The Athletic FC Podcast

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...

Should Mainoo start at the Euros?

27 Mar 2024

Contributed by Lukas

A few months ago Kobbie Mainoo had not played a minute for his club at senior level let alone his country.Now at just 18, he is one of Manchester Unit...

Is Thiago Motta the next great coach?

26 Mar 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Thiago Motta, the mastermind behind Bologna's unlikely push for a Champions League spot, is seen as one of the most impressive up-and-coming managers....

Will Endrick be football's next superstar?

25 Mar 2024

Contributed by Lukas

For anyone that didn’t know about him already, 17-year-old wonderkid Endrick introduced himself with a winner against England at Wembley on Saturda...

Can anyone stop England or France at Euro 2024?

22 Mar 2024

Contributed by Lukas

It’s just 84 days until the European Championships begin in Germany - so we are looking ahead to Euro 2024, with a particular focus on two of the fa...

Is PSR doing more harm than good?

21 Mar 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Following Nottingham Forest's four-point deduction for breaching the Premier League's Profitability and Sustainability Rules earlier this week, Ayo Ak...

How long will Newcastle's faith in Eddie Howe last?

20 Mar 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Once again Newcastle United will finish the season trophyless, and currently sit 10th in the Premier League.There have been question marks over financ...

Why doesn’t Ben White want to play for England?

19 Mar 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Last week England boss Gareth Soutgate announced that Arsenal’s Ben White does not want to play for England.So, why doesn’t one of the best player...

Can the FA Cup save Ten Hag?

18 Mar 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Following Manchester United's dramatic FA Cup Sixth Round win over Liverpool at Old Trafford The Athletic's David Ornstein and Mark Critchley join Ayo...

Weekend Preview: Can Man Utd end Liverpool’s 'quadruple' hopes?

15 Mar 2024

Contributed by Lukas

It’s matchday 29 in the Premier League & the FA Cup quarter-finals this weekend. The big meeting of the weekend sees Manchester United take on...

Should Man United knock down Old Trafford?

14 Mar 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Manchester United face Liverpool on Sunday at their iconic home Old Trafford, but the ‘Theatre of Dreams’ isn’t what it once was.Last week the c...

Can Barcelona's youngsters save the club?

13 Mar 2024

Contributed by Lukas

On Tuesday night, Barcelona made it through to the quarter-finals of the Champions League.There was a time when that would have been very much routine...

How does Chelsea's multi-club model work?

12 Mar 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Chelsea saw off Newcastle in the Premier League at Stamford Bridge, a win that eased pressure on Mauricio Pochettino…But the bigger picture is they ...

Why do Liverpool want Michael Edwards back?

11 Mar 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Only one point separates the top three in the Premier League following Liverpool and Man City drawing 1-1 at Anfield on Sunday, while Arsenal beat Bre...

Weekend Preview: Liverpool vs Man City

08 Mar 2024

Contributed by Lukas

It’s another huge weekend in the Premier League, with a pivotal matchup in the title race as Liverpool host Manchester City at Anfield.Elsewhere, As...

Klopp v Guardiola: The Premier League's greatest rivalry?

07 Mar 2024

Contributed by Lukas

This weekend sees Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool face Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City for the final time in the Premier League.Two hugely successful man...

Is Postecoglou on the right track at Spurs?

06 Mar 2024

Contributed by Lukas

With 12 games to go Spurs look like a good bet for Champions League football.So are Spurs punching above their weight or could they be even higher ha...

Do Arsenal still need to sign a striker?

05 Mar 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Last night, Arsenal swept the floor with another of the Premier League’s relegation candidates, Sheffield United.So do they need a new striker after...

Will Ten Hag ever close the gap on Man City?

04 Mar 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Manchester City eventually ran out convincing winners over Manchester United in the derby at the weekend. Yet, Erik ten Hag said afterwards that the...

Weekend Preview: Manchester Derby

01 Mar 2024

Contributed by Lukas

It’s the Manchester derby, with City hosting United at the Etihad Stadium. United will be hoping to better their 3-0 defeat in the reverse fixture.E...

How long will three-team Premier League title race last?

29 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

With 12 Premier League games to play, the top three are separated by just two points, with Liverpool, Manchester City and Arsenal all still firmly in ...

Is Haaland destined for Real Madrid?

28 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Last night, Manchester City moved a step closer to another treble, thanks to the formidable Erling Haaland.If City do win the lot - again - could h...

Does the Everton case damage the Premier League?

27 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Why has Everton’s 10-point deduction for breaching profit and sustainability rules been reduced to six points? How will the decision impact sides a...

Why Klopp's kids offer Liverpool a goldmine

26 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Following Liverpool's 10th League Cup success manager Jurgen Klopp described it as the most special achievement of his career, given the reliance he h...

Weekend Preview: Carabao Cup Final

23 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Adam Leventhal and co return to preview the weekend of top-flight football ahead, with not only Premier League points but also domestic silverware on ...

Can Palace match Glasner's ambition?

22 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Oliver Glasner has been chosen as the man to re-energise Crystal Palace after a barren run of just two wins from 16 in all competitions.The Europa Lea...

What Tuchel's Bayern exit means for Alonso race

21 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Bayern Munich and head coach Thomas Tuchel will part ways at the end of the season.Why has the announcement come now and what does it tell us?Why isn’...

How do PSG replace Mbappe?

20 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Last week Kylian Mbappe told Paris Saint Germain of his decision to leave the club at the end of the season with Real Madrid the expected destination ...

Why Man United want Dan Ashworth

19 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Man United want Dan Ashworth to be their new sporting director.He has been placed on gardening leave after informing Newcastle of his desire to leave ...