The Athletic FC Podcast

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: Gary Neville 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…

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 Rio Ngumoha. 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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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.