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The Athletic FC Podcast

The Athletic FC Podcast

1,352 episodes — Page 3 of 28

How long can Frank survive at Spurs?

Tottenham are out of both domestic cups and are struggling in the league.So how much longer does Thomas Frank have to turn the ship around?Host: Ayo AkinwolereGuests: Danny Kelly & Jack Pitt-BrookeExecutive Producer: Abi PatersonProducers: Mike Stavrou, Nick Thomson, Liam Warburton Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 14, 202637 min

Why have Real Madrid sacked Xabi Alonso?

Last week, David Ornstein told us “the managerial market is about to explode”.Cue Real Madrid sacking Xabi Alonso.So what next for him and Madrid? And what reverberations will Alonso's sacking have on the managerial market as a whole?Host: Ayo AkinwolereGuests: David Ornstein, James Horncastle, Dermot CorriganExecutive Producer: Abi PatersonProducers: Mike Stavrou, Nick Thomson, Liam Warburton Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 13, 202642 min

Why is there so much uncertainty at Palace?

Last season Crystal Palace were the kings of the cup beating Man City at Wembley.On Saturday they suffered the biggest of all giant killings losing to sixth tier Macclesfield.Following that defeat and with uncertainty over manager Oliver Glasner and captain Marc Guehi, is Palace's season at risk of being derailed?Aside from Palace, we're also joined by Macclesfield FC owner Rob Smethurst after their historic win over the Eagles.Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Matt Woosnam, Dom Fifield and Rob SmethurstExecutive Producer: Abi PatersonProducers: Guy Clarke and Paul Iliffe Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 12, 202634 min

What is the point of an interim manager?

On this week’s episode of The Athletic FC Tactics Podcast, the panel discuss the roles and responsibilities of caretaker and interim managers.Manchester United have been busy this week, with Ruben Amorim gone. So how do they go about replacing him — both in the short, and long term?And how does any club figure out its managerial appointments, from caretaker and interim bosses to those all-in project managers.Host: Michael BaileyWith: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam TharmeProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 11, 202637 min

Premier League Review: Arsenal miss chance to extend lead

After five league wins in a row Arsenal missed the chance to go 8 points clear of Manchester City and Aston Villa after drawing 0-0 with Liverpool at the Emirates on Thursday night.Cerys Jones, Reuben Pinder and Andy Jones join Matt Davies-Adams to reflect on the match, and talk the best and worst of the midweek Premier League action including Thomas Frank's cupset, a thriller at St James' Park, life after Ruben Amorim and whether new boss Liam Rosenior can fix Chelsea's discipline problem.Plus silly red cards, too little too late for Wolves and whether Nuno Espirito Santo can save West Ham from relegation.Host: Matt Davies-AdamsWith: Cerys Jones, Reuben Pindy, Andy JonesExecutive Producers: Abi Paterson & Adey MoorheadProducer: Jay Beale Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 9, 202644 min

Can Semenyo help City catch Arsenal?

Man City have dropped points three games in a row, this time to Brighton & Hove Albion.While Antoine Semenyo signed off in style at Bournemouth, scoring a last-minute winner.So, will signing Semenyo get City’s title challenge back on track?Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Sam Lee and Michael BrownExecutive Producer: Abi PatersonProducers: Guy Clarke and Paul Iliffe Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 8, 202636 min

How will Rosenior handle the Chelsea chaos?

Liam Rosenior has signed a six-and-a-half-year deal as Chelsea’s new head coach.His first game in charge is this weekend's FA Cup third-round clash away at Charlton.So what challenges await him at Stamford Bridge?And is he ready to make the step up?Host: Ayo AkinwolereGuests: Simon Johnson, Tom Williams, Matt SlaterExecutive Producer: Abi PatersonProducers: Mike Stavrou, Nick Thomson, Grayson Moody Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 7, 202645 min

Ask Ornstein: Man United's next manager + likely January transfers

The January transfer window is open but it’s the managers hogging the headlines so far.Enzo Maresca left Chelsea on New Year's Day and less than a week later, Ruben Amorim was relieved of his duties at Manchester United.The Athletic’s David Ornstein and Carl Anka join host Ayo Akinwolere to give the lowdown on what to expect from the managerial and transfer markets this month.Host: Ayo AkinwolereGuests: David Ornstein, Carl AnkaExecutive Producer: Abi PatersonProducers: Mike Stavrou, Nick Thomson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 6, 202644 min

Why Man United sacked Amorim

After 14 months in charge, Ruben Amorim has been sacked by Manchester United.How did it come to this - and where do INEOS turn next?Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: David Ornstein, Mark Critchley and Oliver KayExecutive Producer: Abi PatersonProducers: Guy Clarke and Paul Iliffe Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 5, 202639 min

Maresca leaves Chelsea ahead of Man City showdown

Chelsea head to Man City fresh from parting company with head coach Enzo Maresca.Matt Davies-Adams is joined by David Ornstein, Simon Johnson and Mark Critchley to react to Maresca's departure as well as the possibility of Strasbourg head coach Liam Rosenior arriving at Stamford Bridge.Rosenior joined The Athletic FC Podcast back in October, speaking about his coaching identity: https://pod.fo/e/344882Following events at Stamford Bridge, Beren Cross joins to discuss Leeds United v Manchester United on Sunday, look ahead to Liverpool's visit to Fulham, Bournemouth v Arsenal and the rest of the weekend's action.Host: Matt Davies-AdamsWith: David Ornstein, Simon Johnson, Mark Critchley and Beren CrossExecutive Producer: Abi PatersonProducer: Guy Clarke Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 2, 202642 min

Klopp, Gundogan & Grimsby's chuffed chairman: Our guests of the season so far

Today, we’re shining a light on those outside The Athletic - we’ve had plenty of guests on the podcast this season and these are the highlights. You’ll hear from a former England goalkeeper, a Man City legend, and about a manager who has everyone’s attention!Host: Ayo AkinwolereProducer: Nick ThomsonExecutive Producer: Abi Paterson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 31, 202537 min

The Preview: Arsenal vs Aston Villa

Welcome to The Preview on The Athletic FC, where this week our main focus is Arsenal vs Aston Villa.After their impressive victory at Stamford Bridge can Unai Emery take his side level on points with his former employers or will Mikel Arteta get revenge just three weeks after Arsenal's 2-1 defeat at Villa Park.Carl Anka and Stu James join Matt Davies-Adams to reflect on the festive action so far and look ahead to Tuesday's clash before turning their attention to the fixtures elsewhere including Sunderland vs Manchester City, Chelsea vs Bournemouth, and Brentford vs Spurs.Host: Matt Davies-AdamsWith: Carl Anka & Stu JamesExecutive Producers: Abi Paterson & Adey MoorheadProducer: Jay Beale Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 29, 202553 min

The Athletic meets... Jesse Marsch

Today we bring you an exclusive interview with Canada head coach, Jesse Marsch. Speaking to writers from The Athletic in New York, including Adam Crafton and David Ornstein, Marsch sets out his ambitions for Canada, why getting out of the group isn’t enough, and how he’s been building the team with the 2026 World Cup firmly in mind.Marsch reflects on his time in the Premier League, the realities of modern football, and the short-term thinking that defines the game. He also shares his thoughts on Erling Haaland, who he managed, and why he believes the striker is the best in the world.With: Adam Crafton, David Ornstein, Laura Williamson, Paul Tenorio and Josh KlokeProducer: Paul IliffeExec Producer: Adey Moorhead Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 28, 202544 min

The biggest moments of the 2025/26 season so far

We’re nearly halfway through the season and already it’s been one to remember. From Liverpool’s record-breaking transfer window, Forest’s own-personal managerial merry go round and the departure of Daniel Levy.Join us on a trip down memory lane.Host: Ayo AkinwolereProducer: Nick ThomsonExecutive Producer: Abi Paterson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 24, 202544 min

How Morgan Rogers is driving Villa's unlikely title charge

The Premier League presented a Christmas cracker of a weekend of football.From Morgan Rogers’ magic in Aston Villa’s win over Manchester United, to Spurs’ red cards in their defeat to Liverpool.And… after Wolves lost once again - are they the worst Premier League team ever?Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic’s Adam Crafton and Jack Pitt-Brooke to dissect all of the action.Host: Ayo AkinwolereGuests: Adam Crafton, Jack Pitt-BrookeExecutive Producer: Abi PatersonProducers: Mike Stavrou, Paul Iliffe Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 22, 202535 min

Are Everton ready to kick on under their US owners?

A year ago on Friday, Everton's takeover was complete.Since then the club has been rejuvenated. So how far can they go under the David Moyes and The Friedkin Group?Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Patrick Boyland, Greg O'Keeffe and Leon OsmanExecutive Producer: Abi PatersonProducers: Guy Clarke and Paul Iliffe Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 20, 202541 min

The Preview: Spurs vs Liverpool

Welcome to The Preview on The Athletic FC, where this week our main focus is Tottenham Hotspur vs Liverpool.Cerys Jones and Reuben Pinder join Matt Davies-Adams to look ahead to Saturday's clash before turning their attention to the fixtures elsewhere including Aston Villa vs Manchester United, Newcastle vs Chelsea and Arsenal vs Everton.Host: Matt Davies-AdamsWith: Cerys Jones & Reuben PinderExecutive Producers: Abi Paterson & Adey MoorheadProducer: Jay Beale Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 19, 202539 min

Ornstein exclusive: Maresca among Man City options if Guardiola leaves

David Ornstein reports that Chelsea's Enzo Maresca is high on the list to replace Pep Guardiola with the anticipation of this being his last season at Manchester City.It comes less than a week after Maresca's outburst following Chelsea's recent home win over Everton.If Guardiola were to leave it would bring to an end a trophy-laden 10 years in charge at the Etihad.Host: Adam LeventhalWith: David Ornstein, Oliver Kay, Jack Pitt-Brooke and Simon JohnsonExecutive Producer: Abi PatersonProducer: Guy Clarke Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 18, 202532 min

AFCON 2025: 'Fired up' Salah, favourites and surprise packages

Excitement is building for the start of Africa Cup of Nations this weekend.The tournament kicks off this Sunday, 21st December and runs until the final on Sunday, 18th January.So will hosts and favourites Morocco deliver? Can reigning champions Ivory Coast defend their crown? Will 'fired up' Salah give Egypt the edge? And who are the key players to keep an eye on?Ayo Akinwolere is joined by Jay Harris and Simon Hughes to tell you everything you need to know ahead of AFCON 2025.Plus, former Ghana manager Chris Hughton drops in to give the lowdown on what it’s actually like to manage at AFCON.Host: Ayo AkinwolereGuests: Jay Harris, Simon Hughes, Chris HughtonExecutive Producer: Abi PatersonProducers: Mike Stavrou, Paul Illife Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 17, 202542 min

Man United’s wild night and why Bruno feels ‘hurt’

Another week of chaos at Manchester United, what’s new?Bournemouth came from behind three times to draw 4-4 with Ruben Amorim’s side in the game of the season so far at Old Trafford.Carl Anka and Adam Crafton join Ayo Akinwolere to chat about Monday night’s dramatic match.The panel also tackle a ‘hurt’ Bruno Fernandes’ comments, the captain claimed the club 'wanted me to go' in the summer.Plus, the Athletic’s Tottenham correspondent Jack Pitt-Brooke drops in to chat about the security of Thomas Frank’s position at the club after a 3-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest on the weekend.Host: Ayo AkinwolereGuests: Carl Anka, Adam Crafton,Jack Pitt-BrookeExecutive Producer: Abi PatersonProducers: Mike Stavrou, Nick Thomson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 16, 202547 min

What next for Salah and Liverpool?

Mohamed Salah shone brightly, coming off the bench for Liverpool in their 2-0 win over Brighton, grabbing an assist along the way.Now he heads off to AFCON with Egypt.So will Salah be back in favour at Anfield when - and if - he returns?Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: James Pearce, David Ornstein and Ahmed WalidExecutive Producer: Abi PatersonProducers: Guy Clarke and Paul Iliffe Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 15, 202536 min

Are FIFA exploiting fans with World Cup ticket prices?

Welcome to The Insiders, The Athletic FC’s new show digging into the off-pitch forces shaping the 2026 World Cup. Matt Slater and Adam Crafton unpack a World Cup draw that went from the surreal to the political, including surprise performances, a very prominent Gianni Infantino, and the growing influence of Donald Trump and his inner circle on football’s biggest event.Then, why this is set to be the most expensive World Cup ever. From the eye-watering cost of tickets and who can actually afford to go, to predictions about what happens next as prices rise and fans are squeezed out.Hosts: Matt Slater & Adam CraftonExecutive Producer: Adey Moorhead & Abi PatersonProducers: Guy Clarke & Paul Iliffe Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 13, 202542 min

The Preview: Sunderland vs Newcastle

Welcome to The Preview on The Athletic FC, where this week our main focus is Sunderland vs Newcastle.After nine years, the Tyne-Wear derby returns to the Premier League, with the two sides separated by just one point.Mark Critchley and Andy Jones join Matt Davies-Adams to look ahead to Sunday’s clash before turning their attention to the fixtures elsewhere including Chelsea vs Everton, Crystal Palace vs Manchester City, and Liverpool vs Brighton, where the Mohammed Salah situation rumbles on.Host: Matt Davies-AdamsWith: Mark Critchley & Andy JonesExecutive Producer: Abi PatersonProducers: Jay Beale & Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 12, 202552 min

Is Alonso still facing Real Madrid sack?

Xabi Alonso’s Real Madrid reign is in the balance.They’ve won just two of their last eight - and player power is threatening to undermine himSo, is he on his way out?Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Dermot Corrigan, Tomas Hill Lopez-Menchero and Seb Stafford-BloorExecutive Producer: Abi PatersonProducers: Guy Clarke and Paul Iliffe Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 11, 202536 min

Is ‘sacking season’ still a thing?

December is traditionally sacking season. But things feel a little different this season.So have clubs become more patient? And why?Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic’s Jack Pitt-Brooke and Mark Critchley. James Horncastle also drops in to chat Como’s Cesc Fabregas - one of football’s most exciting up and coming coaches.Host: Ayo AkinwolereGuests: Jack Pitt-Brooke, Mark Critchley. James HorncastleExecutive Producer: Abi PatersonProducers: Mike Stavrou, Nick Thomson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 10, 202535 min

Why Villa can (and can't) challenge for the title

Aston Villa failed to win any of their first five league games this season, but have since won nine of the next 10.They’re now third in the table. So can they actually compete with Arsenal, Manchester City and Chelsea for the title this season?Host: Ayo AkinwolereGuests: Jacob Tanswell, Liam TharmeExecutive Producer: Abi PatersonProducers: Mike Stavrou, Nick Thomson, Liam Warburton Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 9, 202531 min

Will Salah play for Liverpool again?

On Saturday night Mohamed Salah spoke telling reporters the club has thrown him under the bus.Liverpool have responded by dropping him for Tuesday night's Champions League trip to face Inter Milan.So, with his patchy form combined with these comments will the Egyptian King play for Liverpool again?Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Simon Hughes, Adam Crafton and Oliver KayExecutive Producer: Abi PatersonProducers: Guy Clarke and Paul Iliffe Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 8, 202535 min

Who are the Premier League's most versatile players?

On this week’s episode of The Athletic FC Tactics Podcast, the team discuss some of the high profile players to have switched positions in the Premier League recently.Also - what makes players flexible? And who excels in multiple roles?Host: Michael BaileyGuests: Liam Tharme, Michael Cox, Cerys JonesProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 7, 202536 min

The Preview: Aston Villa v Arsenal

Welcome to The Preview on The Athletic FC, where this week we're looking ahead to the biggest games of MW15.Tim Spiers and Cerys Jones join Matt Davies-Adams to reflect on the midweek action and preview Wolves vs Manchester United, Bournemouth vs Chelsea, Leeds United vs Liverpool, and Sunderland vs Manchester City.Plus, the leagues most in form team meet the league leaders as Aston Villa host Arsenal and Thomas Frank faces his old side as Spurs take on Brentford.Host: Matt Davies-AdamsWith: Tim Spiers & Cerys JonesExecutive Producers: Abi Paterson & Adey MoorheadProducer: Jay Beale Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 5, 202544 min

Is Declan Rice the Premier League's best midfielder?

Arsenal continue to set the pace in the Premier League, but there was a minor scare at the Emirates as Declan Rice was forced off against Brentford.So, how important is he for Arsenal?Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Art De Roche and Carl AnkaExecutive Producer: Abi PatersonProducers: Guy Clarke and Paul Iliffe Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 4, 202536 min

Are Spurs fans losing faith in Frank?

Tuesday night saw goals galore in the Premier League.Nine at Craven Cottage as Manchester City edged a 5-4 win over Fulham - including Erling Haaland’s 100th.And at St James’ Park - there was a last minute equaliser from Cristian Romero, earning Spurs a point.So why are Newcastle dropping points so often, and why can’t Spurs create chances?Host: Ayo AkinwolereGuests: Chris Waugh, Charlie Eccleshare, Dan Kilpatrick, Jordan CampbellExecutive Producer: Abi PatersonProducers: Mike Stavrou, Nick Thomson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 3, 202544 min

Man United's midfield wishlist for 2026

It’s now less than a month until the January transfer window opens.Manchester United are in pursuit of a new midfielder, with Elliot Anderson, Adam Wharton and Carlos Baleba among the names being considered.So will they finally fix their midfield in 2026?Host: Ayo AkinwolereGuests: Mark Critchley, Laurie WhitwellExecutive Producer: Abi PatersonProducers: Mike Stavrou, Nick Thomson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 2, 202540 min

Will Chelsea's lack of discipline cost them?

Chelsea took a point against Arsenal despite, yet again, being down to ten men. So, will their ill-discipline stop them being title contenders?Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Adam Crafton and Jack Pitt-BrookeExecutive Producer: Abi PatersonProducers: Guy Clarke and Paul Iliffe Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 1, 202535 min

The Preview: Chelsea vs Arsenal

Welcome to The Preview on The Athletic FC, where this week our main focus is Chelsea vs Arsenal. Which side will make the bigger statement with a win? Does Enzo Maresca have to start Estevao? Who would the panel have in their side out of Rice and Caicedo? Mark Critchley and Cerys Jones join Matt Davies-Adams to look ahead to Sunday's clash before turning their attention to the fixtures elsewhere including Crystal Palace vs Manchester United, Spurs vs Fulham, and West Ham vs Liverpool. Host: Matt Davies-AdamsWith: Mark Critchley & Cerys JonesExecutive Producer: Abi PatersonProducer: Jay Beale Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 28, 202536 min

Why Bayern are still Arsenal's main European rivals

In the battle of two of Europe’s heavyweights it was Arsenal who came out on top.So, how much damage does a first defeat of the season do to Vincent Kompany’s Bayern?Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Seb Stafford-Bloor and Kev HatchardExecutive Producer: Abi PatersonProducers: Guy Clarke and Paul Iliffe Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 27, 202543 min

Vinicius vs Xabi Alonso: what's going on?

Real Madrid are top of La Liga and have won three from four in the Champions League, but there’s always drama around the corner at the Bernabeu.Vinicius Junior has told the club he doesn’t want to renew his contract while his relationship with head coach Xabi Alonso remains strained.So… who will end up winning this battle: star player or head coach?Host: Ayo AkinwolereGuests: Mario Cortegana, Dermot Corrigan, Jack LangExecutive Producer: Abi PatersonProducers: Mike Stavrou, Nick Thomson, Liam Warburton Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 26, 202536 min

Is Slot under pressure at Liverpool?

After six defeats in their last seven Premier League matches, reigning champions Liverpool sit 12th in the league.Supporters streamed out of Anfield when Nottingham Forest’s third goal went in on Saturday.So is Arne Slot’s position at risk?Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Jon Mackenzie and Oli KayExecutive Producer: Abi PatersonProducers: Mike Stavrou, Liam Warburton, Nick Thomson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 25, 202536 min

Has Arsenal’s recruitment set them apart?

Arsenal are six points clear at the top of the Premier League with Eberechi Eze playing a starring role.So, how important has their summer business been?Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Adam Crafton and James McNicholasExecutive Producer: Abi PatersonProducers: Guy Clarke and Paul Iliffe Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 24, 202534 min

The Preview: Arsenal vs Spurs

Welcome to The Preview on The Athletic FC, where this week our main focus is Arsenal vs Spurs. Which side is under more pressure to win? Who replaces Gabriel? Where can Spurs hurt Arsenal? Reuben Pinder and Alexander Barker join Matt Davies-Adams to look ahead to Sunday's clash before turning their attention to the fixtures elsewhere including Newcastle vs Manchester City, Liverpool vs Nottingham Forest, and Manchester United vs Everton. Host: Matt Davies-AdamsWith: Reuben Pinder & Alexander BarkerExecutive Producer: Abi PatersonProducer: Jay Beale Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 21, 202539 min

Ornstein transfer latest: Is Semenyo on the move?

Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo has a £65m release clause - as revealed by The Athletic's David Ornstein. He could be on the move in January. So who wants him? And where will he go?Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: David Ornstein, Carl Anka, Dan Kilpatrick and Dean HoldenExecutive Producer: Abi PatersonProducers: Guy Clarke and Paul Iliffe Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 20, 202536 min

World Cup 2026: Who has qualified + are the hosts ready?

The 2026 World Cup is almost set. We now know 42 out of the 48 teams going to next year’s tournament.With the draw just around the corner, we're looking at who has qualified already, who is yet to qualify, and what a 48-team World Cup will look like.Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Jack Pitt-Brooke, Felipe Cardenas, Adam CraftonExecutive Producer: Abi PatersonProducers: Mike Stavrou, Liam Warburton, Nick Thomson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 19, 202546 min

Meet the man expected to fix English football

Today we bring you an audio exclusive with David Kogan, Chair of the Independent Football Regulator.A role that makes him one of the most powerful people in English football.So what powers will he actually have, and what difference will they make to fans of clubs in the Premier League and beyond?Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Matt Slater and David KoganExecutive Producers: Adey Moorhead and Abi PatersonProducers: Guy Clarke, Jay Beale and Paul Iliffe Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 18, 202543 min

The future of watching football

A week ago we released a documentary about illegal streaming. It’s fair to say, you’ve had a lot to say about it.So, today we’re going to answer your questions, and look to the future of watching football.Host: Adam LeventhalWith: Adam Crafton and Matt SlaterExecutive Producer: Abi PatersonProducer: Guy Clarke Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 17, 202542 min

Premier League review: The biggest surprises so far

We’re eleven games into the 2025/26 Premier League season. Arsenal are top, Man City are clinging to their coat tails, Sunderland are in the Champions League places and just four points separate 2nd from 9th. Meanwhile Newcastle are languishing in 14th, Fulham’s top scorer is own goals, West Ham and Nottingham Forest are in the relegation zone and Wolves sit rock bottom, still yet to win a game. So, is this the most unpredictable the Premier League has been in recent years?Host: Matt Davies-AdamsWith: Tim Spiers & Megan FeringaExecutive Producer: Abi PatersonProducer: Jay Beale Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 14, 202539 min

Cesc Fabregas, data, and Disney: Inside Como

Como 1907 are one of the most intriguing clubs in modern football. They have gone from Serie D to Serie A in just six years, backed by billionaire owners they have ambitious plans to grow the Como brand and emulate a Disney model.In this show we're talking to Mirwan Suwarso, President of Como 1907 about how the club rose to the top and their plans to sustain their success. You'll hear all about manager Cesc Fabregas's involvement in succession planning, their data-led recruitment strategy, and insight into plans for their match abroad against AC Milan.We also talk fashion, Suwarso's surprising LinkedIn account, and Como's gorgeous lakeside stadium.Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Matt Slater and Mirwan SuwarsoProducer: Mike Stavrou and Nick ThomsonExec Producers: Adey Moorhead and Abi Paterson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 13, 202538 min

Ornstein meets Adam Wharton: “I was born in Blackburn not Barcelona”

Today we're bringing you an exclusive interview for The Athletic, Crystal Palace and England midfielder Adam Wharton in conversation with David Ornstein.Ahead of next summer's World Cup, they get into his England chances, being overly self critical, the constant transfer speculation that surrounds him and much more... Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: David Ornstein & Adam WhartonExecutive Producers: Abi Paterson & Adey MoorheadProducer: Jay Beale Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 12, 202533 min

One year of Amorim: The good, the bad and "the worst Man United team in history"

Ruben Amorim’s first year at Manchester United has been box office.From the lows of the Europa League final defeat to the highs of that historic win at Anfield.So how do we assess his time at Old Trafford - and what next for the project?Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Mark Critchley, Oli Kay and Charlotte HarpurExecutive Producer: Abi PatersonProducers: Mike Stavrou and Nick Thomson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 11, 202543 min

Can Man City challenge Arsenal for the title?

Pep Guardiola’s 1,000th game in management ended with Liverpool thrashed and Man City just four points off Arsenal.Erling Haaland was among the goals, but Jeremy Doku got all the attention at the Etihad.Can they now sustain a serious challenge for the title?Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Adam Crafton and Jack Pitt-BrookeExecutive Producer: Abi PatersonProducer: Paul Iliffe Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 10, 202528 min

The Underground World of Illegal Streaming

Does the rise of illegal streaming pose an existential threat to football?To answer that question, Adam Leventhal has spent the last six months looking into the culture, crime and crisis associated with pirating live football matches.In this special episode of The Athletic FC Podcast you'll hear undercover reporting and behind the scenes access to police investigations, including how the world's largest illegal sports streaming platform was taken down.We get the takes of match-going fans, and ask if 'Premflix' is the future of Premier League broadcasting?If you're an Athletic subscriber you can have your say here.And if you're not yet a subscriber, join here and have your say.Please note that the documentary has content some listeners may find upsetting.Host: Adam LeventhalMixing: Jay BealeProducer: Abi PatersonFeaturing footage from Amazon, Sky Sports, tallkSPORT, Leaders.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 9, 20251h 1m

The Preview: Man City vs Liverpool

Welcome to The Preview on The Athletic FC, where this week our main focus is Manchester City vs Liverpool.Where do you play Wirtz? How do you stop Haaland? And will either of them reel in Arsenal?Andy Jones and Jordan Campbell join Matt Davies-Adams to look ahead to Sunday's clash before turning their attention to the fixtures elsewhere including Sunderland vs Arsenal, Spurs vs Manchester United and Crystal Palace vs Brighton.Host: Matt Davies-AdamsWith: Andy Jones & Jordan CampbellExecutive Producer: Abi PatersonProducer: Jay Beale Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 7, 202545 min