The Athletic FC Podcast
Episodes
Is Saudi Arabia a good choice for the World Cup?
12 Dec 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Saudi Arabia will host the 2034 Men’s World Cup after running unopposed.So why has FIFA allowed this to happen? What are the wider controversies sur...
Will Tottenham stick with Project Postecoglou?
11 Dec 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Spurs have lost 19 of their last 43 matches in the Premier League, and their most recent defeat against Chelsea was particularly damaging.So have Spur...
Has Maresca turned Chelsea into title contenders?
10 Dec 2024
Contributed by Lukas
At the weekend, Chelsea overcame their biggest test yet under Enzo Maresca.The 4-3 win away at their bitter rivals Tottenham has seen them go up to se...
Inside Ashworth's shock Man United exit
09 Dec 2024
Contributed by Lukas
After just five months, Dan Ashworth has left his role as sporting director at Manchester UnitedSo why has he gone, and what does it say about the new...
The Preview - Tottenham vs Chelsea
06 Dec 2024
Contributed by Lukas
After defeat on the South Coast, Ange Postecoglou’s Tottenham host in form Chelsea. In a fixture that saw five goals scored, five goals disallowed,...
When is the best time to sack a manager?
05 Dec 2024
Contributed by Lukas
So far just two Premier League managers have been shown the door this season, with Erik Ten Hag and Steve Cooper having been sacked.But as we head tow...
Inside the transfer window with David Ornstein
04 Dec 2024
Contributed by Lukas
We’re taking you inside the 2025 transfer market to explain the deals that are being worked on across both the winter and summer windows.This includ...
Is Amorim ready for his first big test against Arsenal?
03 Dec 2024
Contributed by Lukas
So Ruben Amorim’s Manchester United have got off to a decent start, with two wins and one draw so far.But how are they going to handle a visit to Ar...
Is Man City's title race over already?
02 Dec 2024
Contributed by Lukas
As Liverpool moved 9 points clear at the top of the Premier League after a comfortable victory over Manchester City Anfield serenaded Pep Guardiola w...
The Preview - Liverpool vs Man City
29 Nov 2024
Contributed by Lukas
A major weekend of action kicks off on Friday evening, culminating in a massive game in the title race, as Liverpool welcome Manchester City.Arne Slot...
Is Serie A the most electrifying league in Europe?
28 Nov 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Ahead of this weekend’s games the top five teams in Italy are separated by just one point.Added to that, the last five seasons have seen four diffe...
Is Aston Villa's Champions League run hurting them?
27 Nov 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Aston Villa are exceeding expectations in the Champions League, but it’s seems to have come at a cost.Their form has dipped in the Premier League, l...
Premier League APT changes - what does it all mean?
26 Nov 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Last week, Premier League clubs voted in favour of amendments to the associated party transaction rules.After labelling the rules ‘discriminatory an...
Will Liverpool give Salah what he wants?
25 Nov 2024
Contributed by Lukas
"I'm probably more out than in," Mohamed Salah said on his future, after another match-winning performance against Southampton.His goals mean Liverpo...
Sudan: Football and the Forgotten War
24 Nov 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In April 2023, civil war broke out in Sudan. It continues to this day leaving in its wake the worst humanitarian crisis in the world, according to the...
The Preview - Man City vs Tottenham
22 Nov 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Manchester City host Tottenham at the Etihad, the first game since Pep Guardiola announced he’ll be staying in Manchester a little longer. Tottenha...
Has FPL transformed how we watch football?
21 Nov 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Today we’re talking; captains, differentials, and when to wildcard. You know it. We’re talking Fantasy Premier League aka FPL.So, how has a fantas...
Inside Guardiola's decision to stay at Man City
20 Nov 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Pep Guardiola has agreed to extend his contract as Manchester City manager So why has he decided to stay and will he be able to build another team to...
Are Real Madrid worse with Mbappe?
19 Nov 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Today’s focus is on Kylian Mbappe’s stuttering start to life at Real Madrid Has the big-money move made Madrid worse? Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: ...
Who are the billionaires that own Premier League clubs?
18 Nov 2024
Contributed by Lukas
This week across The Athletic we’re focusing on the people that own the 20 clubs that make up the Premier League.So who are they? How much does it c...
Is the Premier League stronger than ever?
15 Nov 2024
Contributed by Lukas
We’re eleven games into the season, today we’ll be assessing the table – and asking the question – is the quality of the Premier League the be...
Is Kane right about England dropouts?
14 Nov 2024
Contributed by Lukas
England have had nine players drop out of their squad ahead of their matches against Greece and the Republic of Ireland.Captain Harry Kane is not impr...
Are Roma Europe's most chaotic club?
13 Nov 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Roma have sacked a second manager in less than two months and are now in talks to bring former coach Claudio Ranieri out of retirement.So… can Ranie...
Is Project Messi working in the U.S.?
12 Nov 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami crashed out of the MLS Cup in the first round of the playoffs.So what now for Messi and Miami after being granted a place...
Is Angeball working at Tottenham?
11 Nov 2024
Contributed by Lukas
After another defeat Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou was quick to accept responsibility following their 2-1 home loss to Ipswich Town.So why are t...
The Preview - Liverpool vs Aston Villa
08 Nov 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Is Viktor Gyokeres ready for the Premier League?
07 Nov 2024
Contributed by Lukas
As demonstrated in the Champions League this week Viktor Gyokeres is European football's in-form striker.The Sporting striker's hat-trick against Man...
Edu's Arsenal exit
06 Nov 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Edu has resigned as Arsenal’s Sporting Director and is expected to join Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis’ portfolio of clubs.So why has...
Has Slot made Liverpool forget Alonso?
05 Nov 2024
Contributed by Lukas
While their rivals faltered around them on the weekend, Arne Slot’s machine increased their lead at the top of the Premier League.As Xabi Alonso, wh...
How significant is Man City’s defeat?
04 Nov 2024
Contributed by Lukas
So Man City suffered defeat in the Premier League for the first time this season away at Bournemouth on Saturday.Added to that, ahead of the game mana...
The Preview - Man United vs Chelsea
01 Nov 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Welcome to The Preview on The Athletic FC, where each week we go deep on the biggest game of the weekend.This week — we’re focusing on Manchester ...
Inside Amorim's move to Man United
31 Oct 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Manchester United have reached an agreement to make Ruben Amorim their head coach.So how did the deal come about and is Amorim more suited to succeed...
Real Madrid's Ballon d'Or boycott
30 Oct 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Real Madrid were expecting Vinicius Junior to win the Ballon d’Or on Monday night, but it didn’t go their way.The decision prompted Madrid to canc...
Are Chelsea lacking leaders?
29 Oct 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Things are looking good for Chelsea in the Premier League. Despite this, their manager Enzo Maresca has urged captain Reece James to show more leader...
Man United sack Ten Hag: Why now & what next?
28 Oct 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Erik ten Hag has been sacked as Manchester United manager having won just four games from 14 in all competitions at the start of this season.So, why n...
The Preview - Arsenal vs Liverpool
25 Oct 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Welcome to The Preview on The Athletic FC, where each week we go deep on the biggest game of the weekend.This week — we’re focusing on Arsenal vs ...
Are Tottenham's owners looking to sell?
24 Oct 2024
Contributed by Lukas
With Tottenham on the lookout for potential new investors this week has seen speculation intensify around the possibility of Amanda Staveley, who brok...
Has Klopp damaged his legacy by joining Red Bull?
23 Oct 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Jurgen Klopp has a new job, but it’s not in management.The former Liverpool manager begins work as Red Bull’s head of global soccer from January...
Are Flick’s Barcelona as good as they look?
22 Oct 2024
Contributed by Lukas
10 games into the La Liga season it’s Barcelona who sit top, after a convincing 5-1 demolition of Sevilla on Sunday.With Bayern Munich and Real Madr...
Will Arsenal's "silly mistakes" harm their title challenge?
21 Oct 2024
Contributed by Lukas
As Declan Rice said after Arsenal’s 2-0 defeat to Bournemouth at the weekend, the team are making "silly mistakes”.So, can Arsenal still be title ...
The Preview - Liverpool vs Chelsea
18 Oct 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Welcome to The Preview on The Athletic FC, where each week we go deep on the biggest game of the weekend.This week — we’re focusing on Liverpool v...
Is Jhon Duran the Premier League's next superstar?
17 Oct 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Jhon Duran just can't stop scoring!Another goal off the bench for Colombia during the international break makes adds to the six goals he already has f...
Why England chose Tuchel
16 Oct 2024
Contributed by Lukas
England have chosen a permanent successor to Gareth Southgate.So why has Thomas Tuchel been chosen and does he offer the best chance of winning the Wo...
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...