The Athletic FC Podcast

Why INEOS ended Ferguson's Man United contract

15 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Adam Crafton exclusively revealed that Sir Alex Ferguson’s Manchester United ambassadorial contract has been ended by the club.So why have INEOS tak...

Would Guardiola manage England?

14 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

As things stand, Pep Guardiola’s contract expires at Manchester City at the end of the season..  Meanwhile, the English Football Association are ...

Premier League Review: Assessing every club so far

11 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Adam Leventhal is joined by Tim Spiers and Jon Mackenzie to assess the opening seven gameweeks of the 24/25 Premier League season.The panel discuss al...

What now for Paul Pogba?

10 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

He was once the most expensive player in world football but last year Paul Pogba saw his career in tatters after being handed a four-year suspension f...

Man City vs the Premier League explained

09 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

So the verdict has been announced in Manchester City's legal case against the Premier League over the rules on commercial deals involving clubs' owner...

Do the winless clubs need to change to survive?

08 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Today we’re focusing on the four winless clubs in the Premier League; Southampton, Wolves, Ipswich Town and Crystal Palace.What can these clubs do t...

Are Slot's Liverpool serious title contenders?

07 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Arne Slot has settled in nicely at Anfield with his side are top of the Premier League heading into the October international break following their 1-...

The Preview - Aston Villa v Man United

04 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Welcome to The Preview on The Athletic FC, where each week we’ll be going deep on the biggest game of the weekend.This week — we’re focusing on ...

How Arsenal mastered set-pieces

03 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Why is it that everytime Arsenal get a set-piece it feels like they’ll score?Since the start of the 2021/22 season Mikel Arteta's have scored 44 goa...

Can PSG succeed without superstars?

02 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

On Tuesday night PSG lost for first time since Kylian Mbappe left for Real Madrid having started the season seven games unbeaten prior to their visit ...

Is Cole Palmer the best player in the Premier League?

01 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Since the start of 2023-24, Cole Palmer has been directly involved in 43 PL goals (28 goals, 15 assists), more than any other player.So, is Palmer the...

Is Ten Hag running out of excuses?

30 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Today we’re focusing on Manchester United after another damaging defeat, this time to Tottenham.So… what can Erik ten Hag do to turn things around...

The Preview - Manchester United vs Tottenham

27 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Welcome to The Preview on The Athletic FC, where each week we’ll be going deep on the biggest game of the weekend.This week — we’re focusing on ...

Who wants the new Club World Cup?

26 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In June FIFA’s new Club World Cup launches but do you know where it’s being held, who’s playing in it or what the format actually is?Ayo Akinwol...

Is Everton’s takeover saga finally over?

25 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

An agreement has been reached for The Friedkin Group to complete a takeover of Everton.But when will it actually be completed? And how is it being pa...

Has Lopetegui got an impossible job at West Ham?

24 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Today we’re focusing on West Ham. There was so much excitement over their summer transfer business, but Julen Lopetegui has won just one of his firs...

Did Arsenal rattle Man City?

23 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

On Sunday, champions Manchester City and challengers Arsenal played out a thrilling 2-2 draw at the Etihad in which both sides had to come from behind...

The Preview - Manchester City vs Arsenal

20 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Welcome to The Preview on The Athletic FC, where each week we’ll be going deep on the biggest game of the weekend.This week — we’re focusing on ...

What can Aston Villa achieve this season?

19 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Today we’re focusing on Aston Villa - looking at their season so far and what was a hectic summer transfer window..So how is Unai Emery’s side man...

How do Real Madrid keep their Galacticos happy?

18 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Today we’re focusing on Real Madrid and their super star players - The Galacticos.So how does Carlo Ancelotti manage the talent and the egos to deli...

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

17 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Today we’re focusing on Manchester City’s 115 charges for alleged breaches of financial rules after the long-awaited hearing started earlier this ...

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

16 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

After victory in the North London derby, is Arsenal's leaner squad capable of keeping pace with Manchester City across both the Premier League and th...

The Preview - Tottenham vs Arsenal

13 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Welcome to The Preview on The Athletic FC, where each week we’ll be going deep on the biggest game of the weekend.This week — we’re focusing on ...

How do sporting directors prove their worth?

12 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

These days, most Premier League clubs have an executive to deal with transfers.From Richard Hughes swapping Bournemouth for Liverpool this summer to M...

Is too much football ruining the game?

11 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Football is at breaking point. That's the message of yet another stark warning from FIFPro who recently suggested that this season will be the "worst ...

The Chelsea ownership crisis explained

10 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Since Roman Abramovich put Chelsea up for sale over two years ago, the club has been plagued with instability on and off the pitch.This week - things ...

Is Pochettino the right fit for USMNT?

09 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Mauricio Pochettino is set to be confirmed as the new head coach of the US Men’s National TeamThe Argentine takes charge less than two years out fro...

Premier League Review: What we've learned so far

06 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Adam Leventhal is joined by Tim Spiers and Jon Mackenzie to assess the opening three weeks of the 24/25 Premier League season.The panel reflect on Liv...

Is the Premier League losing control of PSR?

05 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

This week, Leicester City won their appeal against a Premier League charge for PSR breaches.Everton & Nottingham Forest have already been punished...

Why has Osimhen ended up in Turkey?

04 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Victor Osimhen was once the hottest strikers in European football. But instead of a move to PSG or Chelsea, the 25-year-old is swapping Naples for Ist...

Can Everton be saved?

03 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Today we’re focusing on the Premier League club that is rock bottom of the table after three straight losses.Meanwhile, off the pitch, their future...

Has Slot exposed Ten Hag already?

02 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Today we’re picking the bones out of Liverpool’s 3-0 rout of Manchester United.Arne Slot has begun life at Anfield with three wins from three, as ...

The Preview - Manchester United vs Liverpool

30 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Welcome to The Preview on The Athletic FC, where each week we’ll be going deep on the biggest game of the weekend.This week — we’re focusing on ...

Will the new-look Champions League be more exciting?

29 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Ahead of the Champions League returning it’s goodbye to the group stage and that’s not the only change - you’ll probably notice they’ve dabble...

Are big-spending Brighton onto something special?

28 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Brighton have had an impressive start under their 31-year old-manager Fabian Hurzeler and an even more impressive transfer window - with £200million ...

Ugarte, Sancho and Chelsea's fire sale: Ornstein’s transfers to watch

27 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

With just days left until the transfer window closes - what big moves should we look out for?So what is going to happen with Raheem Sterling and Jadon...

Will Kompany restore Bayern's dominance?

26 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

One game, one win but Vincent Kompany’s Bayern Munich had to leave it late to get the job done! Serge Gnabry with a late winner as they came from be...

The Preview - Aston Villa vs Arsenal

23 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Welcome to The Preview on The Athletic FC, where each week we’ll be going deep on the biggest game of the weekend.This week — we’re focusing on ...

Is Conte already losing patience at Napoli?

22 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Only a week into the season but it appears Napoli boss Antonio Conte has already gone full Conte. After an opening day defeat he said his side "melted...

Why Barcelona are letting Gundogan re-join Man City

21 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

So Manchester City have now reached agreement with Ilkay Gundogan over a free transfer from Barcelona.So is it a no-brainer for City to bring back a p...

Why hasn't Ivan Toney got his 'big move'?

20 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

It felt like a host of top clubs would be queuing up to sign Brentford striker Ivan Toney this summer.He’s been linked with a lucrative move to the...

What next for Sterling after Chelsea snub?

19 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Once again we’re asking what is going on at Stamford Bridge.So after being unhappy at being left out for the season opener.What now for Raheem Sterl...

The Preview - Chelsea vs Manchester City

16 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Welcome to The Preview on The Athletic FC, where each week we’ll be going deep on the biggest game of the weekend.This week — Opening week! — we...

How secure is Eddie Howe at Newcastle?

15 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

After missing out on European football last season, it’s been a summer of uncertainty at Newcastle United.Changes in the boardroom have seen Eddie H...

Are Liverpool being left behind by busy rivals?

14 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Liverpool have been rejected.So why has Martín Zubimendi turned down a move to Anfield under new manager Arne Slot?And are they at risk of being left...

Is Solanke Tottenham's replacement for Kane?

13 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

It’s been a year since the departure of Harry Kane from Tottenham.But with record signing Dominic Solanke are Tottenham finally replacing their all-...

Will Man United's summer of change end the chaos?

12 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

New coaches, new CEO, new Sporting Director - you name it - it’s been a summer, of upheaval at Manchester United.That's before you even look at the...

Uncertainty at Man City: Pep, Alvarez, and looming charges

09 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Pep Guardiola has entered the final year of his Manchester City contract.With the uncertainty around many players futures, and the 115 charges still l...

Chelsea: new manager, same problems

08 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

With just one win in five games, Chelsea’s US Tour hasn’t quite gone to plan, conceding four goals apiece to both Celtic and Manchester City along...

How can Barcelona afford Dani Olmo?

07 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Fresh off an outstanding Euro 2024 campaign with Spain, Dani Olmo is close to a 60 million euro move to Barcelona.But given their ongoing financial is...

Zlatan interview: Milan love affair, Man United and being 'God'

06 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

On today’s podcast we bring you our reporter Adam Crafton’s exclusive interview with Zlatan Ibrahimovic.With 561 goals for club and country and 12...

Are Arsenal ready to topple Man City?

05 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Despite going close in each of the past two seasons, Arsenal have ultimately finished both empty-handed.So is this the season Mikel Arteta finally del...

Are Premier League friendlies enough for U.S. fans?

31 Jul 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Arsenal, Manchester United and Liverpool are just some of the teams in America during pre-season supposedly giving back to their fans abroad.But is it...

What now for Southgate & England?

15 Jul 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Spain are deservedly champions of Europe.So why are England once again unable to take the final step?And will it be Gareth Southgate’s final game...

Is Lamine Yamal the heir to Messi's throne?

12 Jul 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Lamine Yamal turns 17 the day before Spain’s Euro 2024 final against England and he’s already produced the moment of the tournament with his wond...

Are England good or just lucky?

11 Jul 2024

Contributed by Lukas

England left it late, but thanks for Ollie Watkins' last minute winner are through to the final at Euro 2024.So are they now good, or just really luck...

How will Liverpool benefit if FSG buy Bordeaux?

10 Jul 2024

Contributed by Lukas

On Friday, Arne Slot was officially unveiled as head coach in a new era at Liverpool.Yesterday, The Athletic reported that the club’s owners FSG are...

Arteta eyes Calafiori & why Man United want Zirkzee

09 Jul 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Manchester United are working to finalise a deal for Bologna forward Joshua Zirkzee.His performances in Italy have earned him a spot in the Dutch squa...

Should England drop Kane?

08 Jul 2024

Contributed by Lukas

England are through to the semi-final at Euro 2024 after seeing off Switzerland on penalties. Yet for Gareth Southgate’s side there were familiar pr...

Why Ten Hag survived Man United overhaul

05 Jul 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Just weeks after considering managerial replacements, Manchester United have extended Erik ten Hag’s contract until 2026.With so much structural cha...

Is the Ronaldo circus holding Portugal back?

04 Jul 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Try as he might, Cristiano Ronaldo is still waiting for his first goal at Euro 2024, despite having 20 shots at goal during the tournament so far.Mayb...

Why have Spurs spent £40m on Archie Gray?

03 Jul 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Tottenham have won the race for teenage sensation Archie Gray, seeing off competition from the likes of Brentford and Borussia Dortmund.Leeds United ...

Can Newcastle spend now PSR issues are fixed?

02 Jul 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Less than a month into this summer’s transfer window, one crucial deadline has already passed as club’s scrambled to comply with PSR.Amongst thos...

Does it matter how England play if they win?

01 Jul 2024

Contributed by Lukas

England have squeezed through to the quarter-finals of Euro 2024 thanks in part to a moment of genius from who else but Jude Bellingham.It was an unde...

Why have France been so boring?

28 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

After three lacklustre displays - France failed to top their group at a major tournament for the first time in 12 years.Their two goals so far at Euro...

Has Rangnick made Austria genuine contenders?

27 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

At Euro 2024, there is one team everyone seems to have a soft spot for, and they have probably been the most impressive.Ralf Rangnick's Austria finish...

Have England gone stale under Southgate?

26 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

So, England are through to the last 16 of Euro 2024 as group winners but once again were underwhelming in their 0-0 draw with Slovenia. Could turning ...

Have Premier League clubs found a PSR loophole?

25 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Welcome to the latest edition of The Transfer DealSheet, our guide to the summer transfer window.David Ornstein brings us the latest developments acro...

Is Spain's tiki-taka era over?

24 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Having grown synonymous with their tiki-taka style of play, Spain have so far shown another side at Euro 2024, in beating both Croatia and Italy.So wh...

Is Nagelsmann the best coach at the Euros?

21 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Germany have been one of the most dominant sides so far at this summer’s Euros.They’ve already qualified for the knockout stages after impressive ...

Can Brazil's new generation win without Neymar?

20 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

The Euros may have already exploded into action - but tonight comes Copa America!As ever Brazil are amongst the tournament favourites - but will they ...

Does Martinez know what he's doing with Portugal?

19 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Portugal’s Euro 2024 campaign got off to a winning start last night, with a late show from their substitutes.But it was far from a convincing perfor...

Will Everton sell Branthwaite to Man United?

18 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

With the transfer window now officially open, Manchester United have wasted no time in making their intentions clear, submitting a bid for Everton's J...

What do England's Euros rivals think of them?

17 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

England’s Euro 2024 is up and running with a win over Serbia. With their superstar talents, is there perhaps a whiff of arrogance by those who foll...

Why Man United are sticking with Ten Hag

12 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

After weeks of uncertainty, news broke on Tuesday that Erik Ten Hag is to remain as manager of Manchester United.So why have Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INE...

What Sesko staying means for Arsenal & Barcelona transfer plans

11 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Welcome to another edition of The Transfer DealSheet, our guide to the summer transfer market where David Ornstein will bring us latest developments a...

The Radar: Florian Wirtz

09 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Welcome to episode 12 of The Radar, where The Athletic's unrivalled range of global football experts will profile some of the game's most exciting up ...

The Radar: Johan Bakayoko

09 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Welcome to episode 11 of The Radar, where The Athletic's unrivalled range of global football experts will profile some of the game's most exciting up ...

The Radar: Kendry Páez

08 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Welcome to episode 10 of The Radar, where The Athletic's unrivalled range of global football experts will profile some of the game's most exciting up ...

The Radar: Xavi Simons

08 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Welcome to episode 9 of The Radar, where The Athletic's unrivalled range of global football experts will profile some of the game's most exciting up a...

The Radar: Yáser Asprilla

07 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Welcome to episode 8 of The Radar, where The Athletic's unrivalled range of global football experts will profile some of the game's most exciting up a...

The Radar: Benjamin Šeško

07 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Welcome to episode 7 of The Radar, where The Athletic's unrivalled range of global football experts will profile some of the game's most exciting up a...

The Radar: Marcelo Flores

06 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Welcome to episode 6 of The Radar, where The Athletic's unrivalled range of global football experts will profile some of the game's most exciting up a...

The Radar: João Neves

06 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Welcome to episode 5 of The Radar, where The Athletic's unrivalled range of global football experts will profile some of the game's most exciting up a...

The Radar: Folarin Balogun

05 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Welcome to episode 4 of The Radar, where The Athletic's unrivalled range of global football experts will profile some of the game's most exciting up a...

The Radar: Warren Zaïre-Emery

05 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Welcome to episode 3 of The Radar, where The Athletic's unrivalled range of global football experts will profile some of the game's most exciting up a...

Olise, Sesko, Gallagher: Summer transfers to watch

04 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

The summer transfer window officially opens on June 14 as clubs look to strengthen their squads ahead of the 2024/25 season.So what kind of business i...

The Radar: Endrick

03 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Welcome to episode 2 of The Radar, where The Athletic's unrivalled range of global football experts will profile some of the game's most exciting up a...

The Radar: Lamine Yamal

03 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Welcome to episode 1 of The Radar, where The Athletic's unrivalled range of global football experts will profile some of the game's most exciting up a...

Why Bayern chose Kompany

30 May 2024

Contributed by Lukas

After a three month search, Bayern Munich have finally secured a new head coach having appointed former Burnley manager Vincent Kompany.So why have Ba...

Inside Pochettino’s Chelsea exit

22 May 2024

Contributed by Lukas

On Tuesday, Mauricio Pochettino left his position as Chelsea head coach by mutual consent after less than 11 months in the job.After a poor start he l...

Can Man City's dominance be separated from their 115 charges?

20 May 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Manchester City have created English football history by winning a fourth consecutive top flight title.But do Pep Guardiola’s side get the recogniti...

Premier League last day and race for Europe

17 May 2024

Contributed by Lukas

It’s matchday 38 in the Premier League and the title race is down to the final day with Man City taking on West Ham and Arsenal up against Everton.T...

What made Postecoglou so angry?

16 May 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Ange Postecoglou was clearly furious after Tottenham’s 2-0 defeat to Manchester City.But what made him so upset after what was one of Spurs’ bett...

Can Glasner's resurgent Palace keep Olise and Eze?

15 May 2024

Contributed by Lukas

On Monday, The Athletic reported news of Bayern Munich’s attempt to prize Oliver Glasner from Crystal Palace for a hefty sum.That’s credit to the ...

Would Man United & Newcastle really want the Conference League?

14 May 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Newcastle United face Manchester United on Wednesday with both clubs competing for a place in Europe next season. But is the increased strain on squa...

Will Arsenal's process win a title?

13 May 2024

Contributed by Lukas

After recording just a second win in 17 Premier League visits to Old Trafford Arsenal have taken the title race to the final day.So can Arsenal now co...

Can Arsenal break Old Trafford curse?

10 May 2024

Contributed by Lukas

It’s matchday 37 in the Premier League and the main focus is on Manchester United vs Arsenal, another huge match in the title race.Elsewhere, Fulham...

Will Chelsea keep Pochettino next season?

09 May 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Last night in L.A. Chelsea chairman Todd Boehly said he drew positives from his side’s recent form in the Premier League.So has the Chelsea project ...

Why can’t Bayern Munich find a manager?

08 May 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Bayern Munich announced back in February that this season would be Thomas Tuchel’s last as their manager.Fast forward three months and Bayern are ye...