy Clarke Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 1, 202333 min

Pep's Cancelo Culture: Why Man City sanctioned Bayern Munich loan

A PFA Team of the Year regular and an ever-present figure in back-to-back title-winning seasons for Manchester City - So how has Joao Cancelo ended up on loan at Bayern Munich, just hours before the January transfer window closes? Host Mark Chapman is joined by The Athletic's Sam Lee and Pol Ballus to explain...A burning desire to start every game and a history of flare-ups with coaching staff, our panel reveal a sense of inevitability about Cancelo's Man City exit. Plus, why Pep Guardiola's ruthless streak is significant, the difficulties of trying to manage a 'super-squad', how likely a return to the Etihad is this summer and why Bayern Munich were so quick to pounce.Produced by Adonis Pratsides Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 31, 202335 min

Ornstein on transfers: Arsenal, Chelsea, Spurs & more

Mark Chapman is joined by The Athletic's David Ornstein to detail what could happen in the final hours of the January transfer window.They discuss Arsenal's move for Moises Caicedo, Chelsea's bid to sign Enzo Fernandez, and Spurs failed bid for Pedro Porro plus plenty more.The Athletic's Andy Naylor reveals the names Brighton are lining up even if and when Caicedo leaves. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 30, 202328 min

Weekend Preview: Premier League title showdown dress rehearsal, Leeds out to avoid upset & Liverpool plan Brighton revenge mission

Dan Bardell is joined by George Elek as well as The Athletic's Tim Spiers and Rich Amofa as the FA Cup Fourth Round sees the first clash of the Premier League's top two this season.As well as looking ahead to Man City v Arsenal the panel also pick out Accrington Stanley v Leeds United and Tottenham Hotspur's visit to Preston North End.Liverpool's return to Brighton two weeks on from losing 3-0 down on the south coast is also analysed ahead of picking out which ties to keep an eye on in the Fourth Round with a number of EFL sides hoping to spring a suprise.Produced by Guy Clarke Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 27, 202341 min

Transfer window loopholes & FFP explained

Mark Chapman & The Athletic's Matt Slater & Dan Sheldon look at how the huge spending in this January transfer window by Premier League clubs compared to the rest of European Football. Is Financial Fair Play - world football’s attempt at financial self-regulation - creating an unfair playing field that sees Leeds United spend more on one player than all clubs in La Liga & Serie A combined. How are FFP rules affecting the recruitment policy at clubs across Europe & what are the loopholes being jumped through to gain a competitive advantage during the current transfer window Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 26, 202336 min

Salah’s slump: A cause or symptom of Liverpool’s problems?

It's been three league games since Mohamed Salah had a shot on target, never mind a goal, and questions are popping up around the Egyptian's form. But what is it down to? Is it the loss of team mate Sadio Mane? Is his new contract weighing heavy on him? Or is he a symptom of a wider issue at Liverpool?Alongside Mark Chapman to answer those questions and dive into the data around Liverpool's star striker are James Pearce and Duncan AlexanderProduced by Abi Paterson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 25, 202329 min

Everton sack Frank Lampard... What next for both?

What more could Frank Lampard have done at Everton? Host Mark Chapman is joined by The Athletic's Everton writer Patrick Boyland and Chelsea correspondent Liam Twomey to see if after failing at two Premier League clubs, a worrying pattern is emerging for Lampard the manager...The panel explore various similarities and differences between how things unravelled for Frank at both Everton and Chelsea, as well as, whether Everton need a 'firefighter' or a 'project' manager next and why it probably shouldn't be ex-Leeds boss Marcelo Bielsa.Produced by Adonis Pratsides Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 24, 202344 min

Why Juventus were deducted points & how they imploded

Mark Chapman is joined by The Athletic's James Horncastle & Tim Spiers to discuss why Juventus, the biggest team in Italy, were deducted pointsand share what we know about the crisis surrounding the club, the wider impact across Italian football and what happens next.Also discussed the resignation of the Juventus board in November and the challenges both on and off the pitch for the new board. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 23, 202336 min

Weekend Preview: Casemiro misses Arsenal v Man Utd showdown, Liverpool & Chelsea in mid-table meeting & pressure mounts at the London Stadium

Adam Leventhal is joined by George Elek, bet365's Steve Freeth and The Athletic's Tim Spiers ahead of what could be a telling week in the Premier League title race as Arsenal welcome Manchester United, while Man City take on Wolves.At the other end of the table pressure mounts as David Moyes takes on his former employers Everton at the London Stadium.Meanwhile in mid-table Liverpool and Chelsea do battle in Jurgen Klopp's 1,000th game in management at Anfield.Produced by Guy Clarke***This episode is brought to you by Betterhelp, Visit betterhelp.com/athleticfootball today to get 10% off your first month. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 20, 202347 min

The rise of Martin Odegaard and finding ‘home’ at Arsenal

When Arsenal bought Norwegian midfielder Martin Odegaard for £30m in 2021 the expectation among supporters wasn’t particularly high - and some didn’t understand why the club wanted to buy him. After all this was a player who as a teenager was dubbed the “heir to Messi’s throne”.But fast forward 18 months and he’s not only Arsenal’s playmaker, but possibly the best midfielder in the league. It’s been quite a rise for Martin Odegaard.Mark Chapman is joined by Amy Lawrence and Michael Cox to discuss the Arsenal captain in detailProduced by Abi Paterson***This episode is brought to you by Betterhelp, Visit betterhelp.com/athleticfootball today to get 10% off your first month. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 19, 202331 min

Mbappe, Real Madrid & the transfer saga that won’t go away

Ian Irving is joined by The Athletic’s Adam Crafton & Mario Cortegana to discuss a new chapter in one of football’s biggest transfer sagas...Kylian Mbappe and Real Madrid.Are PSG doing the right things to keep him? How might his relationship with teammate Neymar influence his views? How might Real Madrid even afford him?***This episode is brought to you by Betterhelp, Visit betterhelp.com/athleticfootball today to get 10% off your first month. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 18, 202334 min

Death threats, conspiracy & FFP: Is Moshiri's Everton a broken club?

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Board members receiving alleged death threats, home-grown players being chased from Goodison Park, an owner who publicly blames supporters for the churn of managers and a team who are without a Premier League win since October - Host Mark Chapman is joined by The Athletic's Greg O'Keeffe and Senior writer Oli Kay to find out if Everton are broken beyond repair this season?The panel reflect on owner Farhad Moshiri's track-record, assess sanctioned oligarch Alisher Usmanov's current influence and discuss what, if anything, can be done in January to stave off a first top-flight relegation since 1951.Plus, how effective Everton's protests have been, the validity of safety concerns relating to certain Club Directors and why manager Frank Lampard continues to retain most people's support.Produced by Adonis Pratsides***This episode is brought to you by Betterhelp, Visit betterhelp.com/athleticfootball today to get 10% off your first month. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 17, 202335 min

Mykhailo Mudryk - how did Chelsea hijack Arsenal’s transfer target?

Mark Chapman is joined by The Athletic's David Ornstein & Adam Crafton to discuss the crazy chain of events that saw Mykhailo Mudryk end up at Chelsea when it looked like he was destined for Arsenal.David details the work done behind the scenes to sign the forward at both clubs and Adam gives the perspective of the selling club having been embedded with Shakhtar Donetsk in the making of his podcast series Away From Home.***This episode is brought to you by Betterhelp, Visit betterhelp.com/athleticfootball today to get 10% off your first month. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 16, 202337 min

Weekend Preview: Arsenal & Man Utd have derby day questions to answer & Nathan Jones latest magic trick must come at Goodison Park

Dan Bardell is joined by George Elek and The Athletic's Tim Spiers and Rich Amofa ahead of a pivotal weekend in the Premier League as both Arsenal and Man City head to their local rivals.Manchester United will be out to settle the score after losing 6-3 to City at the Etihad in October while Harry Kane sits just one goal shy of Jimmy Greaves' club-record at Spurs.Plus there's reaction to Joao Felix seeing red at Fulham, Nathan Jones taking Southampton to Everton and Brighton & Hove Albion welcoming Liverpool to the Amex without Virgil van Dijk.Produced by Guy Clarke Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 13, 202347 min

How Brazil’s far right ‘kidnapped’ the most famous shirt in football

Mark Chapman is joined by The Athletic’s Jack Lang & Gustavo Ribeiro from The Brazilian Report to discuss how and why the national team football jersey has turned from a symbol of unity in Brazil to one that divides the nation down political lines.We reflect on a monumental start to 2023 in Brazil, as the nation prepared to welcome a new President, say goodbye to one of its most famous sons following the death of Pele and witnessed thousands of supporters of former right-wing president Jair Bolsonaro wearing Brazil shirts as they storm Congress, the Supreme Court and surround the presidential palace. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 12, 202331 min

Chelsea's identity crisis: Can Graham Potter hold on?

Mark Chapman is joined by The Athletic's Chelsea writers Simon Johnson and Liam Twomey to analyse the chaos at Chelsea as Graham Potter struggles to convince the fans four months on from replacing Thomas Tuchel.10 points off the top four pace, and after defeat to Man City in the FA Cup Third Round the panel consider the change in process at Stamford Bridge following the summer takeover of Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital.Plus, David Ornstein explains the deal set to take Atletico Madrid's Joao Felix to Chelsea on loan for the remainder of the season, before the rest of Chelsea's transfer needs are evaulated.Produced by Guy Clarke Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 11, 202340 min

How Ten Hag's Manchester United are evolving in the transfer market

Host Mark Chapman is joined by The Athletic's Adam Crafton and Manchester United correspondent Laurie Whitwell to get a read on the optimism surrounding Erik ten Hag's start at Old Trafford...Laurie explains how Ten Hag's influence and change behind-the-scenes in how the club look to recruit new players could usher in a far more successful age of transfer business than in recent seasons.Plus, how the manager's big decisions and authority have even led to talk of a genuine title race, ahead of Saturday's Manchester Derby.Produced by Adonis Pratsides Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 10, 202339 min

Barcelona & Real Madrid, hated rivals who need each other more than ever

Mark Chapman is joined by The Athletic's Dermot Corrigan, Pol Ballus & Guillermo Rai to discuss how Barcelona & Real Madrid, rivals on the pitch for decades, have become close off the field and need each other more than ever. Hear how both clubs continue to fight for salvation via the Super League and why Jude Belligham is far more likely to be a Real player than a Barca player next season. The Athletic's Laia Cervello Herrero details her debut article that looks at Ansu Fati tough couple of years at Camp Nou since inheriting Lionel Messi's number ten shirt. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 9, 202335 min

Weekend Preview: Cupsets, Contenders & FA Cup 'Giant Killings'

Ahead of the FA Cup Third Round getting underway Dan Bardell is joined by George Elek, bet365's Steve Freeth and The Athletic's Tim Spiers to look ahead to one of the landmark weekends on the football calendar.As the pressure mounts on Frank Lampard the panel assess his position ahead of a trip to Old Trafford, Antonio Conte is out to win Spurs their first silverware in 15 years meanwhile Newcastle hope to begin their journey to winning a first piece major domestic silverware since 1955.Plus Oxford United welcome Arsenal on Monday night - and where else could we see those eagerly anticipated Giant Killings?Produced by Guy Clarke Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 6, 202343 min

How Ronaldo negotiated £173million-a-year Saudi deal without agent Mendes

Ian Irving is joined by The Athletic's Laurie Whitwell & Nick Miller to discuss Cristiano Ronaldo's move to Saudi Arabian side Al Nassr, where he will earn a reported £173 million a year.Hear details of how that deal was done without the help of super agent Jorge Mendes and what awaits Ronaldo after a pretty strange six months - walkouts, tears & that interview.. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 5, 202335 min

Arsenal & Newcastle transfer priorities & will Lampard survive?

Ian Irving is joined by The Athletic's Patrick Boyland, can Frank Lampard hold onto his job after Everton were heavily beaten by Brighton and discuss the off-field challenges at Goodison Park.And what did Arsenal & Newcastle’s draw last night tell us about what both sides have to do off the pitch to get to that next level after a night of frustration for Mikel Arteta. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 4, 202334 min

How Liverpool's biggest strength became their weakness

Host Ian Irving is joined by The Athletic's Jay Harris and Tony Evans following Liverpool's 3-1 defeat to Brentford on Monday evening...The panel reflect on Liverpool's complicated season so far, whether Van Dijk is suffering from a World Cup hangover, how Cody Gakpo can help ease the burden on Darwin Nunez, as well as, why Klopp will need to find some more of that 'Monopoly money' to spend in the January transfer window & the secrets behind Brentford's record against the 'Big 6'.Plus, how uncertainty over the club's future off-the-pitch is affecting the team's confidence and if Klopp is starting to resemble Arsene Wenger towards the end of his time in charge of Arsenal?Hear more from Tony Evans on The Athletic's new Liverpool podcast 'Walk On' available wherever you get your podcasts.Produced by Adonis Pratsides Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 3, 202344 min

Top four battle hots up & is Joao Felix heading to the Premier League?

Ian Irving is joined by Carl Anka and Liam Twomey to react to a big weekend of Premier League football as the battle for a top four finish took centre stage.The panel analyse where things are going right at Manchester United, wrong at Chelsea and whether Antonio Conte is picking one battle too many at Tottenham.Plus David Ornstein looks ahead to the January Transfer Window including the latest on Joao Felix's future amid a number of Premier League clubs showing interest in the Atletico Madrid forward.Produced by Guy Clarke Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 2, 202339 min

Weekend Preview: Liverpool aim to outfox Leicester, Wolves welcome rejuvenated Man Utd & pressure increases on Lampard

Join Dan Bardell, George Elek, bet365's Steve Freeth and The Atheltic's Rich Amofa ahead of the final round of Premier League games for 2022.The panel look ahead to Liverpool welcoming Leicester City, fresh from agreeing a deal for Cody Gakpo from PSV Eindhoven.Manchester United's visit to Wolves is also on the agenda along with Everton, after defeat to Wolves increased pressure on Frank Lampard. Plus, there's Arsenal's visit to Roberto De Zerbi's Brighton & Hove Albion.Produced by Guy Clarke Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 29, 202245 min

Liverpool move quick for Gakpo & Arsene Wenger returns to Emirates

As the Premier League returns Dan Bardell is joined by The Athletic's Laurie Whitwell and Dan Barnes to discuss the Boxing Day action as well as analyse Liverpool's move for PSV Eindhoven winger Cody Gakpo.David Ornstein gives the details on Gakpo's proposed move to Anfield while there's reaction to Manchester United missing out on the Dutchman, with the 23-year-old known to have admirers at Old Trafford.As Arsene Wenger returned to Arsenal for the first time since leaving the club in 2018, the panel look back on Arsenal's 3-1 win over West Ham as well as Newcastle's impressive win over Leicester City before looking ahead to what moves could take place in the January Transfer Window.Produced by Guy Clarke Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 27, 202243 min

Weekend Preview: Premier League is back after World Cup but who's ready for the return?

Dan Bardell is joined by George Elek, bet365's Steve Freeth and The Athletic's Dan Barnes as the Premier League returns on Boxing Day following the break for the World Cup in Qatar, but who's best set to hit the ground running?Tottenham head to Brentford in the first of the action prior to Liverpool heading to Aston Villa, leaders Arsenal welcoming West Ham United and on Tuesday Manchester United, without Cristiano Ronaldo, take on Nottingham Forest.Plus, there's the latest on Chelsea's appointment of Christopher Vivell ahead of the January transfer window as well as champions Man City restarting against Leeds United. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 23, 202246 min

Messi's Argentina win the World Cup: A destiny fulfilled

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Argentina are World Champions again. Lionel Messi has emulated Maradona in 1986. Destiny fulfilled. Debate over?Host Adam Leventhal is joined by The Athletic's Matt Slater, Adam Crafton, David Ornstein and others to reflect on arguably the greatest World Cup final of all time. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 18, 202239 min