The Athletic FC Podcast

As we go into our final matchweek before the November international break, we take a look at which teams are floundering at the bottom of the table, and which, against all odds, are still standing strong.

With all three newly promoted clubs out of the relegation zone, Kate Mason is joined by Rob Green and tactics writer Liam Tharme to dive into why and how the newcomers are exceeding initial expectations.

Host: Kate Mason

Panelists: Rob Green, Liam Tharme

Executive producers: Adam Jones, Max Curwen Bingley

Producer: Mike Stavrou

Videographer: Grayson Moody

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

Jason Wilcox has been in the eye of the storm at Manchester United ever since Lisandro Martinez publicly blamed the club’s Director of Football for the current balance of the squad.

So with sporting directors more in vogue and recognisable than ever before, are they no longer safe from scrutiny?

Kate Mason is joined by former England international Rob Green and the The Athletic's Matt Slater and Adam Crafton, plus Joel Roberts who is the Managing Director of the Association of Sporting Directors.

Host: Kate Mason

Panelists: Rob Green, Adam Crafton, Matt Slater

Guest: Joel Roberts

Producers: Xavi Bird, Lara Sinclair

Executive Producer: Adam Jones

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

Four of the five managers nominated for the Men’s Coach of the Year at the Ballon d’Or ceremony last week hailed from Spain.

So what is it about Spanish managers, particularly from the Basque region, which makes them such good leaders from the dugout?

Emma Paton is joined by The Athletic's Barcelona correspondent Pol Ballus, Spanish editor Tomas Hill Lopez-Menchero and Spurs writer Jay Harris to assess the influx of Spanish managers across Europe, Pep Guardiola's influence and which current players are destined to become stellar coaches.

Host: Emma Paton

Panelists: Pol Ballus, Tomas Hill Lopez-Menchero, Jay Harris

Producers: Xavi Bird, Lara Sinclair

Executive Producers: Max Curwen Bingley, Adam Jones

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

The November international break is typically a moment in the Premier League season when clubs fire and hire managers. So, with pressure mounting on the likes of Michael Carrick, Pierre Sage and Regis Le Bris, how many managerial changes could we see over the next few weeks?

Plus we hear how Ruben Amorim is getting on at AC Milan after a huge Milan derby win at the weekend, West Ham's move for Scott Parker and David Ornstein's weekly Q&A section where he answers his favourite questions from The Athletic subscribers.

Emma Paton is joined by The Athletic's Football Correspondent David Ornstein and Senior Football Writer James Horncastle.

Host: Emma Paton

Panelists: David Ornstein, James Horncastle

Producers: Mike Stavrou, Grayson Moody

Executive Producer: Adam Jones

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

Arsenal made it 13 wins from their last 14 Premier League games, winning at Liverpool for the first time in 14 years in typically gritty style on Sunday.

So when neutral fans might have expected them to become more expansive this season, have they actually doubled down on what drove them to the title last campaign?

Plus, things get even worse for Michael Carrick and Manchester United at Chelsea, and have Spurs turned a corner?

Emma Paton is joined by former England international Rob Green and Man United correspondent Cerys Jones.

Host: Emma Paton

Panelists: Rob Green, Cerys Jones

Videographer: Lara Sinclair

Producer: Jay Beale

Executive producer: Adam Jones

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

Yes you’ve read that correctly, today we’re forgoing What If, and asking What is…

On today’s episode Emma Paton is joined in the studio by The Athletic’s Tim Spiers and Colin Millar to dissect what people actually mean when they say club ‘DNA’, and if it even exists in the first place.

Plus, have you ever imagined a John Terry led Chelsea? Worry not, we discuss where each top-six club might go if they had to nominate a club legend to grace the touchline.

Host: Emma Paton

Panelists: Tim Spiers, Colin Millar

Executive Producers: Adam Jones, Max Curwen Bingley

Producer: Mike Stavrou

Videographer: Grayson Moody

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

It’s a big one this weekend as Arsenal travel to Merseyside to take on Liverpool. This comes following an all time classic upset after they were knocked out of the Carabao Cup by fourth tier side Fleetwood Town.

Kate Mason is joined in the studio by Rob Green and tactics writer Liam Tharme to preview all the action at Anfield - a game so good they cleared the whole day for it - as well as break down the trending tactics of the season so far.

Plus, we ask ourselves the question, can you actually fix Manchester United?

Host: Kate Mason

Panelists: Rob Green, Liam Tharme

Executive Producers: Adam Jones, Max Curwen Bingley

Producer: Mike Stavrou, Jay Beale

Videographer: Liam Warburton

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

Since taking full control of Manchester United in 2005, the Glazers have pocketed over 1.3 billion pounds, all while racking up over 700 million in debt at the club.

So with Manchester United in crisis again, why are the Glazers nowhere to be seen?

Kate Mason is joined by former England international Rob Green and the The Athletic's Matt Slater and Adam Crafton to analyse the ownership structure at United.

Plus, the panel are joined by Tim Williams, Group Financial Controller at Manchester United from 2009 to 2014, to discuss where the blame lies for the club's decline.

Host: Kate Mason

Co-hosts: Matt Slater, Adam Crafton, Rob Green

Featuring: Tim Williams

Videographer: Lara Sinclair

Producer: Jay Beale

Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead

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

After Manchester United’s 3-0 defeat to Bournemouth it looked as though time was up for Michael Carrick.

But with news he’ll stay in charge for Saturday’s game against Chelsea, is this really a show of faith or just a stay of execution?

Emma Paton is joined by Cerys Jones and Thom Harris to get into who would be the best candidate to replace Carrick, should United move him on.

The panel are joined by Jacob Whitehead, who makes a case for Eddie Howe and Jacob Tanswell, to talk whether Unai Emery could be prised away from Aston Villa.

Plus, we hear from Seb Stafford Bloor on Julian Nagelsmann and Liam Twomey on Antonio Conte.

Host: Emma Paton

Panelists: Cerys Jones, Thom Harris, Jacob Whitehead, Jacob Tanswell

Featuring: Seb Stafford-Bloor & Liam Twomey

Videographer: Grayson Moody

Producer: Jay Beale

Exec producer: Max Curwen Bingley

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

Harry Kane won the Ballon d'Or on Monday night, pipping Kylian Mbappe and Lamine Yamal to the award.

But with just two players in the top 20 in the rankings, how can the Premier League claim to be the best league in the world when so many of the sport's superstars play elsewhere?

Emma Paton is joined by JJ Bull, Seb Stafford-Bloor and James Horncastle, who was at the ceremony and takes us behind the scenes of the glitz and glamour (and rain) in London.

Host: Emma Paton

Panelists: James Horncastle, JJ Bull and Seb Stafford-Bloor

Producers: Mike Stavrou, Grayson Moody

Exec Producer: Adam Jones

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

Michael Carrick's future is hanging by a thread at Man United after his side were embarrassed by Bournemouth at a mutinous Old Trafford on Sunday.

But with the club’s hierarchy in the spotlight, will sacking Carrick solve United’s problems?

Plus, how Spurs ended their Stamford Bridge curse and a south London themed edition of who's worrying Rob...

It's Emma Paton alongside England international Rob Green, Manchester United correspondent Cerys Jones and Chelsea correspondent Liam Twomey

Host: Emma Paton

Panelists: Cerys Jones, Liam Twomey, Rob Green

Videographer: Lara Sinclair

Producer: Jay Beale

Exec producer: Adam Jones

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

With the Ballon d'Or fast approaching, this week’s episode of ‘What If’, Emma is joined in the studio by The Athletic’s Tim Spiers, Dan Kilpatrick and Jack Pitt-Brooke to pick apart the unfathomable… What if Messi and Ronaldo didn’t exist?

Who scores their goals? Who’s career skyrockets? And topically, who wins their Ballons d’Or?

Plus, we discuss who we think will be just the 5th player outside of the two main men to win the Ballon d’Or since 2008.

Host: Emma Paton

Panelists: Jack Pitt-Brooke, Dan Kilpatrick, Tim Spiers

Executive Producers: Adam Jones, Max Curwen Bingley

Producer: Mike Stavrou

Videographer: Grayson Moody

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

It’s a jam packed show this week as Kate Mason is joined in the studio by tacticos Liam Tharme and Rob Green to discuss all the weekend’s goings on, including a fierce London derby as Chelsea host rivals Spurs.

Plus, we’re joined by former Brighton defender Adam Webster to get an inside look at all things football on the south coast. What’s it like to play for Roberto de Zerbi? How do you stop Erling Haaland? And, the question on everyone’s lips - how are Brighton that good?

Host: Kate Mason

Panelists: Rob Green, Liam Tharme, Adam Webster

Executive producers: Adam Jones, Max Curwen Bingley

Producer: Mike Stavrou

Videographer: Liam Warburton

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

Manchester United’s ownership is in the firing line again, with players accusing leadership of negligence and just two wins so far all season.

So with United in their latest doom cycle and growing unrest across their other clubs and investments, is Jim Ratcliffe’s INEOS sports empire crumbling?

Kate Mason is joined by Matt Slater, Adam Crafton and former England international Rob Green to examine the impact of United's constant failings on the INEOS landscape.

Host: Kate Mason

Co-hosts: Matt Slater, Adam Crafton, Rob Green

Videographer: Lara Sinclair

Producer: Jay Beale

Executive Producer: Adam Jones

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

Tuesday saw PSG and Barcelona lock horns at the Parc des Princes as Luis Enrique’s side came out victors despite injuries to key players Ousmane Dembele and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia.

Emma is joined in the studio by Manchester United writer Cerys Jones and Senior Editor Tomas Hill Lopez-Menchero to break down all the action.

Plus, Laurie Whitwell dials in to tell all about his two days spent with former United boss, Erik ten Hag, and we discuss the future of El Clasico, and if it remains the biggest fixture in football.

Host: Emma Payton

Panelists: Cerys Jones, Tomas Hill Lopez Menchero

Featuring: Laurie Whitwell, James Horncastle

Executive producers: Adam Jones, Max Curwen Bingley

Producer: Jay Beale

Videographer: Liam Warburton

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

It's a bumper week in the Champions League with arguably the best four teams in Europe — PSG, Barcelona, Bayern Munich and Arsenal — all facing each other. But who is actually the best side in Europe right now?

We dissect the star power, team identity, weaknesses and managers across all four teams and pick some Combined XIs.

Plus, was Spurs' first victory of the season a launchpad for their season? Or was it just Coventry at home?

Jon Mackenzie, JJ Bull and Seb Stafford-Bloor joined Emma Paton today for a bit of a Tifo takeover.

Host: Emma Paton

Panelists: Jon Mackenzie, JJ Bull and Seb Stafford-Bloor

Producers: Mike Stavrour, Grayson Moody

Executive producer: Adam Jones

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

Brighton thumped nearest rivals Crystal Palace on Sunday, taking their tally to an astonishing 34 goals in all competitions already this season.

So what is taking them to the next level? And is their form sustainable enough to mount an actual title challenge?

Plus, was Michael Carrick right to describe Man United's draw at Leeds as a 'fresh start'? And who is worrying Rob this week?

Emma Paton is joined by Rob Green, The Athletic's Spurs and England correspondent Jack Pitt-Brooke and Tactics writer Liam Tharme.

Host: Emma Paton

Panelists: Rob Green, Jack Pitt-Brooke, Liam Tharme

Videographer: Lara Sinclair

Producer: Jay Beale

Exec producer: Adam Jones

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

On today’s episode of ‘What If’, Emma is joined by long-suffering Spurs fans Dan Kilpatrick and Kate Mason, alongside Tim Spiers to deduce, what if... Spurs weren’t ‘Spursy’?

Lasagne-gate, Conte’s outburst, beefing with the Dulux dog, the choices are endless, but what do we vote the ‘Spurs-iest’ moment in the club’s history?

Host: Emma Paton

Panelists: Kate Mason, Dan Kilpatrick, Tim Spiers

Executive Producers: Adam Jones, Max Curwen Bingley

Producer: Mike Stavrou

Videographer: Grayson Moody

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

What's the biggest fight Jack Wilshere has seen in football? And Does he regret not being able to fulfil his full potential? Welcome to Truth or Padel Extra, the show where David Ornstein takes on footballers to ask questions he wouldn't be able to in a normal interview.

This week David is joined by former Arsenal player and current Luton Town manager, Jack Wilshere, to discuss the importance of family, his coaching career and looking back on regrets.

Watch the Truth Or Padel game on The Athletic FC: https://youtu.be/68SC7UCqLKA

Host: David Ornstein

Guest: Jack Wilshere

Executive Producer: Joe Devine

Editors: Don Ma, Tom Pryce

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

We’ve got a big weekend of Premier League action ahead of us, so we’re back in the studio for another episode of The Tactical Preview.

This week we’re honing in on Spurs vs Coventry, and if Roberto De Zerbi’s team are starting to find their rhythm.

Kate Mason is joined by Rob Green and tactics writer Liam Tharme to preview this weekend’s biggest games, including ‘The Roses Rivalry’, as pressure mounts on United boss Michael Carrick.

Plus, we breakdown the details on playing versus 10, and how some teams are better set up to do that than others.

Host: Kate Mason

Panelists: Rob Green, Liam Tharme

Executive producers: Adam Jones, Max Curwen Bingley

Producer: Mike Stavrou

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

Manchester City and PSG put on a show in the Champions League last night, but their situations off the pitch are very different.

City are now public enemy number one after being ruled to have systematically broken Premier League rules. So why are PSG, who have their own historic financial breaches, not legally viewed the same way?

Kate Mason is joined by Adam Crafton, Jacob Whitehead and former England international Rob Green to explain. Plus, Matt Slater joins down the line from Zurich where Gianni Infantino is making his first public FIFA appearance since the World Cup.

Host: Kate Mason

Panelists: Adam Crafton, Jacob Whitehead, Rob Green, Matt Slater

Videographer: Lara Sinclair

Executive producer: Adam Jones

Producer: Jay Beale

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

Manchester United continued their poor run of form with a 2-0 loss to Diego Simeone’s Atletico Madrid on Tuesday night, but it was Lisandro Martinez’s explosive post match interview that grabbed the headlines.

Emma is joined in the studio by The Athletic’s Manchester United writer Cerys Jones and Senior Editor Tomas Hill Lopez-Menchero to dig into all the action, plus, Senior sports news reporter Matt Slater explains the IFR’s State of Football report.

Host: Emma Paton

Panelists: Cerys Jones, Tomas Hill Lopez-Menchero, Matt Slater

Featuring: Laurie Whitwell

Executive Producers: Adam Jones, Max Curwen Bingley

Producer: Jay Beale

Videographer: Liam Warburton

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

Cole Palmer signed a contract extension with Chelsea over the weekend to signify his commitment to the club. So are the Blues entering a long overdue era of stability under Xabi Alonso, and has new signing Morgan Rogers become the glue at the club already?

Plus, are Everton’s American owners looking to sell the club already?

Emma Paton is joined by David Ornstein and special guest James Allcott in studio to discuss two big stories that emerged over the weekend.

Host: Emma Paton

Panelists: David Ornstein, James Allcott

Producers: Mike Stavrou, Grayson Moody

Executive Producer: Adam Jones

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

Manchester City's 3-0 win at Liverpool on Sunday felt surreal, with the football itself almost a footnote to the wider picture surrounding City since they were found guilty of almost all the Premier League charges relating to financial breaches.

Are all of City's games going to feel this way until the sanctions are delivered? How are their players and fans meant to react? And what did the display say about Liverpool?

Host Emma Paton was joined by former England international Rob Green and The Athletic's Manchester United correspondent Cerys Jones to discuss the fallout from Anfield. Plus, does Michael Carrick have more problems than Roberto de Zerbi? And are we worried about Fulham?

Host: Emma Paton

Panelists: Rob Green, Cerys Jones

Featuring: Sam Lee & James Pearce

Executive producer: Adam Jones

Producer: Jay Beale

Videographer: Lara Sinclair

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

In the latest episode of David Ornstein's 'Truth or Padel' series, David meets former Barcelona, Bayern Munich and Liverpool midfielder Thiago Alcantara.

Thiago discusses coming to terms with his body being unable to play anymore, advice for the next generation of players, the ‘death’ of beautiful football, and the best young players in the world.

Host: David Ornstein

Guests: Thiago Alcantara

Executive Producer: Joe Devine

Editor: Don Ma

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

This week's Tactical Preview focuses on one of the biggest games in Premier League history: Liverpool vs Manchester City at Anfield on Sunday.

The matchup has been given more significance after the news of City's guilty ruling, so how will the players fare on the day and will it alter their tactical approach?

Kate Mason is joined by former England goalkeeper Rob Green and The Athletic's tactics writer Liam Tharme to discuss the game at Anfield, plus Manchester United vs Spurs, Arsenal vs Leeds and Brentford's trip to Villa Park.

The panel also discuss the concepts of rest defence and counter-pressing; who does it best and why it is so important.

Host: Kate Mason

Guests: Rob Green, Liam Tharme

Executive Producer: Adam Jones

Producers: Mike Stavrou & Liam Warburton (

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

Liverpool went toe to toe with Manchester City during a period when City have now been found guilty of breaching the Premier League's financial rules. So does this change how we should view Jurgen Klopp's achievements as Liverpool manager and FSG's running of the club?

Adam Crafton, Matt Slater and Rob Green join Kate Mason on the usual Thursday Club to discuss that era, the best run clubs in the game and what truly makes a good owner.

Host: Kate Mason

Guests: Rob Green, Matt Slater, Adam Crafton

Executive Producer: Adam Jones

Producer: Jay Beale

Videographer: Ben Whitcombe

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

This week's What If is centred on the biggest story in town: Manchester City's guilty ruling.

Emma Paton is alongside The Athletic's Tim Spiers, Jack Pitt-Brooke and Dan Kilpatrick to discuss who was the most impacted by City's spending, and if that money hadn't been spent, where would the rest of the division be?

What if the big signings they made went elsewhere, who else would they have signed in their place and what is an appropriate punishment?

Host: Emma Paton

Co-hosts: Tim Spiers, Dan Kilpatrick, Jack Pitt-Brooke

Exec Producer: Adam Jones

Producers: Mike Stavrou, Grayson Moody

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

Manchester City supporters are facing a new reality - their club has been vilified since The Athletic revealed they had been found guilty of almost all the Premier League charges relating to financial breaches nearly two weeks ago.

So how do their fans feel about it? And how has their relationship with the club changed, if at all?

Two of The Athletic's resident City supporters - Jack Pitt-Brooke and Thom Harris - join Emma Paton to debate and discuss their conflicting feelings.

Plus, The Athletic's Jacob Whitehead drops by to talk about one of the other big side plots to this story - Rui Pinto - the Portuguese whistleblower who gained access to Manchester City's servers, leaking emails and documents that prompted the Premier League's investigation.

Host: Emma Paton

Co-hosts: Jack Pitt-Brooke, Thom Harris

Featuring: Jacob Whitehead

Exec Producer: Adam Jones

Producer: Jay Beale

Videographer: Liam Warburton

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

Who are the best up and coming managers and head coaches across Europe right now?

In this episode, Emma Paton, David Ornstein and James Horncastle detail who they think are the ones to watch - from Cesc Fabregas to Regis Le Bris - and discuss the shifting managerial landscape with so many 'big personalities' moving towards the international game.

David also discusses Mikel Arteta's new contract and Arsenal and how Manchester City's players will respond to the pressure at Liverpool on Sunday.

Host: Emma Paton

Co-hosts: David Ornstein, James Horncastle

Exec Producer: Adam Jones

Producer: Mike Stavrou

Videographer: Grayson Moody

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

Manchester City have lodged their appeal against the Premier League's independent commission after being found guilty of almost all the charges made against them.

On today's show, we explain how City's appeal process will work and why they still believe they can overturn the initial verdict.

Plus, the panel review England's 7-0 thrashing of Croatia, discuss Cavan Sullivan's debut for the USMNT and get excited for the return of the Premier League this weekend.

Emma Paton is joined by Rob Green and Cerys Jones in the studio and The Athletic's Football Finance expert Chris Weatherspoon.

Host: Emma Paton

Co-hosts: Rob Green, Cerys Jones

Featuring: Chris Weatherspoon, Felipe Cardenas

Exec Producers: Adam Jones

Producers: Jay Beale

Videographer: Liam Warburton

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

What If is back with a big topic: VAR. Should the contentious technology continue or should the Premier League vote to scrap it?

Emma Paton is joined by Tim Spiers, Dan Kilpatrick and former Premier League referee and VAR Graham Scott to discuss the pros and cons of getting rid of VAR.

The panel also discuss the possibility of introducing a VAR challenge system, and other potential improvements to the system.

Host: Emma Paton

Guests: Tim Spiers, Dan Kilpatrick, Graham Scott

Executive Producer: Adam Jones

Producers: Mike Stavrou, Grayson Moody

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

What is Danny Drinkwater's biggest regret?

Welcome to Truth or Padel Extra, the show where David Ornstein takes on footballers to ask questions he wouldn't be able to in a normal interview.

This week David is joined by Premier League winner and former Leicester, Chelsea and Manchester United midfielder Danny Drinkwater to discuss his rollercoaster career.

Host: David Ornstein

Guests: Danny Drinkwater

Executive Producer: Joe Devine

Editor: Don Ma

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

The Tactical Preview becomes the Tactical Review during the international break, as we look back at the first five weeks of Premier League action.

Kate Mason is joined by Rob Green and Duncan Alexander to discuss the trends from the opening stages of the campaign; from expected points, to shot conversion.

The panel also break down who has surprised and disappointed them, chatting Leeds and Everton's solid defences to Spurs' slow start.

Host: Kate Mason

Guests: Rob Green, Duncan Alexander

Executive Producer: Adam Jones

Producers: Mike Stavrou, Liam Warburton, Xavi Bird

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

Manchester City and the Premier League have gone to war since The Athletic first revealed they had been found guilty of virtually all the charges facing them last week.

We’ve discussed the responses from both sides, possible sanctions and how those within the game have reacted.

Today we’re asking… whose reputations have been damaged most? And how much bigger could this story actually get?

Host: Kate Mason

Co-hosts: Rob Green, Matt Slater, Adam Crafton

Exec Producer: Adam Jones

Producer: Mike Stavrou

Videographer: Liam Warburton

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

Manchester City have been found guilty of artificially inflating their revenues and reducing costs via "sham payments" in the verdict reached by an independent regulatory commission investigating the charges brought against them by the Premier League.

Kate Mason is joined by The Athletic's senior news reporter Matt Slater, at the European Football Clubs general assembly in Copenhagen as well as former England goalkeeper Rob Green to react to the statements released by both the Premier League and Man City.

The Athletic's football finance writer Chris Weatherspoon also breaks down the nature of the "sham" payments as outlined by the commission as well as the extent of the owner funding within Man City's ownership group.

Our Man City correspondent Sam Lee also joins to discuss City's stance, as the club continue to insist on their innocence and well as saying they will "pursue the appeal avenues open" to them.

Host: Kate Mason

With: Matt Slater, Rob Green, Chris Weatherspoon and Sam Lee

Executive Producer: Guy Clarke

Producer: Xavi Bird

Videographer: Liam Warburton

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

Last week, David Ornstein dropped the exclusive story that Manchester City had been found guilty of almost all their charges relating to the Premier League's financial regulations. Today, he’s here with us in the studio.

So how did the news that shook the world of football come about? How does it compare to the Calciopoli scandal in Italy? And what’s the reaction been from their rivals across England and Europe?

Host: Kate Mason

Guests: David Ornstein, James Horncastle

Executive Producer: Adam Jones

Producer: Mike Stavrou

Videographer: Grayson Moody

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

After David Ornstein exclusively revealed Manchester City were found guilty of almost all of the 115 charges relating to breaches of Premier League financial regulations on Friday, we’re here to explain what those charges actually are, what the immediate fallout has been from the verdict, and what happens next.

Emma Paton is joined by The Athletic’s senior football reporter Adam Crafton in New York, managing editor of news Luke Bosher and Manchester United correspondent Cerys Jones.

Executive Producer: Adam Jones

Videographer: Grayson Moody

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

Who does Gary Neville think will become the next great pundit? And does he see himself going into politics some day?

Welcome to Truth or Padel Extra, the show where David Ornstein takes on footballers to ask questions he wouldn't be able to in a normal interview.

This week David is joined by Manchester United legend and star pundit Gary Neville to discuss his biggest mistakes on and off the pitch, his latest moment of reflection in life and why he doesn't want to own Manchester United.

Host: David Ornstein

Guests: Gary Neville

Executive Producer: Joe Devine

Editor: Don Ma

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

Manchester City have been found guilty on almost all of the charges relating to breaches of the Premier League’s financial regulations.

In this emergency podcast, senior news reporter Matt Slater is joined by football correspondent David Ornstein and Manchester City correspondent Sam Lee to discuss the breaking news and what it means.

Host: Matt Slater

Guests: David Ornstein, Sam Lee

Executive Producers: Adam Jones, Adey Moorhead

Producers: Grayson Moody, Mike Stavrou, Liam Warburton

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

Clearlake Capital have taken “full control” of Chelsea, purchasing Todd Boehly’s minority stake.

Kate Mason is joined by Matt Slater, Liam Twomey and Rob Green to get into why Boehly’s four year affiliation with the club has come to an end, and what it means for the Chelsea ‘project’.

Plus, Matt explains Clearlake's £5bn valuation of the club - more than double the purchase price back in 2022, and we get into the latest on Chelsea's stalling stadium plans.

Host: Kate Mason

With: Liam Twomey, Matt Slater and Rob Green

Executive Producer: Adam Jones

Producer: Jay Beale

Videographer: Lara Sinclair

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

Kylian Mbappe sits down exclusively with Daniel Taylor from The Athletic for a wide ranging interview at Real Madrid’s training ground.

In a wide ranging conversation, he revealed how close he came to joining Liverpool before PSG, working with Jose Mourinho at Real Madrid, his favourite World Cup memories and what he does in his spare time to unwind.

Hosts: Emma Paton & Danny Taylor

Guest: Kylian Mbappe

Executive Producer: Alex Hoffman

Videographer: Rachael Tinde

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

Brentford continued their excellent start to the season with a 3-0 win over Chelsea on Friday night.

Emma Paton is joined by The Athletic's David Ornstein, James Horncastle and Liam Tharme to dive into how the west London side operate so efficiently on and off the pitch.

David also answers listener questions on Spurs' latest investment and what is going on at executive level at Manchester United.

Plus, don't miss our teaser for David's brand new series: Truth or Padel.

Host: Emma Paton

With: David Ornstein, James Horncastle and Liam Tharme

Executive Producer: Adam Jones

Producer: Mike Stavrou

Videographer: Grayson Moody

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

Arsenal were dealt a humbling on Saturday as Brighton ran riot on the south coast.

Emma Paton is joined by Cerys Jones and Rob Green to get into how Fabian Hurzeler did a job on the Premier League champions, and where this result leaves Mikel Arteta's side.

Plus, after their worst ever start to a Premier League season, we get into Spurs' defeat to Aston Villa that leaves them bottom of the league, and Stu James drops by to discuss his weekly feature for The Athletic, ranking the performance of all 20 Premier League teams to decide who won the weekend.

Host: Emma Paton

With: Cerys Jones & Rob Green

Featuring: Stu James

Executive Producer: Adam Jones

Producer: Jay Beale

Videographer: Lara Sinclair

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

On this week's episode of What If, we're diving into the 2021 European Super League project, which collapsed within a matter of days.

Host Emma Paton is joined by Matt Slater and Dan Kilpatrick to see what would've happened if the idea actually went ahead.

Could it have worked, what would it have meant for domestic leagues, the Champions League and the fabric of football?

Host: Emma Paton

Guests: Matt Slater, Dan Kilpatrick

Executive Producer: Guy Clarke

Producers: Mike Stavrou, Grayson Moody

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

It’s Tactical Preview time, and this week our primary focus is Tottenham Hotspur vs Aston Villa in north London.

Kate Mason is joined by Rob Green and Liam Tharme to break down how Roberto De Zerbi’s side can try and score their first Premier League goal of the season.

Also on the agenda is Bournemouth vs Liverpool, Brentford vs Chelsea and what’s been behind Hull City’s incredible start to the season.

The panel also break down the importance of pressing in the modern era and how it’s changed over time.

Host: Kate Mason

Guests: Rob Green, Liam Tharme

Executive Producer: Guy Clarke

Producers: Mike Stavrou, Lara Sinclair

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

Manchester United's 15-year-old academy prospect JJ Gabriel has outlined his desire to leave.

To discuss why and how this situation has developed Kate Mason is joined by The Athletic's Adam Crafton and Matt Slater as well as former England goalkeeper Rob Green.

Andy Mitten, co-host, of Talk of the Devils also joins having watched Gabriel extensively at youth team level within the Manchester United academy system.

As well as the situation around Gabriel's registration and Manchester United specifically the panel also delve into the impact Brexit has had on youth recruitment and retention as well as the impact youngsters like Max Dowman and Lamine Yamal have had in breaking through to first team environments at a tender age.

Host: Kate Mason

With: Adam Crafton, Matt Slater and Rob Green

Featuring: Andy Mitten

Executive Producer: Guy Clarke

Producer: Jay Beale

Videographer: Lara Sinclair

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

Liverpool saw off Spurs on Tuesday night to make it two wins from two in the cup competitions, but Andoni Iraola’s side have just one Premier League victory so far.

Emma Paton is joined by The Athletic’s James Pearce and Cerys Jones, plus author of 'Data Game: The Story of Liverpool FC's Analytics Revolution', Josh Williams to get into whether Iraola’s team are adapting to his principles.

Plus, as Andy Robertson made his Anfield return after nine years on Merseyside, the panel discuss whether the current Liverpool squad have enough leaders and consider the implications Cody Gakpo’s departure could have had on Liverpool’s output in front of goal.

Host: Emma Paton

Co-hosts: Cerys Jones, James Pearce, Josh Williams

Exec Producer: Guy Clarke

Producers: Jay Beale

Videographer: Grayson Moody

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

Spurs have scored zero goals in their first four Premier League games this season. So why are Roberto De Zerbi's side struggling to find the back of the net despite their £300m summer outlay?

Emma Paton is joined by David Ornstein and James Horncastle to discuss why they're misfiring in front of goal. Tottenham correspondent Jack Pitt-Brooke also drops by to discuss the issue.

David also answers questions from subscribers on Man United's coaching set-up, Coventry City's poor start to the season compared to Hull City and Ipswich Town and interest from Arsenal in Liverpool winger RioNgumoha.

Host: Emma Paton

With: David Ornstein and James Horncastle

Featuring: Jack Pitt-Brooke

Executive Producer: Guy Clarke

Producer: Mike Stavrou

Videographer: Grayson Moody

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

Erling Haaland settled the 199th Manchester derby with the only goal as Man City came away from Old Trafford with a 1-0 win.

Emma Paton is joined by The Athletic's Cerys Jones and former England goalkeeper Rob Green to pick through a controversial meeting.

Manchester United correspondent Laurie Whitwell reflects on Michael Carrick's anger at the decision to allow Haaland's goal with former Premier League referee Graham Scott joining us to explain the VAR process.

Man City correspondent Sam Lee explains the significance of the derby win for Enzo Maresca and we also wrap-up some of the other key talking points from the weekend with Seb Stafford-Bloor.

Host: Emma Paton

With: Cerys Jones and Rob Green

Featuring: Laurie Whitwell, Graham Scott, Sam Lee and Seb Stafford-Bloor

Executive Producer: Guy Clarke

Producer: Jay Beale

Videographer: Liam Warburton

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

Ahead of the Manchester derby, this week on What If... we're talking about Wayne Rooney and the hypothetical around whether he could have possibly made the switch across Manchester from United to City back in 2010.

Emma Paton is joined by The Athletic's Jack Pitt-Brooke and Dan Kilpatrick, as well as Andy Mitten from Talk of the Devils to delve into Rooney's at times strained relationship with Sir Alex Ferguson

Our alternative timeline ponders whether the move to City could have taken place, as well as whether Rooney could have moved to Jose Mourinho's Chelsea in 2013 as well as the impact any move could possibly have had on his own - or Sir Alex Ferguson's - Manchester United legacy.

Host: Emma Paton

With: Jack Pitt-Brooke, Dan Kilpatrick and Andy Mitten

Executive Producer: Guy Clarke

Producers: Mike Stavrou, Grayson Moody

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

This week on the Tactical Preview we're looking ahead to the first Manchester derby of the season, as Manchester United welcome Man City to Old Trafford.

Kate Mason is joined by Rob Green and The Athletic's Thom Harris to analyse City's midfield having been reconstructed during the summer transfer window with the arrival of Elliot Anderson, Ayyoub Bouaddi and Enzo Fernandez.

The Athletic's Man City correspondent Sam Lee also drops by to explain how the new unit is coming together, while the panel assess whether playing on the counter may suit Michael Carrick's side

There's also a look ahead to Fulham's trip to Anfield, having seen plenty of midfield chaos from Alvaro Arbeloa's side, while Aston Villa will be hoping to score their first Premier League goal of the season against Nottingham Forest and Hull head to Chelsea, yet to so far concede.

Meanwhile in the breakdown, the panel look at the under the radar data signings made this summer that may be worth keeping an eye on!

Host: Kate Mason

With: Rob Green and Thom Harris

Featuring: Sam Lee

Executive Producer: Guy Clarke

Producer: Xavi Bird

Videographer: Liam Warburton

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

As the Champions League returns, a number of big match-ups have played out including Real Madrid taking on Inter Milan and Liverpool facing Atletico Madrid, but where is the jeopardy?

Kate Mason is joined by Adam Crafton, Matt Slater and Rob Green to analyse the growth and investment within the Champions League and discuss whether the change to the league phase format has led to a closed-shop for the clubs capable of winning the tournament.

Plus, ahead of Sunday's Manchester derby, former Man City CEO Garry Cook joins the podcast to discuss the role the two clubs have played in raising the global profile of the city.

From a sporting, economical and political sense he reflects on his involvement with the Abu Dhabi investment into Man City back in 2008 and the ambitions of the project as well as the opportunity to be part of the growth of the city.

Host: Kate Mason

With: Adam Crafton, Matt Slater and Rob Green

Featuring: Garry Cook

Executive Producer: Guy Clarke

Producer: Jay Beale

Videographer: Lara Sinclair

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

Real Madrid’s 2-1 victory over Inter in their opening Champions League fixture was far from convincing.

Emma Paton is joined by The Athletic's Liam Twomey and Tomas Hill Lopez-Menchero to get into Jose Mourinho’s return to the Spanish capital, the panel discuss whether he’s the man to bring silverware back to the Bernabeu amid familiar problems to last season.

Plus, with the shortlist for the Ballon d'Or revealed, could Harry Kane become just the fourth Englishman to win the award?

Host: Emma Paton

Co-hosts: Liam Twomey, Tomas Hill Lopez-Menchero

Featuring: Guillermo Rai

Exec Producer: Guy Clarke

Producers: Jay Beale

Videographer: Liam Warburton

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

After seeing a late move for Folarin Balogun collapsed Everton have been left with 18 senior first team players, something manager David Moyes seems less than pleased by.

Emma Paton is with David Ornstein and James Horncastle to analyse Everton's transfer dealings, discuss why things played out in the manner they did - including looking likely to strike a deal to sell Harrison Armstrong to Nottingham Forest.

The Friedkin Group are also exploring investment opportunities in the club, so the panel assess the relationship the owners have with the club having only taken control in December 2024.

Plus there's the latest Ask Ornstein and The Athletic's Barcelona correspondent Pol Ballus also joins us to talk about Marcus Rashford's reintegration at Manchester United, following his loan spell at the Camp Nou last season.

Host: Emma Paton

With: David Ornstein and James Horncastle

Featuring: Pol Ballus

Executive Producer: Guy Clarke

Producer: Jay Beale

Videographer: Grayson Moody

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

Arsenal made it three wins from three at the start of the new Premier League season, coming from behind to beat Chelsea 2-1 at the Emirates.

Emma Paton is joined by former England goalkeeper Rob Green and The Athletic's Matt Slater to look back on the weekend's action.

Art de Roche shares his thoughts on Arsenal's attacking rotations on show against Chelsea, with Liam Twomey assessing how far off becoming title challengers Xabi Alonso's side are.

Moving away from the Emirates, the panel assess who else could challenge for the title this season, with Man City being the only other side to take maximum points so far.

Plus, Rob analyses the most noteworthy goalkeeping performances of the weekend and with the transfer window now closed, there's a look at which players could still be available on free transfers!

Host: Emma Paton

With: Rob Green and Matt Slater

Featuring: Art de Roche and Liam Twomey

Executive Producer: Guy Clarke

Producer: Jay Beale

Videographer: Liam Warburton

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

For episode two of What If... we're talking Chelsea's former owner Roman Abramovich - and the parallel universe where he buys Spurs, or even Arsenal, instead of the Blues.

Emma Paton is joined by The Athletic's Tim Spiers and Spurs writer Jack Pitt-Brooke and Chelsea writer Liam Twomey to delve into the influence of Abramovich and how he changed the game forever.

Our alternative timeline ponders what would happen to Chelsea, Arsenal, Manchester United, Mourinho and the Premier League's ownership and investment landscape had Abramovich not taken over.

Host: Emma Paton

Guests: Tim Spiers, Jack Pitt-Brooke, Liam Twomey

Executive Producer: Adam Jones

Producers: Mike Stavrou, Grayson Moody

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

Welcome back to the Tactical Preview, this week, our focus is on Arsenal vs Chelsea at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday.

Kate Mason is joined by former England goalkeeper Rob Green and The Athletic’s Tactics writer Liam Tharme to analyse Xabi Alonso’s low-possession style from their first two games and how their potent attack could go about breaking down a stubborn Arsenal side.

The panel also discuss squad building, with multiple clubs going through big changes in personnel over the summer window.

They also look at Everton vs Manchester United, Nottingham Forest vs Spurs and Newcastle vs Bournemouth - and focus on how the three B’s: Bournemouth, Brentford and Brighton, constantly reinvent themselves.

Host: Kate Mason

Guests: Rob Green, Liam Tharme

Executive Producer: Adam Jones

Producers: Mike Stavrou, Liam Warburton

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

This summer the Premier League smashed the record for spending within the division, with £1.7bn worth of transfers between Premier League clubs alone. 

Kate Mason is joined by Adam Crafton, Matt Slater and Rob Green to get into what this means for football here in the UK and why player prices are so high.

Plus, Tim Bridge, lead partner of Deloitte's Sports Business Group, drops in to talk about the impact on the wider game and growing wealth gaps across Europe.

Host: Kate Mason

With: Adam Crafton, Matt Slater, Rob Green

Featuring: Tim Bridge

Executive Producer: Adam Jones

Producer: Jay Beale

Videographer: Lara Sinclair

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

The transfer window is now closed after another summer of truly bonkers spending. 

Emma Paton is joined by The Athletic's David Ornstein & James Horncastle to get into the deals that stood out and the deals that fell through, including Folarin Balogun's failed move to Everton that had repercussions for Chelsea.

Plus, the panel reveal their favourite signing of the summer, the transfer that made them double take and which set of fans shout be most concerned now the window has shut.

Host: Emma Paton

With: David Ornstein and James Horncastle

Executive Producer: Adam Jones

Producer: Jay Beale

Videographer: Grayson Moody

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

Welcome to our Deadline Day coverage with The Athletic's transfer specialist, David Ornstein, hosted by Emma Paton. 

They are joined by football analyst JJ Bull and other The Athletic reporters to figure out what transfers could still happen and analyse the latest news.

Host: Emma Paton

Co-hosts: David Ornstein, JJ Bull, Seb Stafford-Bloor

Exec Producer: Adam Jones

Producers: Don Ma, Mike Stavrou 

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

Chelsea made it two wins from two against Brighton & Hove Albion, having scored seven goals in their opening two whilst also conceding five in that time.

Emma Paton is alongside former Chelsea and England goalkeeper Rob Green and The Athletic's Cerys Jones to assess the Blues' chances of challenging under Xabi Alonso.

Elsewhere over the Premier League weekend, Manchester United got their first win of the season seeing off newly-promoted Ipswich Town at Old Trafford, Hull City made it two from two while Tottenham Hotspur suffered a second successive defeat.

Seb Stafford-Bloor joins the panel in-studio to dissect Spurs' latest loss before moving onto his interview with England captain Harry Kane for the latest 'My Game In My Words' feature on The Athletic. Plus, with transfer deadline day looming David Ornstein whets the appetite for what may be to come.

Host: Emma Paton

With: Rob Green, Cerys Jones and Seb Stafford-Bloor

Featuring: David Ornstein

Executive Producer: Guy Clarke

Producer: Lucy Oliva

Videographer: Liam Warburton

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

Welcome to the first episode of a new series on The Athletic FC Podcast: What If…

Every week, host Emma Paton will be joined by a selection of The Athletic’s writers to dive into monumental sliding doors moments in football’s recent history.

From Roman Abramovich’s interest in Spurs before buying Chelsea, to how the career of Brazil's Ronaldo might look if he had avoided serious injury.

On episode one, Tim Spiers and Jon Mackenzie are on the panel to discuss Pep Guardiola’s alternative timeline had he not become a manager, or never joined Barcelona.

What would happen to Lionel Messi, Man City, Erling Haaland and the Premier League in general?

Tune in to find out.

Host: Emma Paton

Guests: Tim Spiers, Jon Mackenzie

Executive Producer: Guy Clarke

Producers: Mike Stavrou, Grayson Moody

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

The Tactical Preview is back and Aston Villa's clash against Arsenal is our primary focus this week.

Host Kate Mason is joined by The Athletic's data writer Thom Harris and former Arsenal midfielder Adrian Clarke to dissect where the game will be won and lost. They focus on Villa's frailties in beating the press, Arsenal's short corners and switches of play. The Athletic's Villa correspondent Jacob Tanswell also drops by to give the lowdown on Villa's midfield struggles in the defeat to Brighton.

The panel also focus on Chelsea vs Brighton, Man United vs Ipswich Town & Coventry City vs Hull City, as well as picking out the clubs who have had a quietly good transfer window.

Host: Kate Mason

Guests: Adrian Clarke, Thom Harris

Executive Producer: Guy Clarke

Producers: Mike Stavrou, Liam Warburton

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

Aston Villa have seen their Europa League-winning squad torn apart during the summer transfer window, despite qualifying for this season's Champions League.

Adam Crafton and Matt Slater join Kate Mason to get stuck into one of the biggest talking points in the game right now around the competitive balance within the Premier League, brought on by the spending controls set by the league.

Hannah Vanbiber also joins us in-studio to ask how the Premier League's spending restrictions differ from those commonly seen in US Sports as well as the level of interest of US owners within the Premier League.

Plus, with Premier League spending mainly focused within the division this summer, we explore the consequences on the wider European game.

Host: Kate Mason

With: Adam Crafton and Matt Slater

Featuring: Hannah Vanbiber

Executive Producer: Guy Clarke

Producer: Jay Beale

Videographer: Liam Warburton

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

After arriving for a combined £225m, Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak’s Liverpool careers are yet to get going.

Emma Paton is joined by The Athletic's Simon Hughes, Jay Harris and Seb Stafford-Bloor to get into why the pair are still struggling, and whether Andoni Iraola is the man to get the best out of them.

Plus, after Jamie Carragher called Liverpool's 2025 summer transfer window the 'worst in Premier League history', the panel assess the work of sporting director Richard Hughes, who is expected to leave the club for Al Hilal at the end of the season.

Host: Emma Paton

With: Jay Harris, Simon Hughes, Seb Stafford-Bloor

Executive Producer: Guy Clarke

Producer: Jay Beale

Videographer: Liam Warburton

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

The final week of the transfer window is the busiest time of the year and we've got you fully covered on the podcast.

Emma Paton is joined by The Athletic's Football Correspondent David Ornstein and James Horncastle to discuss the latest market moves.

The panel talk Man City's major summer rebuild including their latest big-money move for Ayoubb Bouaddi and whether they could swoop in to sign Chelsea's Enzo Fernandez at the very last minute.

David also brings us news on Aston Villa's move for Crystal Palace's Jean-Philippe Mateta, Arsenal's interest in Julian Alvarez and answers your listener questions.

Plus, Chelsea correspondent Liam Twomey drops in to talk Chelsea's 3-2 win over Fulham on Monday night.

Host: Emma Paton

With: David Ornstein and James Horncastle

Featuring: Liam Twomey

Executive Producer: Guy Clarke

Producer: Mike Stavrou

Videographer: Grayson Moody

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

Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur both fell flat on the opening weekend of the Premier League season losing to Hull City and Brentford respectively.

Emma Paton is joined by Jay Harris and Cerys Jones to assess the shortcomings for both sides, with The Athletic's Manchester United correspondent Laurie Whitwell sharing his views having been at the MKM Stadium.

Mamadou Sangare stole the show on-debut for Brentford, upstaging Spurs' new £185m midfield with both Sandro Tonali and Mateus Fernandes featuring after their summer moves.

Plus, The Athletic's Aston Villa correspondent Jacob Tanswell also joins us to discuss Aston Villa's 4-0 loss at Brighton as well as addressing the uncertainty surrounding Ollie Watkins ahead of the close of the summer transfer window.

Host: Emma Paton

With: Jay Harris and Cerys Jones

Featuring: Laurie Whitwell and Jacob Tanswell

Executive Producer: Guy Clarke

Producer: Jay Beale

Videographer: Liam Warburton

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

Welcome to a brand new offering on The Athletic FC Podcast: our Tactical Preview show.

Kate Mason, Rob Green and Liam Tharme are here to run you through the biggest matches from an analytical lens.

This week, we talk tactical trends we expect to take hold this season, while our primary focus is on the big battle at St James’ Park as Newcastle host Liverpool.

The panel also touch on champions Arsenal vs Coventry, Man City vs Bournemouth and Fulham vs Chelsea.

Host: Kate Mason

With: Rob Green and Liam Tharme

Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead

Producer: Mike Stavrou

Videographer: Lara Sinclair

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

FSG have sold nearly 40 per cent of Liverpool to a consortium including Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, as exclusively revealed by The Athletic earlier this week.

Kate Mason is joined by senior news reporter Matt Slater, former England goalkeeper Rob Green and Jack Pitt-Brooke to discuss the significance of the investment as well as Liverpool’s preparations ahead of the new season.

The Athletic’s Liverpool correspondent James Pearce shares his insight on the Reds’ pre-season preparations as they begin a new era under Andoni Iraola, while Nick Miller drops-by from Trabzon to discuss what comes next for Mohamed Salah ahead of his home debut for Trabzonspor having moved on from Anfield.

Host: Kate Mason

With: Rob Green, Jack Pitt-Brooke and Matt Slater

Featuring: James Pearce and Nick Miller

Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead

Producers: Jay Beale and Guy Clarke

Videographer: Liam Warburton

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

With just two days until the new Premier League season starts, Manchester United have made their move for Carlos Baleba.

Emma Paton is joined by Jay Harris, Cerys Jones and Laurie Whitwell to discuss why after long term interest in the Brighton midfielder, the club are once again exploring a deal to sign him.

Plus, with the promoted sides having spent £330m between them already this summer, The Athletic's football finance correspondent Chris Weatherspoon drops by to answer how they're affording it and whether spending big is the key to staying up.

Host: Emma Paton

With: Jay Harris & Cerys Jones

Featuring: Laurie Whitwell & Chris Weatherspoon

Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead

Producers: Jay Beale and Guy Clarke

Videographer: Liam Warburton

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

With nine of the 20 Premier League managers being new into their roles ahead of the new season, today we're exploring how they may fare.

Emma Paton is alongside James Horncastle and Tim Spiers to analyse who may succeed and who may struggle.

The Athletic's Newcastle United correspondent George Caulkin also drops by to discuss the introduction to life at St James' Park that Matthias Jaissle has experienced in taking over from Eddie Howe.

Host: Emma Paton

With: James Horncastle and Tim Spiers

Featuring: George Caulkin

Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead

Producers: Mike Stavrou and Guy Clarke

Videographer: Grayson Moody

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

With just four days to go until the new Premier League season starts, Arsenal have made a statement with their 3-0 win over Manchester City in the Community Shield, with news also emerging that City midfielder Rodri is on the verge of leaving for Barcelona.

Emma Paton is back in the chair, alongside former England goalkeeper Rob Green and The Athletic's Cerys Jones to discuss the strength of Arsenal's case for defending their Premier League title as James McNicholas shares his thoughts from Cardiff.

Man City correspondent Sam Lee also joins to discuss the impact Rodri leaving could have for Enzo Maresca's side as well as their plans to replace him.

Plus there's our latest feature Rob Ranks, transfer chat with Guglielmo Vicario heading for Juventus and Aston Villa looking to sign Zion Suzuki from Parma as well as the panel sharing their quickfire predictions ahead of the new season.

Host: Emma Paton

With: Rob Green and Cerys Jones

Featuring: Sam Lee and James McNicholas

Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead

Producers: Jay Beale and Guy Clarke

Videographer: Liam Warburton

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

With the Premier League just around the corner, it’s time for our predictions for the 2026/2027 season.

Adam Leventhal is joined in the studio by The Athletic’s Art de Roche and Jay Harris to get into the runners and riders for the title, relegation and more.

Will Arsenal defend their crown, who will challenge them? And can the promoted sides stay up?

With so many new managers coming into the league, the panel discuss who is most likely to hit the ground running.

And they plot exactly where all 20 clubs will finish from 1-20.

Host: Adam Leventhal

With: Art de Roche & Jay Harris

Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead

Producers: Guy Clarke, Jay Beale & Grayson Moody

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

After 13 years away, Jose Mourinho is heading back to Real Madrid but after two trophyless seasons can he return them to winning ways?

Adam Leventhal is joined by Tim Spiers and Thom Harris to analyse why Madrid have turned back to Mourinho as well as the make-up of the squad he has inherited.

The Athletic's Guillermo Rai also joins to explain the view from Madrid on his return as well as their work in the transfer window with Yan Diomande arriving, though Rodri has made his preference for Barcelona over Real Madrid clear.

Host: Adam Leventhal

With: Tim Spiers, Thom Harris and Guillermo Rai

Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead

Producers: Jay Beale and Guy Clarke

Videographer: Liam Warburton

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

As the new Premier League season approaches, we've been taking a look at which sides have impressed with their summer transfer business, and those left with work to do.

Adam Leventhal is joined by The Athletic's Tottenham Hotspur correspondent Jay Harris as well as our ranking expert Tim Spiers to look through the eye-catching summer business to date.

The market continues to be dominated by midfielders with Sandro Tonali and Mateus Fernandez heading to Spurs, while Arsenal confirmed the arrival of Bruno Guimaraes.

Our Man City writer Sam Lee touches on their interest in Chelsea's Enzo Fernandez with question marks over the future of Rodri, while the likes of Manchester United and Liverpool still look to become more proactive in the market.

Host: Adam Leventhal

With: Tim Spiers and Jay Harris

Featuring: Sam Lee

Executive Prodcuer: Adey Moorhead

Producers: Mike Stavrou and Guy Clarke

Videographer: Liam Warburton

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

Adam Leventhal is joined by Tim Spiers, Liam Tharme and Simon Johnson to discuss why after years of signing young talent, Chelsea have recruited two veterans in Danny Welbeck and Jordan Henderson.

The panel break down BlueCo's change in philosophy and whether new boss Xabi Alonso might've influenced the decision. 

Plus, Mykhailo Mudryk returns to action following 20 months on the sidelines, and Chelsea receive their punishment for 74 FA charges relating to incidents under previous owner Roman Abramovich. 

Host: Adam Leventhal

Guests: Tim Spiers, Liam Tharme, Simon Johnson

Exec Producer: Adey Moorhead

Producers: Jay Beale, Liam Warburton, Grayson Moody

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

David Ornstein is back with the latest from a busy transfer market, as champions Arsenal look to reinforce their squad with a couple of Brazilian superstars: Bruno Guimaraes and Vinicius Jr.

Adam Leventhal is joined in the studio by The Athletic’s Jay Harris and Art de Roche to break down how transformational those two signings would be for Mikel Arteta’s side.

Plus there’s the latest on moves for Rodri, Yan Diomande, Bradley Barcola, Mohamed Salah and Manchester United’s targets.

All of this, plus our latest Do Yau Know Trivia question.

Host: Adam Leventhal

Guests: David Ornstein, Art de Roche, Jay Harris

Exec Producer: Adey Moorhead

Producers: Mike Stavrou & Grayson Moody

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

Adam Leventhal is joined by The Athletic’s Matt Slater, Adam Crafton, and James Horncastle to unpack a week that shook global football. The panel dissects how Gianni Infantino’s multi-billion-dollar plans to sell off stakes in FIFA tournaments fell apart, the scale of pushback, and whether this historic U-turn leaves Infantino’s presidency in serious jeopardy.

Plus, UEFA Vice-President Laura McAllister joins the show to offer an insider perspective on leading the opposition. As a pivotal voice in the call for a potential boycott, she breaks down the emergency meetings and what needs to happen next at FIFA.

Host: Adam Leventhal

Guests: Matt Slater, Adam Crafton, James Horncastle, Laura McAllister

Exec Producer: Adey Moorhead

Producers: Jay Beale & Liam Warburton 

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

As the World Cup packs up and leaves New York, we have one final show from the Big Apple as Paul Tenorio joins Adam Leventhal to look at the opportunity the popularity of this summer’s World Cup offers MLS.

We bring you insight from MLS Commissioner Don Garber on the league’s mission statement as they declare: “we’ll take it from here”. NYCFC CEO Brad Sims and multiple MLS Cup winning executive Garth Lagerwey share their views on how MLS can open up to the global transfer market.

Plus, US Soccer COO Dan Helfrich and FIFA’s chief of global football development, Arsene Wenger provide their perspective on how MLS can ultimately help produce better players for the USMNT.

Hosts: Adam Leventhal and Paul Tenorio

Featuring: Don Garber, Brad Sims, Garth Lagerwey, Dan Helfrich and Arsene Wenger

Executive Producer: Guy Clarke

Producers: Jay Beale, Liam Warburton and Grayson Moody

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

Live in New York for the final time, Adam Leventhal is joined by The Athletic’s David Ornstein and Adam Crafton to reflect on Spain's deserved victory in a disappointing World Cup final against 10-man Argentina.

With a month to go until the start of the Premier League season, David shares his insights ahead of what is expected to be a busy period in the transfer market.

Host: Adam Leventhal

With: David Ornstein and Adam Crafton

Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead

Producers: Jay Beale, Liam Warburton and Mike Stavrou

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

Adam Leventhal is live in New York City alongside James Horncastle and Adam Crafton as they preview the World Cup Final between Spain and Argentina.

A little later, The Athletic’s Football Correspondent David Ornstein joins with all the details on his exclusive on Chelsea’s £117m agreement to sign Morgan Rogers.

Host: Adam Leventhal

With: Adam Crafton, James Horncastle, David Ornstein

Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead

Producers: Liam Warburton, Jay Beale and Guy Clarke

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

The Athletic’s Adam Leventhal, Adam Crafton, and Paul Tenorio are live from NYC to debate how successful the expanded World Cup has been.

They will also look ahead to the spectacle of this week’s final, featuring a Super Bowl-style halftime show and Donald Trump in attendance.

Plus, your questions are put live to the team, and you'll have a chance to take on today's 'Do You Know' World Cup trivia challenge.

Host: Adam Leventhal

With: Adam Crafton and Paul Tenorio

Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead

Producers: Jay Beale, Liam Warburton and Mike Stavrou

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

England’s World Cup dream is officially over. Live from New York City, Adam Leventhal is joined by The Athletic’s Adam Crafton and Reuben Pinder to break down a Messi-inspired semi-final exit at the hands of Argentina.

Did Thomas Tuchel’s tactics cost England a place in the World Cup final? They also look at what lies ahead for the manager and this squad.

From Atlanta, Jack Pitt-Brooke and David Ornstein share their reflections on England while Felipe Cardenas joins to explain how Argentina got the job done.

Host: Adam Leventhal

With: Adam Crafton and Reuben Pinder

Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead

Producers: Jay Beale, Liam Warburton and Mike Stavrou

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

Adam Leventhal is joined by The Athletic’s Editor-in-Chief Laura Williamson and Reuben Pinder, for our latest instalment from New York City.

They reflect on Spain’s comprehensive victory over France to secure their place in Sunday’s World Cup Final, before looking ahead to tonight's other semi final - the monumental clash between old rivals England and Argentina.

Plus, we dive into our ‘Discussion of the Day’ asking what is the biggest rivalry in world football, and of course bring you our Daily World Cup Quiz!

Host: Adam Leventhal

With: Laura Williamson and Reuben Pinder

Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead

Producers: Jay Beale, Liam Warburton and Guy Clarke

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

We are live from New York City! Adam Leventhal is joined by The Athletic's Football Correspondent David Ornstein and Reuben Pinder to break down a massive World Cup semi-final clash between powerhouse nations France and Spain.

We also get stuck into the latest transfer market movements, including Manchester City’s concrete interest in Lille and Morocco’s breakout midfield sensation, Ayyoub Bouaddi.

Plus plus we'll have our ‘Discussion of the Day' asking which World Cup star should your club sign and our daily quiz.

Host: Adam Leventhal

Guests: David Ornstein, Reuben Pinder

Featuring: Henry Bushnell

Exec Producers: Adey Moorhead, Guy Clarke

Producers: Jay Beale

Videographer: Liam Warburton

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

Adam Leventhal is live from New York City alongside The Athletic's editor in Laura Williamson and Football Correspondent David Ornstein to look ahead to two heavyweight World Cup semi finals.

James Horncastle drops by to explain what he thinks has been the secret to Argentina’s success at this World Cup ahead of facing England - one of football's most iconic rivalries.

Then Stuart James joins the show to preview the other heavyweight semi-final - how can Spain stop France from scoring?

We also check in on how our pre-tournament predictions are aging, answer your questions and test your knowledge with today's 'Do you know' World Cup trivia question.

Host: Adam Leventhal

Guests: David Ornstein, Laura Williamson

Featuring: James Horncastle, Stuart James

Exec Producers: Adey Moorhead, Guy Clarke

Producers: Jay Beale

Videographer: Liam Warburton

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

England are through to just their fourth-ever World Cup semi-final, after needing extra time to get past Norway in the last eight, thanks to another double from Jude Bellingham.

Ian Irving is joined by Carl Anka and Liam Twomey to look back on a dramatic evening of action, with Jack Pitt-Brooke reflecting the mood in Miami as England's mentality once again came to the fore.

As well as Bellingham's brilliance, Thomas Tuchel's substitutions are also examined before looking ahead to the last four showdown with Argentina. Adam Crafton was in Kansas to see Lionel Messi and co once again go to extra time, this time with Switzerland.

Plus there's a reflection on France and Spain having also reached the final four as well as our daily 'Do you know' trivia.

Host: Ian Irving

With: Carl Anka and Liam Twomey

Executive Producer: Guy Clarke

Producer: Grayson Moody

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

It’s Day 30 and France are into the semi-finals of the World Cup after a 2-0 victory over Morocco.

Adam Leventhal is joined in the studio by Liam Twomey and Cerys Jones to discuss the first quarter-final and the Golden Boot race, with Kylian Mbappe now level with Lionel Messi on eight goals for the tournament. Adam Crafton drops in from Boston for this one.

Man City correspondent Sam Lee also joins the panel to talk Erling Haaland, who England will have the tough task of attempting to stop when they face Norway on Saturday.

There’s also the latest on selection doubts for Thomas Tuchel over key pair Declan Rice and Marc Guehi ahead of Saturday’s quarter-final.

Host: Adam Leventhal

Guests: Liam Twomey, Cerys Jones

Featuring: Sam Lee, Adam Crafton

Exec Producers: Adey Moorhead, Guy Clarke

Producers: Mike Stavrou

Videographer: Grayson Moody

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

On Sunday, The Athletic broke the world exclusive that USA striker Folarin Balogun's ban for the USMNT's round of 16 tie against Belgium had been suspended.

Adam Crafton and Dan Sheldon, who broke the news, join Ian Irving and Cerys Jones to look back on the controversy, which included the involvement of US President Donald Trump calling FIFA President Gianni Infantino in the build-up to the USA's game with Belgium.

Former USMNT goalkeeper Tim Howard shares his perspective from a players' perspective as to the impact the whole episode will have had on the USA's preparations for the game, while Jerry Brewer, senior columnist for The Athletic gives his view on the damage the controversy will have on soccer in the USA as well as US Soccer.

Host: Ian Irving

With: Cerys Jones, Adam Crafton and Dan Sheldon

Featuring: Tim Howard and Jerry Brewer

Executive Producer: Guy Clarke

Producers: Jay Beale and Grayson Moody

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

Argentina are through to the quarter-finals of the World Cup after an incredible comeback win against Egypt.

Emma Paton is in the studio alongside The Athletic’s Mark Critchley and Liam Twomey to discuss how Lionel Scaloni’s side are able to look unconvincing, yet still win. James Horncastle drops in from Atlanta for this one.

With Switzerland also through after beating Colombia on penalties, the panel look ahead to the quarter-finals with all eight teams now in the draw.

And David Ornstein brings us the latest in the transfer market, from Manchester United’s midfield search, to Arsenal’s inactivity and Newcastle’s potential incomings.

Host: Emma Paton

With: Liam Twomey and Mark Critchley

Featuring: James Horncastle and David Ornstein

Executive Producers: Adey Moorhead and Guy Clarke

Producers: Mike Stavrou and Grayson Moody

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

The USMNT are out of the World Cup after defeat to Belgium.

While the Folarin Balogun situation dominated the build-up, the headlines centre around the USA’s elimination, after falling to a 4-1 defeat in the Round of 16.

Emma Paton is joined by The Athletic’s Jay Harris and Mark Critchley in the studio to dissect the match, with Henry Bushnell dropping by for immediate reaction from Seattle.

Elsewhere, Reuben Pinder witnessed Spain beating Portugal 1-0 - with Cristiano Ronaldo the story once again.

Plus, Paul Taylor brings us the latest on Nottingham Forest’s move for former Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner.

Host: Emma Paton

With: Jay Harris and Mark Critchley

Featuring: Henry Bushnell, Reuben Pinder and Paul Taylor 

Executive Producer: Guy Clarke

Producers: Mike Stavrou and Liam Warburton

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

England are through the quarter-final of the World Cup, following an instant classic in the Azteca against Mexico.

Emma Paton is joined by Art De Roche and Cerys Jones to pick the bones out of England's 3-2 win over Mexico, with Jack Pitt-Brooke providing his take from Mexico City.

Matt Slater also drops by from Times Square, reacting to Norway's 2-1 win over Brazil, to set-up Saturday's semi-final in Miami with England.

While there was plenty of drama on the pitch, Dan Sheldon and Adam Crafton join to explain their the news they exclusively broke that USA's Folarin Balogun is now available for their round of 16 clash with Belgium, with it later emerging US President Donald Trump made a phone call to FIFA President Gianni Infantino ahead of Balogun's one-game ban being suspended.

Host: Emma Paton

With: Art De Roche and Cerys Jones

Executive Producer: Guy Clarke

Producers: Jay Beale and Liam Warburton

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

It’s Day 24 and our focus is fully on England’s trip to the Azteca to take on Mexico.

Adam Leventhal is joined by Cerys Jones and Liam Tharme to recap the World Cup action as Argentina edged past Cape Verde to secure their place in the Round of 16 - James Horncastle drops in from Miami for that one.

In terms of England, there’s been plenty of drama in the build-up to this one. Kick-off is still 1AM UK time - despite a day of confusion. Matt Slater brings us all of the details on that situation, while Jack Lang has the lowdown on what Thomas Tuchel’s side will face in the Azteca.

And ahead of the Round of 16, we look ahead to Saturday’s matches - France vs Paraguay and Canada vs Morocco - as well as a quick preview of Sunday’s big one - Norway vs Brazil.

Host: Adam Leventhal

With: Cerys Jones and Liam Tharme

Featuring: James Horncastle, Matt Slater and Jack Lang

Executive Producer: Guy Clarke

Producers: Mike Stavrou and Grayson Moody

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

Newcastle United are set to receive £100m for midfielder Sandro Tonali, but where does that leave their aspirations?

Adam Leventhal is joined by Cerys Jones and Art De Roche to discuss the latest at the World Cup and in the transfer window.

David Ornstein reports on Tonali's imminent move to Spurs, before we look at the latest from the World Cup with Matt Slater recapping an enthralling 2-1 win for Portugal over Croatia.

The Athletic's Newcastle United writer also joins to discuss the impact of the sale of Tonali as well as interest in other key players including captain Bruno Guimaraes.

Plus, we have a look ahead to Day 23 at the World Cup with Lionel Messi looking to go clear of Kylian Mbappe in the golden boot race.

Host: Adam Leventhal

With: Cerys Jones and Art De Roche

Featuring: David Ornstein, Matt Slater and Chris Waugh

Executive Producer: Guy Clarke

Producers: Mike Stavrou and Liam Warburton

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

England left it late but got the job done, thanks to Harry Kane.

Adam Leventhal is joined by The Athletic's Carl Anka and Liam Twomey after England's emotional come-from-behind win against DR Congo as our England correspondent Jack Pitt-Brooke poses the question; is Kane England's greatest player ever?

Away from England's win, the USA and Belgium also progressed to face one another in the Round of 16. Henry Bushnell reports from the USMNT's win over Bosnia & Herzegovina including a controversial red card for Folarin Balogun, while Belgium had to come from 2-0 down to see off Senegal.

And ahead of the Day 22 action, Matt Slater joins us from Toronto ahead of Portugal taking on Croatia to discuss how the cities he's visited have connected with the tournament as well as what tournament preconceptions he had that he may have changed his opinion on.

Host: Adam Leventhal

With: Carl Anka and Liam Twomey

Featuring: Jack Pitt-Brooke, Henry Bushnell and Matt Slater

Executive Producer: Guy Clarke

Producers: Mike Stavrou and Liam Warburton

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

France's superstars continue to sparkle, as Kylian Mbappe's brace helped to see off Sweden 3-0 in at the MetLife.

Emma Paton is joined by Mark Critchley and Carl Anka to discuss France's free-flowing attack with Adam Crafton also posing the question: are France unstoppable? We also hear from Felipe Cardenas after Mexico's 2-0 win over Ecuador setting up a potential Round of 16 clash with England.

David Ornstein drops by with the latest from the transfer window as Tottenham Hotspur win the race to sign Mateus Fernandes from West Ham United in a deal worth £85m. Where does this leave Man United's search for midfield reinforcements?

Plus, ahead of the USA taking on Bosnia & Herzegovina, Henry Bushnell drops by to preview the game and the significance reaching a run to the quarter-finals could have for the USMNT.

Host: Emma Paton

With: Mark Critchley and Carl Anka

Featuring: Adam Crafton, Felipe Cardenas, David Ornstein and Henry Bushnell

Executive Producer: Guy Clarke

Producers: Jay Beale and Grayson Moody

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

Four-time World Cup winners Germany are out. So too are the Netherlands and Japan after a dramatic day at the World Cup.

Emma Paton is alongside Mark Critchley and Cerys Jones to look back on the action. Matt Slater shares his view from Boston after seeing Germany dumped out on penalties, losing their first-ever World Cup shootout to Paraguay.

David Ornstein joins us to discuss the latest in the transfer market including Chelsea's move for Granit Xhaka as well as their reaction to confirmation Enzo Maresca has succeeded Pep Guardiola as manager of Man City.

Plus, there's a look ahead to England's Round of 32 tie with DR Congo, a preview of the Day 20 action as well as our daily 'do you know' trivia.

Host: Emma Paton

With: Mark Critchley & Cerys Jones

Featuring: Matt Slater, David Ornstein and Jack Pitt-Brooke

Executive Producer: Guy Clarke

Producers: Jay Beale & Grayson Moody

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

Canada saw off South Africa as the knockout stages got underway at the World Cup, with some big games to come on Day 19.

Emma Paton is joined by The Athletic's Liam Twomey and Liam Tharme as they assess Canada's win with Josh Kloke explaining the significance of a knockout victory for the co-hosts.

There's then a look at the World Cup bracket with the panel making their predictions as to who will make the final four of the competition.

Ahead of the Netherlands taking on Morocco in one of the ties of the round, Tomas Hill Lopez-Menchero joins from Monterrey to preview the game, explain the mood in the city as well as the possibility of an England v Mexico tie in the Azteca Stadium in the next round.

Host: Emma Paton

With: Liam Twomey and Liam Tharme

Featuring: Josh Kloke and Tomas Hill Lopez-Menchero

Executive Producer: Guy Clarke

Producers: Jay Beale and Liam Warburton

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