The Athletic FC Podcast

This week — The Athletic FC Tactics podcast dive into the world of weather. How do the elements impact what happens on the pitch? From the rainy, cold and windy nights at Stoke.To the scorching heat of the 1994 World Cup in the U.S.We’ll discuss it all.Host: Michael BaileyWith: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Conor O'NeillProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to The Preview on The Athletic FC, where this week our main focus is Liverpool vs Manchester City.Mark Carey & Jay Harris join Matt Davies-Adams to preview Sunday’s clash, with City looking to keep the pressure on at the top, as Arsenal have the chance to go 9-points clear when they host Sunderland the day before.Elsewhere around the league, Spurs head Old Trafford, Brighton face Crystal Palace in the feisty M23 derby, and down the bottom there's a relegation 6-pointer as Leeds take on Forest.Host: Matt Davies-AdamsWith: Mark Carey & Jay HarrisExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Jay Beale & John Rogers Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

2026 hasn’t started well for Crystal Palace. Their captain sold, 12 games without a win and sliding down the table.So, how much danger are Palace in?Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Matt Woosnam and Dom FifieldExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducers: Guy Clarke and Paul Iliffe Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Arsenal are through to the Carabao Cup final after a 4-2 win on aggregate over Chelsea.So how significant would a first trophy in six years be for Mikel Arteta and his side?Host: Ayo AkinwolereGuests: James McNicholas, JPBExecutive Producers: Adey Moorhead, Guy ClarkeProducers: Mike Stavrou, Nick Thomson, Liam Warburton Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The January transfer window has been relatively quiet by Premier League standards - with a combined spend of £397m between all 20 clubs.But does that mean we’re in for a big summer in both the transfer and managerial markets?Host: Ayo AkinwolereGuests: David Ornstein, Tim Spiers, Jay HarrisExecutive Producers: Adey Moorhead, Guy ClarkeProducers: Mike Stavrou, Nick Thomson, Liam Warburton Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Chelsea turned half-time boos to into full-time cheers, coming from behind to beat West Ham 3-2 at Stamford Bridge on Saturday.Liam Rosenior said post-match he hopes his appointment as Chelsea boss will be ‘the best decision' the club has made.With six wins from seven, could he be right?Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Liam Twomey and Adam CraftonExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducers: Guy Clarke and Paul Iliffe Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Exotic clauses, tapping up and how much agents really get paid. Your questions answered is the transfer special that you control.Adam Leventhal heads to Malaga and beyond to pose your enquiries to those operating in the transfer market right now.Contributions and insight comes from 15 representatives from multiple Premier League, European and global clubs — including takes from the U.S., Brazil, Morocco, Japan and Australia — and financial and legal experts with a deep knowledge of the transfer business.Scouts, sporting directors, agents and former players telling you what it's really like working in the transfer business.Writer & Presenter: Adam LeventhalProducer: Jay Beale Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to The Preview on The Athletic FC, where this week our main focus is Tottenham Hotspur vs Manchester City.Stu James & Tim Spiers join Matt Davies-Adams to look ahead to Sunday’s clash before turning their attention to the big fixtures elsewhere including Leeds vs Arsenal and Liverpool vs Newcastle.Plus, a relegation fight is well and truly on as West Ham travel to Chelsea and Nottingham Forest host Crystal Palace amidst the possibility of Jean-Philippe Mateta leaving Selhurst for the City Ground. Host: Matt Davies-AdamsWith: Stu James & Tim SpiersExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Jay Beale Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Champions League league phase is over - after a pulsating final night.Five of the top eight sides are Premier League teams.But what else did we learn from the league phase?We’re asking you to fill out a quick survey about you and your podcast habits by going to theathletic.com/survey26. Three lucky entries will win $/£100 worth of Amazon vouchers too. So whether you’re a long-time listener or a new one, we want your feedback. Go to: theathletic.com/survey26Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Jack Lang and Seb Stafford-BloorExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducers: Guy Clarke and Paul Iliffe Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Last summer was the year of the big-money strikers - from Isak to Gyokeres to Sesko to Woltemade and more!So is it fair to say they’ve struggled to live up to expectations?And if so... why?We’re asking you to fill out a quick survey about you and your podcast habits by going to theathletic.com/survey26. Three lucky entries will win $/£100 worth of Amazon vouchers too. So whether you’re a long-time listener or a new one, we want your feedback. Go to: theathletic.com/survey26Host: Ayo AkinwolereGuests: Oli Kay, Mark Carey, Carl AnkaExecutive Producer: Adey Moorhead, Guy ClarkeProducers: Mike Stavrou, Nick Thomson, Liam Warburton Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Liverpool spent £450m last summer yet the squad still needs major surgery, after their unconvincing 13-game unbeaten run was ended at Bournemouth on Saturday.So how did they get their recruitment so wrong and can Arne Slot turn their fortunes around?We’re asking you to fill out a quick survey about you and your podcast habits by going to theathletic.com/survey26. Three lucky entries will win $/£100 worth of Amazon vouchers too. So whether you’re a long-time listener or a new one, we want your feedback. Go to: theathletic.com/survey26Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: David Ornstein, Tim Spiers and James PearceExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducers: Mike Stavrou and Nick Thomson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Arsenal’s lead at the top of the Premier League is now down to four points, after losing 3-2 at home to Manchester United.Mikel Arteta's side took a first half lead before going on to lose in front of their home fans for the first time this season.So, is the pressure getting to Arsenal?Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Art De Roche and Adam CraftonExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducers: Guy Clarke and Paul IliffeWe’re asking you to fill out a quick survey about you and your podcast habits by going to theathletic.com/survey26. Three lucky entries will win $/£100 worth of Amazon vouchers too. So whether you’re a long-time listener or a new one, we want your feedback. Go to: theathletic.com/survey26 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, The Athletic FC Tactics podcast dive into the world of home and away - discussing the tactical differences between performing in front of your own fans, and taking to the road.What are the key elements to playing on home turf, and how does it impact what happens on the pitch?Host: Michael BaileyWith: Michael Cox, Mark Carey and Liam TharmeProducer: Mike StavrouWe’re asking you to fill out a quick survey about you and your podcast habits by going to theathletic.com/survey26. Three lucky entries will win $/£100 worth of Amazon vouchers too. So whether you’re a long-time listener or a new one, we want your feedback. Go to: theathletic.com/survey26 Research article: Revising home advantage in sport – home advantage mediation (HAM) model Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to The Preview on The Athletic FC, where this week our main focus is the Arsenal vs Manchester United.Both sides will be going into this one full of confidence, Michael Carrick’s return to Old Trafford got off to the perfect start beating Manchester City, while Arsenal made it 7 wins from 7 games in the Champions League midweek, overpowering Inter at San Siro.Stu James & Art de Roché join Matt Davies-Adams to look ahead to Sunday’s clash before turning their attention to the fixtures elsewhere including Manchester City vs Wolves, Newcastle vs Aston Villa and Crystal Palace vs Chelsea.Host: Matt Davies-AdamsWith: Stu James & Art de RochéExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Jay Beale Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Marcus Rashford has been enjoying his football in Spain.Scoring goals and creating goals - as he did in Champions League on Wednesday night.So will Rashford be able to stay at Barcelona permanently?We’re asking you to fill out a quick survey about you and your podcast habits by going to theathletic.com/survey26. Three lucky entries will win $/£100 worth of Amazon vouchers too. So whether you’re a long-time listener or a new one, we want your feedback. Go to: theathletic.com/survey26Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Pol Ballus and Andy MittenExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducers: Guy Clarke and Paul Iliffe Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On Saturday Real Madrid players and president Florentino Perez were booed by the fans.Last night they put on a show in the Champions League that seemed to turn the stadium in their favour - but is Perez still under fire?We’re asking you to fill out a quick survey about you and your podcast habits by going to theathletic.com/survey26. Three lucky entries will win $/£100 worth of Amazon vouchers too. So whether you’re a long-time listener or a new one, we want your feedback. Go to: theathletic.com/survey26Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Guillermo Rai and Dermot CorriganExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducers: Mike Stavrou and Nick Thomson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We’re already halfway through the January transfer window.So what moves should we be looking out for in the final weeks of the window?Host: Ayo AkinwolereGuests: David Ornstein, Jack Pitt-BrookeExecutive Producer: Adey Moorhead, Guy ClarkeProducers: Mike Stavrou, Nick Thomson, Liam Warburton Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Michael Carrick era at Old Trafford started with a win.Carrick himself labelling it “a dream start” after beating Manchester City 2-0 in the Manchester derby.So, are Manchester United back already?!Plus we hear what difference Marc Guehi's signing could have for Man City as well as reflecting on an incredible night in Rabat as Senegal beat Morocco in an drama-filled AFCON Final.Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Carl Anka and Oli KayFeaturing: Sam LeeExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducers: Guy Clarke and Paul Iliffe Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to The Preview on The Athletic FC, where this week our main focus is the Manchester derby. Michael Carrick will take charge of his first game back at Manchester United as interim manager while the Manchester City will look to get back to winning ways in the Premier League after three straight draws.Carl Anka and Alex Barker join Matt Davies-Adams to look ahead to Saturday's clash before turning their attention to the fixtures elsewhere including Nottingham Forest vs Arsenal, Chelsea vs Brentford and Spurs vs West Ham.Host: Matt Davies-AdamsWith: Carl Anka & Alex BarkerFeaturing: Sam LeeExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Jay Beale Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The AFCON 2025 final line-up is set: 2021 winners Senegal v hosts MoroccoBut what does defeat in the last four mean for both Nigeria and Mohamed Salah’s Egypt?Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Jay Harris and Simon HughesExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducers: Guy Clarke and Paul Iliffe Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.