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The Athletic FC Podcast

The Athletic FC Podcast

1,352 episodes — Page 9 of 28

Who are the billionaires that own Premier League clubs?

This week across The Athletic we’re focusing on the people that own the 20 clubs that make up the Premier League.So who are they? How much does it cost? and what do they get in return?Ayo Akinwolere is joined by Matt Slater and Adam Crafton is assess and debate how the nature of Premier League ownership has changed since the league's inception.Phil Buckingham also drops in to discuss his article on how much each ownership group has invested since taking control of their respective clubs as well as the impact the likes of Abu Dhabi's wealth has had at Manchester City.Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Matt Slater, Adam Crafton and Phil BuckinghamExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Guy Clarke Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 18, 202442 min

Is the Premier League stronger than ever?

We’re eleven games into the season, today we’ll be assessing the table – and asking the question – is the quality of the Premier League the best it’s ever been? Host: Adam LeventhalWith: Tim Spiers, Nick MillerExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 15, 202434 min

Is Kane right about England dropouts?

England have had nine players drop out of their squad ahead of their matches against Greece and the Republic of Ireland.Captain Harry Kane is not impressed speaking out about the importance of playing for the national team.So is Kane right? Outside of major tournaments is international football respected?Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Phil Hay, Jack Pitt-Brooke, Chris Waugh and Nick MillerExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Guy Clarke Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 14, 202431 min

Are Roma Europe's most chaotic club?

Roma have sacked a second manager in less than two months and are now in talks to bring former coach Claudio Ranieri out of retirement.So… can Ranieri stabilise the turbulent Italian club?And what is the latest on Roma’s owners, The Friedkin Group, and their proposed takeover of Everton?Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: James Horncastle and Paddy Boyland Executive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 13, 202430 min

Is Project Messi working in the U.S.?

Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami crashed out of the MLS Cup in the first round of the playoffs.So what now for Messi and Miami after being granted a place in the Club World Cup?Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Felipe Cardenas and Phil HayExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 12, 202432 min

Is Angeball working at Tottenham?

After another defeat Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou was quick to accept responsibility following their 2-1 home loss to Ipswich Town.So why are the Spurs so inconsistent and what can they do to fix it? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Charlie Eccleshare and Phil Hay to analyse Spurs' start to the season with Jon Mackenzie also dropping in to analyse their underlying numbers in comparison to last season's lightning-fast start.Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Phil Hay, Charlie Eccleshare and Jon MackenzieExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Guy Clarke Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 11, 202433 min

The Preview - Liverpool vs Aston Villa

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

Nov 8, 202438 min

Is Viktor Gyokeres ready for the Premier League?

As demonstrated in the Champions League this week Viktor Gyokeres is European football's in-form striker.The Sporting striker's hat-trick against Man City puts him on 23 goals in all competitions already this season.So, after failing to break through at Brighton, could Gyokeres finally be ready for the Premier League?Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Liam Tharme and Mark Carey to look at the numbers behind Gyokeres incredible season while David Novo, from Portuguese publication Record, gives the perspective from Portugal.Plus, former Coventry City assistant manager Adi Viveash also shares his account of working with the Swedish striker closely and helping to develop his game prior to his move to Sporting.Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Liam Tharme, Mark Carey, David Novo and Adi ViveashExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Guy Clarke Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 7, 202438 min

Edu's Arsenal exit

Edu has resigned as Arsenal’s Sporting Director and is expected to join Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis’ portfolio of clubs.So why has Edu left the Gunners at a critical point of their project under Mikel Arteta?Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: David Ornstein and Art de RochéExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 6, 202433 min

Has Slot made Liverpool forget Alonso?

While their rivals faltered around them on the weekend, Arne Slot’s machine increased their lead at the top of the Premier League.As Xabi Alonso, who was the early favourite to replace Jurgen Klopp, arrives at Anfield in the Champions League… how different might life have looked for both Liverpool and Bayer Leverkusen?Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: James Pearce and Seb Stafford-BloorExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 5, 202434 min

How significant is Man City’s defeat?

So Man City suffered defeat in the Premier League for the first time this season away at Bournemouth on Saturday.Added to that, ahead of the game manager Pep Guardiola outlined their mounting injury list, so how much trouble are City in - and could the demands of the season lead to a more open title race?Ayo Akinwolere is joined by Oli Kay and The Athletic FC newsletter’s lead writer Phil Hay to analyse the champions start to the season. Man City writer Sam Lee explains the context of their injury list. As well as that senior data analyst Mark Carey drops in to provide context to the state of the table after 10 games and NBA Daily host Dave DuFour has his say on Guardiola drawing comparisons to NBA over fixture congestion.Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Oli Kay, Phil Hay and Mark CareyExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Guy Clarke Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 4, 202437 min

The Preview - Man United vs Chelsea

Welcome to The Preview on The Athletic FC, where each week we go deep on the biggest game of the weekend.This week — we’re focusing on Manchester United against Chelsea.In the first Premier League game since Erik ten Hag's sacking, interim boss Ruud van Nistelrooy will be looking to get his side back on track.But with the chance to go nine points clear of United, can Enzo Maresca make a statement in Chelsea's bid for Champions League football?Plus, we look at the fixtures elsewhere with drop ins from the club podcasts across our network.Host: Adam LeventhalWith: Tim Spiers, Jon MackenzieExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Jay Beale Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 1, 202441 min

Inside Amorim's move to Man United

Manchester United have reached an agreement to make Ruben Amorim their head coach.So how did the deal come about and is Amorim more suited to succeed at Man United than Erik ten Hag? Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Laurie Whitwell, David Novo, Mark Critchley, Andy Mitten Executive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Nick Thomson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 31, 202444 min

Real Madrid's Ballon d'Or boycott

Real Madrid were expecting Vinicius Junior to win the Ballon d’Or on Monday night, but it didn’t go their way.The decision prompted Madrid to cancel their trip to Paris and effectively boycott the event.So.. have Real overreacted? And are they facing bigger problems on the pitch?Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Dermot Corrigan and Phil HayExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 30, 202432 min

Are Chelsea lacking leaders?

Things are looking good for Chelsea in the Premier League. Despite this, their manager Enzo Maresca has urged captain Reece James to show more leadership.So is a “proper leader” what Chelsea are missing?Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Liam Twomey and Phil HayExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 29, 202434 min

Man United sack Ten Hag: Why now & what next?

Erik ten Hag has been sacked as Manchester United manager having won just four games from 14 in all competitions at the start of this season.So, why now and what next for Man United?The Athletic's David Ornstein, who broke the story along with Adam Crafton, drops in to reveal the detail within United's decision while Ayo Akinwolere is joined by Laurie Whitwell and Mark Critchley to analyse the decision to let Ten Hag go.Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Laurie Whitwell and Mark CritchleyExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Guy Clarke Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 28, 202431 min

The Preview - Arsenal vs Liverpool

Welcome to The Preview on The Athletic FC, where each week we go deep on the biggest game of the weekend.This week — we’re focusing on Arsenal vs Liverpool.Plus, we look at the fixtures elsewhere with drop ins from the club podcasts across our network.Host: Adam LeventhalWith: Tim Spiers, Nick Miller, Michael Cox, James PearceExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Jay Beale Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 25, 202438 min

Are Tottenham's owners looking to sell?

With Tottenham on the lookout for potential new investors this week has seen speculation intensify around the possibility of Amanda Staveley, who brokered the Saudi Public Investment fund takeover of Newcastle United, setting her sights on Spurs.But would Spurs be able to spend enough to make a difference on the pitch?Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic Matt Slater and Jack Pitt-Brooke to discuss Tottenham’s need for external funding, the role of Daniel Levy and how any investor would fit into the current power dynamic at Spurs as well as assessing the type of profile that would suit them.Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Matt Slater and Jack Pitt-BrookeExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Guy Clarke Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 24, 202436 min

Has Klopp damaged his legacy by joining Red Bull?

Jurgen Klopp has a new job, but it’s not in management.The former Liverpool manager begins work as Red Bull’s head of global soccer from January 1, 2025.So how has a football ‘romantic’ ended up working for one of the world’s biggest corporations?Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Seb Stafford-Bloor and Simon HughesExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 23, 202436 min

Are Flick’s Barcelona as good as they look?

10 games into the La Liga season it’s Barcelona who sit top, after a convincing 5-1 demolition of Sevilla on Sunday.With Bayern Munich and Real Madrid to come, this week looks set to test Barca’s newfound resolve under Hansi FlickSo, are Barcelona back?Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's La Liga writer Dermot Corrigan to discuss Flick's start to life in Barcelona as well as their financial position before Barcelona writer Pol Ballus drops in having been at the manager's media conference ahead of Wednesday night's Champions League clash with Bayern Munich.Reading Barcelona’s accounts – and why a ‘€12m profit’ is actually a €91m lossHost: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Dermot Corrigan and Pol BallusExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Guy Clarke Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 22, 202434 min

Will Arsenal's "silly mistakes" harm their title challenge?

As Declan Rice said after Arsenal’s 2-0 defeat to Bournemouth at the weekend, the team are making "silly mistakes”.So, can Arsenal still be title contenders if they keep making these mistakes?Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Phil Hay and James McNicholasExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 21, 202429 min

The Preview - Liverpool vs Chelsea

Welcome to The Preview on The Athletic FC, where each week we go deep on the biggest game of the weekend.This week — we’re focusing on Liverpool vs Chelsea.This should be an intriguing tactical battle - Arne Slot's reds boast the best defensive record so far, while Enzo Maresca's blues top the charts for xG from open play.Plus, we look at the fixtures elsewhere with drop ins from the club podcasts across our network.Host: Adam LeventhalWith: Jon Mackenzie, Luke BosherExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Jay Beale Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 18, 202438 min

Is Jhon Duran the Premier League's next superstar?

Jhon Duran just can't stop scoring!Another goal off the bench for Colombia during the international break makes adds to the six goals he already has for Aston Villa this season, with six of those coming off the bench.So how does he go from supersub to starter?Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Aston Villa writer Jacob Tanswell and senior data analyst Mark Carey to delve into Duran's role, character and potential with the 20-year-old Colombian quickly emerging as one of the Premier League's most talked about players.Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Jacob Tanswell and Mark CareyExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Guy Clarke Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 17, 202435 min

Why England chose Tuchel

England have chosen a permanent successor to Gareth Southgate.So why has Thomas Tuchel been chosen and does he offer the best chance of winning the World Cup?Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: David Ornstein, Jack Pitt-Brooke, Liam Twomey and Phil HayExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Mike Stavrou, Jay Beale and Guy Clarke Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 16, 202443 min

Why INEOS ended Ferguson's Man United contract

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Adam Crafton exclusively revealed that Sir Alex Ferguson’s Manchester United ambassadorial contract has been ended by the club.So why have INEOS taken this decision?And with Erik ten Hag back at work after the international break - does this mean the owners have also taken a decision on the manager?Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Adam Crafton, Laurie Whitwell and Phil HayExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 15, 202434 min

Would Guardiola manage England?

As things stand, Pep Guardiola’s contract expires at Manchester City at the end of the season.. Meanwhile, the English Football Association are still to announce a permanent replacement for Gareth Southgate.So, is there any chance Guardiola would manage England?The Athletic's senior football writer Oli Kay and Man City writer Sam Lee join Ayo Akinwolere to discuss Guardiola's future as well as England's search for a permanent successor.England writer Jack Pitt-Brooke also drops by following the 3-1 win over Finland to assess Lee Carsley's position as interim head coach.Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Oli Kay and Sam LeeExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Guy Clarke Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 14, 202432 min

Premier League Review: Assessing every club so far

Adam Leventhal is joined by Tim Spiers and Jon Mackenzie to assess the opening seven gameweeks of the 24/25 Premier League season.The panel discuss all 20 teams; reflecting on Arne Slot's impressive start, the contrasting playing styles of Mikel Arteta and Pep Guardiola, the race for Europe led by Chelsea and Villa, and the four sides still yet to win a game.Plus - Brentford's fast starts, Spurs' collapse at Brighton, Forest exceeding expectations and much more.Host: Adam LeventhalWith: Tim Spiers, Jon MackenzieExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Jay Beale Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 11, 20241h 1m

What now for Paul Pogba?

He was once the most expensive player in world football but last year Paul Pogba saw his career in tatters after being handed a four-year suspension for a doping violation.Now having seen that ban reduced to 18-months he could be in line for a return to action in March.So what is next for Pogba? James Horncastle and Oli Kay are alongside Ayo Akinwolere to talk about Pogba’s ban being reduced, Juventus’ response and what could unfold between now and the Frenchman being able to return to competitive action.Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: James Horncastle and Oli KayExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Guy Clarke Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 10, 202431 min

Man City vs the Premier League explained

So the verdict has been announced in Manchester City's legal case against the Premier League over the rules on commercial deals involving clubs' owners.So can either side claim to be winners or losers from the case? And what ramifications could it all have for the 115 charges hanging over City?Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Matt Slater and Jacob WhiteheadExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 9, 202435 min

Do the winless clubs need to change to survive?

Today we’re focusing on the four winless clubs in the Premier League; Southampton, Wolves, Ipswich Town and Crystal Palace.What can these clubs do to avoid being cut adrift and their managers getting sacked?Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Tim Spiers and Phil HayExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 8, 202433 min

Are Slot's Liverpool serious title contenders?

Arne Slot has settled in nicely at Anfield with his side are top of the Premier League heading into the October international break following their 1-0 win over Crystal Palace on Saturday.Despite winning nine of their 10 games under the Dutchman in all competitions, Liverpool are yet to beat anyone in the top half of the Premier League table.So how serious is Liverpool’s challenge for the title? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Oli Kay and James Pearce to analyse Liverpool's start to the Slot era with La Liga writer Dermot Corrigan also dropping by to discuss Trent Alexander-Arnold's contract uncertainty amid possible interest from Real Madrid.Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Oli Kay, James Pearce and Dermot CorriganExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Guy Clarke Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 7, 202437 min

The Preview - Aston Villa v Man United

Welcome to The Preview on The Athletic FC, where each week we’ll be going deep on the biggest game of the weekend.This week — we’re focusing on Aston Villa vs Manchester United.After contrasting weeks in Europe, will Sunday's game decide Erik ten Hag's future?Plus, we look at the fixtures elsewhere with drop ins from the club podcasts across our network.Host: Adam LeventhalWith: Tim Spiers, Nick Miller, Jacob Tanswell, Liam Tharme, Ahmed WalidExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Jay Beale Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 4, 202439 min

How Arsenal mastered set-pieces

Why is it that everytime Arsenal get a set-piece it feels like they’ll score?Since the start of the 2021/22 season Mikel Arteta's have scored 44 goals from set-pieces with Gabriel responsible for 12 of those.So, how have set-pieces become so important?Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic FC newsletter lead writer Phil Hay, Tactics writer Liam Tharme and former Premier League defender Nedum Onuoha to debate the rising importance and focus on set-pieces including the influences of coaches such as Nicolas Jover.Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Phil Hay, Liam Tharme and Nedum OnuohaExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Guy Clarke Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 3, 202439 min

Can PSG succeed without superstars?

On Tuesday night PSG lost for first time since Kylian Mbappe left for Real Madrid having started the season seven games unbeaten prior to their visit to London.They were also without Ousmane Dembele against Arsenal, the player was dropped for disciplinary reasons.So can PSG succeed without superstars?Ayo Akinwolere is joined by Tom Williams, author of Va Va Voom, the modern history of French Football and Pierre-Etienne Minonzio from L'Equipe to discuss PSG's start to the new season, the role of Luis Enrique in their re-styling as well as which young players amongst their ranks could blossom into being their next talisman.The Athletic's Peter Rutzler also drops in with his view having been at the Emirates while Mike Stavrou also catches up with the travelling PSG supporters.Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Tom Williams and Pierre-Etienne MinonzioExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Guy Clarke Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 2, 202435 min

Is Cole Palmer the best player in the Premier League?

Since the start of 2023-24, Cole Palmer has been directly involved in 43 PL goals (28 goals, 15 assists), more than any other player.So, is Palmer the best player in the Premier League?And why is he thriving at Chelsea?Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Liam Twomey and Phil HayExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 1, 202434 min

Is Ten Hag running out of excuses?

Today we’re focusing on Manchester United after another damaging defeat, this time to Tottenham.So… what can Erik ten Hag do to turn things around? Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Laurie Whitwell, Jay Harris and Phil HayExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 30, 202435 min

The Preview - Manchester United vs Tottenham

Welcome to The Preview on The Athletic FC, where each week we’ll be going deep on the biggest game of the weekend.This week — we’re focusing on Manchester United vs Spurs at Old Trafford.With Ange Postecoglou & Erik ten Hag's sides 10th & 11th respectively, Sunday presents a huge opportunity for one to kick start their season.Plus, we look at the fixtures elsewhere with drop ins from the club podcasts across our network.Host: Adam LeventhalWith: Tim Spiers, Jon MackenzieExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Jay Beale Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 27, 202441 min

Who wants the new Club World Cup?

In June FIFA’s new Club World Cup launches but do you know where it’s being held, who’s playing in it or what the format actually is?Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Matt Slater and Adam Crafton to discuss the tournament ahead of it's relaunch in the USA next summer with Felipe Cardenas also popping by to explain what it means for the US to host the competition.Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Matt Slater & Adam CraftonExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Guy Clarke Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 26, 202439 min

Is Everton’s takeover saga finally over?

An agreement has been reached for The Friedkin Group to complete a takeover of Everton.But when will it actually be completed? And how is it being paid for? Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Matt Slater, Paddy Boyland and James Horncastle Executive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 25, 202435 min

Has Lopetegui got an impossible job at West Ham?

Today we’re focusing on West Ham. There was so much excitement over their summer transfer business, but Julen Lopetegui has won just one of his first five league games in charge.So… have the Hammers got worse under their new manager or is the job just impossible?Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Benji Lanyado, Jon MackenzieExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 24, 202434 min

Did Arsenal rattle Man City?

On Sunday, champions Manchester City and challengers Arsenal played out a thrilling 2-2 draw at the Etihad in which both sides had to come from behind.Despite trailing to Erling Haaland's early goal, Mikel Arteta's side were only denied a win in the depths of added time with John Stones equalising for Pep Guardiola's side.So have Arsenal moved closer to dethroning Man City, despite not beating them?Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Man City writer Sam Lee and Arsenal writer James McNicholas, who were both watching on to discuss the fallout from a game which involved plenty of drama both on-and-off the pitch.Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Sam Lee and James McNicholasExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Guy Clarke Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 23, 202437 min

The Preview - Manchester City vs Arsenal

Welcome to The Preview on The Athletic FC, where each week we’ll be going deep on the biggest game of the weekend.This week — we’re focusing on 1st vs 2nd as Manchester City host Arsenal at the Etihad Stadium.Plus, we look at the fixtures elsewhere with drop ins from the club podcasts across our network.Host: Adam LeventhalWith: Tim Spiers, Jon MackenzieExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Jay Beale Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 20, 202437 min

What can Aston Villa achieve this season?

Today we’re focusing on Aston Villa - looking at their season so far and what was a hectic summer transfer window..So how is Unai Emery’s side managing the demands of both Champions League and Premier League football? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Thom Harris who was there to witness Villa’s return to action in the Champions League this week & also broadcaster Dan Bardell who is very much a Villa fan too.Producer: Nick ThomsonExecutive Producer: Adey Moorhead Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 19, 202435 min

How do Real Madrid keep their Galacticos happy?

Today we’re focusing on Real Madrid and their super star players - The Galacticos.So how does Carlo Ancelotti manage the talent and the egos to deliver on the pitch?Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Dermot Corrigan, Tomas Hill Lopez-Menchero and Ramón CalderónExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 18, 202433 min

Man City's 115 charges: how could they be punished if they lose the case?

Today we’re focusing on Manchester City’s 115 charges for alleged breaches of financial rules after the long-awaited hearing started earlier this week.So how might all this play out for City?Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Phil Hay and Matt SlaterExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 17, 202439 min

Is Arsenal's squad deep enough to match Man City?

After victory in the North London derby, is Arsenal's leaner squad capable of keeping pace with Manchester City across both the Premier League and the Champions League?Also, David Ornstein will bring us all the details of manager Mikel Arteta’s new contract And what does defeat to Arsenal say about how far Ange Postecoglou are behind their local rivals.Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic’s football correspondent David Ornstein and newsletter lead writer, Phil HayHost: Ayo AkinwolereWith: David Ornstein & Phil HayExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Nick Thomson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 16, 202437 min

The Preview - Tottenham vs Arsenal

Welcome to The Preview on The Athletic FC, where each week we’ll be going deep on the biggest game of the weekend.This week — we’re focusing on the North London derby as Spurs host Arsenal at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.Plus, we look at the fixtures elsewhere with drop ins from the club podcasts across our network.Host: Adam LeventhalWith: Jon Mackenzie, Nick MillerExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Jay Beale Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 13, 202439 min

How do sporting directors prove their worth?

These days, most Premier League clubs have an executive to deal with transfers.From Richard Hughes swapping Bournemouth for Liverpool this summer to Manchester United’s pursuit of Dan Ashworth and Newcastle replacing him with Paul Mitchell who has got off to a tricky start.So, when a transfer window doesn’t go to plan, is the sporting director to blame?Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Newcastle United writer Chris Waugh, lead writer for The Athletic FC's newsletter Phil Hay and senior football writer Simon Hughes.Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Phil Hay, Chris Waugh and Simon HughesExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Guy Clarke Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 12, 202433 min

Is too much football ruining the game?

Football is at breaking point. That's the message of yet another stark warning from FIFPro who recently suggested that this season will be the "worst ever" for player workload.We have PFA Chief Exec Maheta Molango on to explain what he's hearing from players, the impact this could have on its youngest stars, and whether we're heading towards a strike.Host: Ayo AkinwolereGuests: Maheta Molango and Stuart JamesExec Prod: Adey MoorheadProd: Abi Paterson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 11, 202425 min

The Chelsea ownership crisis explained

Since Roman Abramovich put Chelsea up for sale over two years ago, the club has been plagued with instability on and off the pitch.This week - things have got worse - Clearlake and Todd Boehly’s relationship is at breaking point and the ownership is in crisis.So why has this partnership fractured, and what does it mean for Chelsea’s future? Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Adam Crafton, Liam Twomey, Simon JohnsonExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Jay Beale Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 10, 202442 min