The Athletic FC Podcast

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...

Why does Lopetegui want West Ham?

07 May 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Last night, West Ham announced that David Moyes will leave the club when his contract expires in the summer.After a prolonged search for Moyes’ succ...

Can anyone stop Real Madrid?

06 May 2024

Contributed by Lukas

On Saturday Real Madrid were confirmed as La Liga champions for a record-extending 36th time, following Barcelona's 4-2 defeat at Girona.So how did t...

Will Arsenal or City slip up in the title race?

03 May 2024

Contributed by Lukas

It’s matchday 36 in the Premier League and the title race is once again the main focus. Arsenal host Bournemouth while Man City go up against Wolves...

New Premier League financial rules explained

02 May 2024

Contributed by Lukas

So on Monday Premier League clubs opted to push on with plans for a hard spending limit — a de facto salary cap tied to the income of the lowest ear...

Inside Xavi's bizarre Barcelona U-turn

01 May 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Back in January, Xavi announced he would be stepping down as Barcelona boss at the end of the season, citing the role as a “cruel job” that “wea...

Salah set to stay at Liverpool - but for how long?

30 Apr 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Mohamed Salah’s heated exchange with Jurgen Klopp last weekend left many questioning whether the forward would join his manager in leaving Liverpool...

Can Project Postecoglou make Spurs contenders?

29 Apr 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Arsenal were too much for Tottenham in yesterday’s North London derby, running out 3-2 winners at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.After the games, Spu...

Can Spurs halt Arsenal's title charge?

26 Apr 2024

Contributed by Lukas

It’s matchday 35 in the Premier League and it’s a huge north London derby as Arsenal go to Spurs hoping to stay in the title race.Elsewhere, Man C...

Is Slot the right man for Liverpool?

25 Apr 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Almost three months on from Jurgen Klopp announcing his intention to stand down, Liverpool have earmarked the man they’d like to replace him.So why...

Inzaghi and Inter: What next?

24 Apr 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Playing an exciting brand of attacking football it’s no wonder Simone Inzaghi is now being linked to high-profile managerial jobs in England and abr...

Will Ruben Amorim be a Premier League manager next season?

23 Apr 2024

Contributed by Lukas

On Monday, The Athletic revealed that West Ham have held talks with Sporting Lisbon boss Ruben Amorim to be their next manager… He is also being lo...

Why Man United's Wembley embarrassment runs deep

22 Apr 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Before taking his seat at Wembley, Sir Jim Ratcliffe completed the London Marathon and compared the race, to the job he has to do at Old Trafford.Seei...

Can Palmer haunt City again?

19 Apr 2024

Contributed by Lukas

It’s matchday 34 in the Premier League as Arsenal go to Wolves in the big clash in the title race.Elsewhere, it’s the FA Cup semi-finals, as Chels...

How ruthless can Arsenal be this summer?

18 Apr 2024

Contributed by Lukas

On Wednesday night, Arsenal's Champions League hopes were ended in Munich, in their first quarter-final at that level in 14 years.Afterwards Mikel Art...

Are Premier League matches heading to the U.S.?

17 Apr 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Last night were were reminded why the Champions League is the biggest draw in world football.Meanwhile, FIFA seem to be stepping back in the battle to...

Why Leverkusen's title is just the beginning

16 Apr 2024

Contributed by Lukas

On Sunday, Bayer Leverkusen won the first league title in their 120-year history, and the celebrations were wild.Still to play for this season; a pot...

Why is Klopp's Liverpool farewell faltering?

15 Apr 2024

Contributed by Lukas

At Anfield on Sunday, Liverpool’s terrible week got a whole lot worse.A shock 1-0 defeat to Crystal Palace has dealt a blow to Jurgen Klopp’s hope...

Can Villa rattle Arsenal again?

12 Apr 2024

Contributed by Lukas

It’s matchday 33 in the Premier League and Arsenal host Aston Villa as they look to hold on to top spot in the league table.Elsewhere, Spurs go to N...

Is PSG’s Galacticos era over?

11 Apr 2024

Contributed by Lukas

After overseeing a 27-game unbeaten run, Luis Enrique’s PSG fell to defeat at home to Barcelona on Wednesday night, losing 3-2 in their Champions Le...

Will Diego Simeone ever leave Atletico Madrid?

10 Apr 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Diego Simeone and Atletico Madrid have enjoyed and endured a 12-year love affair and it is hard to imagine one without the other. He has overseen both...

Is Arteta building a dynasty at Arsenal?

09 Apr 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Mikel Arteta takes charge of Arsenal’s first Champions League quarter final in 14 years on Tuesday night.Top of the Premier League and with the oppo...

Should Man United persist with Ten Hag next season?

08 Apr 2024

Contributed by Lukas

On Sunday Old Trafford witnessed more mayhem as Manchester United and Liverpool played out a 2-2 draw.Despite facing another 28 shots, Man United emer...

Weekend Preview: Can chaotic Man United beat Liverpool again?

05 Apr 2024

Contributed by Lukas

It’s matchday 32 in the Premier League and Manchester United host Liverpool in a match that will have big implications on the title race.Elsewhere, ...

Why Champions League qualification isn't a ‘golden ticket’

04 Apr 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Last night, Aston Villa stumbled in pursuit of securing a top four place in the Premier League losing 4-1 away to Manchester City.But as Newcastle ha...

Could De Zerbi or Frank manage at the very top?

03 Apr 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Tonight, Thomas Frank and Roberto de Zerbi go head-to-head in what some might call the data derby… Brentford and Brighton may adopt a similar appro...

How do Chelsea turn turmoil into triumph?

02 Apr 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Chelsea’s difficult season continued as Mauricio Pochettino’s side were held to a 2-2 draw by 10-man Burnley at the weekend..There’s division am...

Who do Liverpool target after Alonso decision?

01 Apr 2024

Contributed by Lukas

On the pitch Liverpool have seized the initiative in the Premier League title race following their 2-1 win over Brighton & Hove Albion on Sunday.Y...

Weekend Preview: Will Man City vs Arsenal decide the title?

29 Mar 2024

Contributed by Lukas

It’s matchday 30 in the Premier League and the huge meeting of the weekend sees Manchester City host top-of-the-table Arsenal.Title rivals Liverpool...

Who would buy a football club in 2024?

28 Mar 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Most of us can only dream of owning a football club .But for the very rich it’s an opportunity towards power, influence and… even more moneySo wh...