The Athletic FC Podcast

Crystal Palace are battling to keep their Europa League place, while Lyon have been relegated to French football’s second tier.  John Textor and his Eagle Football Group had stakes in both clubs last season. So is his multi-club ownership model to blame?  Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Matt Slater, Tom Williams and Matt WoosnamExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Guy Clarke Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 30 June 2025

Welcome to Transfers that shook the world, a summer series for The Athletic FC looking back on the moves that sparked fury and saw heroes become villains. Today we’re heading back to August 2012, when Arsenal captain Robin van Persie crossed a divide that had defined a Premier League era… So why was van Persie determined to swap the Emirates for Old Trafford - and did the move ultimately prove to be Sir Alex Ferguson’s final masterstroke at Manchester United? Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: David Ornstein, Amy Lawrence, Oli Kay & Andy MittenExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducers: Guy Clarke and Lucy OlivaSound Design: Jay Beale Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 27 June 2025

It’s still only June but Liverpool have already been busy in the transfer market, having signed both Florian Wirtz and Jeremie Frimpong and closing in on a deal for Milos Kerez. Today, we break down Arne Slot’s summer rebuild and ask is there even more to come? Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: David Ornstein and James PearceExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Guy Clarke Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 25 June 2025

Barcelona have agreed terms to sign Nico Williams - but with their ongoing financial troubles, how can they realistically afford the Athletic Bilbao winger? We also take a look at the other names on their summer wishlist, and the financial levers Barca may need to pull to make those deals happen. Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Pol Ballus, Phil Hay and Conor O'NeillExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducers: Mike Stavrou and Nick Thomson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 23 June 2025

Welcome to Transfers that shook the world, a summer series for The Athletic FC looking back on the moves that sparked fury and saw heroes become villains. Today we’re heading back to January 2011 when Chelsea broke the British transfer record to sign Liverpool’s No.9, Fernando Torres. So why was Torres’ move from Liverpool to Chelsea so controversial and was he a success at Stamford Bridge? Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Simon Hughes and Dom FifieldExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducers: Guy Clarke and Lucy OlivaSound Design: Jay Beale Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 19 June 2025

Welcome to Transfers that shook the world, a summer series for The Athletic FC looking back on the moves that sparked fury and saw heroes become villains. Today we’re heading back to January 2011 when Chelsea broke the British transfer record to sign Liverpool’s No.9, Fernando Torres. So why was Torres’ move from Liverpool to Chelsea so controversial and was he a success at Stamford Bridge? Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Simon Hughes and Dom FifieldExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducers: Guy Clarke and Lucy OlivaSound Design: Jay Beale Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 19 June 2025

Nico Williams has attracted attention from all over Europe but now looks likely to end up at either Barcelona or Bayern Munich. Matt Davies Adams is joined by The Athletic's David Ornstein and Seb Stafford-Bloor to discuss the latest on Williams, the futures of Xavi Simons and Hugo Ekitike and find out why nobody in the Premier League seems to want Victor Osimhen. Host: Matt Davies-AdamsGuests: David Ornstein, Seb Stafford-BloorExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Jay Beale Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 18 June 2025

Manchester City are back on the big stage this week, at the Club World Cup in the USA.  And, with a revamped squad and no trophies to show from last season, can Pep Guardiola’s side make a statement in the States? Host: Matt Davies-AdamsGuests: Adam Crafton, Jordan Campbell, Thom HarrisExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Jay Beale Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 16 June 2025

Gianni Infantino, FIFA president, is world football's most powerful man. His presidency has been marked by the controversial men's World Cups in Russia and Qatar, as well as the awarding of the 2034 World Cup to Saudi Arabia. But it is the newly-expanded Club World Cup that he hopes to leave as his legacy. So, who is Gianni Infantino, where did he come from, where is he taking the game, and has he fulfilled his promises? Join Adam Leventhal as he tracks Infantino's journey from son of migrants to rubbing shoulders with the world's leaders. Featuring footage from: FIFA, Sky News, ABC News, AFP, iShowSpeed, Eurosport, Channel Four, Reuters, China Global Television Network Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 13 June 2025

What happens when the best clubs in world football collide? We're about to find out in as the Club World Cup kicks off in the USA. Big names like Lionel Messi, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich will all be there. But what about the teams you don't know so well? The Athletic was granted Access All Areas to South Africa's super club: Mamelodi Sundowns, one of the four African teams taking part in the tournament. Winners of the last eight Premierships, 15 in all, Sundowns are unstoppable. So what makes up this club, what are their values and who are the names to look out for? Listen as The Athletic head to South Africa to meet the Sundowns... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 12 June 2025

There’s been a lot of noise around Arsenal’s pursuit of Martin Zubimendi, but the North London club regard the deal as done. Ayo Akinwolere is joined by David Ornstein and Duncan Alexander to discuss Arsenal's summer business including the potential arrival of Kepa Arrizabalaga and their ongoing hunt for a striker. Plus, David reveals the latest on Manchester United and Liverpool's recruitment after the mini transfer window came to a close on Tuesday night. Host: Ayo AkinwolereGuests: David Ornstein, Duncan AlexanderExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Jay Beale Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 11 June 2025

Tottenham Hotspur have sacked the manager who delivered a first trophy in 17 years. So, why have they sacked Ange Postecoglou and why do they want Thomas Frank to replace him? Host: Adam LeventhalWith: Jay Harris and Seb Stafford-BloorExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Guy Clarke Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 9 June 2025

After signing Wolves’ Matheus Cunha for £62.5million, Manchester United have made an opening bid of £55m to sign Bryan Mbuemo from Brentford. So, with no European football, how are United still drawing the big names - and are they at risk of breaching PSR after their lowest top flight league finish since 1974? Listener feedback survey: https://forms.gle/3Ecby2zfysRaTfFZ6 Host: Adam LeventhalWith: Carl Anka, Mark Critchley, Conor O'NeillExecutive Producers: Adey Moorhead & Guy ClarkeProducer: Jay Beale Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 6 June 2025

The transfer window is open and Liverpool are after one European football’s brightest talents as they look to complete a deal for Bayer Leverkusen's Florian Wirtz. And it’s not just the champions who are active, Man City are making moves of their own with a fee agreed for AC Milan's Tijjani Reijnders is on his way, who will be next? Listener feedback survey: https://forms.gle/3Ecby2zfysRaTfFZ6 Host: Adam LeventhalWith: David Ornstein, Phil Hay and James PearceExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Guy Clarke Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 4 June 2025

PSG have finally got their hands on the Champions League trophy after beating Inter 5-0 in the final in Munich on Saturday night. So, how did they do it and are they set to dominate European football? Listener feedback survey: https://forms.gle/3Ecby2zfysRaTfFZ6 Host: Adam LeventhalWith: James Horncastle, Adam Crafton and Liam TharmeExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Guy Clarke Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 2 June 2025

On Saturday, PSG will face Inter in the 24/25 Champions League final in Munich.  It will be the meeting of the oldest versus the youngest team from the knockout stage, will experience or youthful exuberance prevail? The Athletic’s Italian football correspondent James Horncastle and French football specialist Tom Williams join Ayo Akinwolere to preview the game. Can Luis Enrique’s decision to ditch the ‘superstars’ and change the culture at PSG be validated with the clubs first Champions League trophy or will Inter and Inzaghi achieve the respect they have perhaps deserved more of over the last few years?  Host: Ayo AkinwolereGuests: James Horncastle, Tom WilliamsExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Jay Beale Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 30 May 2025

Chelsea have won a trophy and have Champions League football next season. So, has Enzo Maresca proven the doubters wrong? Listener feedback survey: https://forms.gle/3Ecby2zfysRaTfFZ6 Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Simon Johnson and Tomas Hill Lopez-MencheroExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Guy Clarke Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 29 May 2025

Sunderland are back in the Premier League after eight years away. So how did a club who were in League One three years ago make their way back to the top table? And crucially, can they stay there? Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Phil Hay, Chris Weatherspoon, Leo PearlmanExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Mike Stavrou & John Rogers Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 28 May 2025

Napoli won a second Scudetto in three years as a dramatic Serie A title race went down to the final day. So how did Antonio Conte’s side get the better of Champions League finalists Inter, despite losing their two best players? And what part did former Manchester United midfielder Scott McTominay play in the title triumph?  Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: James HorncastleExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Mike Stavrou and Nick Thomson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 27 May 2025

Aston Villa narrowly missed out on a crucial top-five finish in the Premier League—falling short after a moment of controversy at Old Trafford. So, why couldn’t Unai Emery’s side get over the line this season? And what does failing to qualify for the Champions League mean for Villa’s summer transfer ambitions? Host Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Jacob Tanswell and Villa expert Dan Bardell to unpack the highs, lows, and looming decisions facing the club this summer. Host: Ayo AkinwolereGuests: Jacob Tanswell, Dan BardellExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducers: Nick Thomson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 26 May 2025

On 25 May 2025, Liverpool will receive their 20th top flight crown, equaling the record set by Manchester United. This season's victory will be defined by Mohamed Salah's goals, Arne Slot's career-defining debut, and the measured manner with which the Reds marched on. But five years ago, when Liverpool last won English football's most prestigious trophy for the first time in 30 years, this was not the scene. Simon Hughes has spoken to families in Liverpool to find out how this title sits five years on from the Covid-19 pandemic. You'll hear the story of the content creator who feels a disconnect with Anfield now. The former steward who never got to savour a title win. And the Hillsborough survivor for whom the Atletico match was his last. Please note this episode includes strong language, and content some listeners may find upsetting Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 25 May 2025

Welcome to The Athletic’s end-of-season awards, for the 2024-25 season. A time to celebrate the best of the best across the Premier League, WSL and Europe. The Athletic's Data & Tactic’s Editor Duncan Alexander, Women’s Football Writer Megan Feringa & Football Writer Jacob Whitehead join Adam Leventhal to name our Player, Young Player, Manager and team of the season in our respective categories.   Host: Adam LeventhalWith: Duncan Alexander, Megan Feringa, Jacob WhiteheadExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Jay Beale Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 23 May 2025

Tottenham Hotspur got the job done in Bilbao with Brennan Johnson scoring the only goal in the Europa League Final win over Manchester United. So what does the trophy mean for Spurs & Postecoglou and where does defeat leave Ruben Amorim & Manchester United? Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Jack Pitt-Brooke and Laurie WhitwellExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Guy Clarke Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 22 May 2025

Tonight - Spurs or Manchester United will be crowned Europa League champions So… will it be Ange Postecoglou or Ruben Amorim that rescues a disastrous season?  Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic’s Spurs writer Jay Harris and Manchester United writer Carl Anka. We also hear from The Athletic’s Jack Pitt-Brooke & Laurie Whitwell who attended the press conferences of Postecoglou and Amorim ahead of the pivotal game. Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Jay Harris & Carl AnkaExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Mike Stavrou & John Rogers Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 21 May 2025

Spurs’ Europa League run has been the shining light in an otherwise disappointing season. They have a chance to end a 17-year wait for a major trophy on Wednesday night.  So what would it mean for the club and manager Ange Postecoglou if they win the Europa League? Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Danny Kelly & Phil HayExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Mike Stavrou and Nick Thomson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 20 May 2025

This week, it’s all eyes on Bilbao as Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur meet in the Europa League final. Today, we’re focusing on Ruben Amorim’s side and asking what would success mean for Manchester United? Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Laurie Whitwell and Mark CritchleyExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Guy Clarke Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 19 May 2025

On 18th May 2025, Everton will play their final Premier League game at Goodison Park against Southampton. For the men’s team, it will no longer be their home. In this special episode allow yourself to be transported to the stadium, as The Athletic FC captures the iconic sound that only Goodison could bring. You will hear from fans about their memories of the stadium, what it will mean to move on from the place they have called home for 133 years, and a surprising amount of love for the restricted view. So sit back and relax, and join us at Everton Football Club… Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 17 May 2025

Crystal Palace have the chance to win their first major trophy on Saturday as they face Manchester City in the FA Cup Final. So how has Oliver Glasner transformed Palace and would silverware take the Eagles to the next level?  Host: Matt Davies-AdamsWith: Matt Woosnam, Reuben Pinder, Sam LeeExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Jay Beale Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 16 May 2025

Harry Kane’s trophy drought is over having helped Bayern Munich to the Bundesliga in his second season in Germany. But is one Bundesliga trophy enough for the England captain - and is silverware the only marker of success? Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Seb Stafford-Bloor and Art De RocheExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Guy Clarke Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 15 May 2025

On Sunday afternoon Trent Alexander-Arnold was booed at Anfield.  So why do supporters boo their own players and is it ever acceptable? Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: James Pearce, Oli Kay, Carl AnkaFeaturing: Art de Roché, Simon Johnson, Chris WaughExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducers: Guy Clarke and Jay Beale Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 14 May 2025

Brentford’s dynamic duo Bryan Mbeumo and Yoane Wissa have lit up the Premier League once again this season. But with Thomas Frank admitting Mbeumo could be sold this summer - what does the future hold for him and strike partner Wissa? Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Jay Harris & Liam TharmeExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 13 May 2025

Real Madrid are in chaos following the latest El Clasico, throwing away at 2-0 lead before falling to a 4-3 defeat. Knocked out of the Champions League and defeat to Barcelona makes another league title unlikely. So where has it all gone wrong for Real Madrid and is Xabi Alonso the man to fix them?  Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Dermot Corrigan, Guillermo Rai and Seb Stafford-BloorExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Guy Clarke Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 12 May 2025

On Thursday night both Manchester United and Spurs got the job done in the Europa League to book their place in Bilbao. One of them will be the Champions League next season - but who will be joining them via the Premier League? This weekend's standout fixture comes at St. James' Park as Newcastle United welcome Chelsea in a meeting of 4th v 5th. Host: Adam LeventhalWith: Tim Spiers and Oliver KayExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducers: Guy Clarke and John Rogers Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 9 May 2025

Arsenal’s European journey is over after losing 3-1 on aggregate to Paris Saint-Germain. So where does this leave Mikel Arteta’s process and why can’t Arsenal get over the line? Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Art De Roche, Phil Hay and Liam TharmeExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Guy Clarke Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 8 May 2025

Inter are through to the Champions League final after a breathtaking semi-final against Barcelona. So where does that rank among the best knockout matches in the competition's history? And are Inter favourites to lift the trophy now? Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Pol Ballus & Max CallegariExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Mike Stavrou  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 7 May 2025

Manchester City have had a disappointing season compared to their usually high standards.But the summer window offers Pep Guardiola the chance to rebuild.So which players are they targeting?And will it be enough for them to be Premier League contenders once again?Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Sam Lee & Phil HayExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Mike Stavrou and Nick Thomson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transcribed - Published: 6 May 2025

Trent Alexander-Arnold is leaving Liverpool. So why has he decided to leave on a free transfer? And with Real Madrid the likely destination, what makes them a better option? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: James Pearce, Mario Cortegana and Tomas Hill Lopez-Menchero Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 5 May 2025

Manchester United and Tottenham’s hopes of Champions League football next season are well and truly alive after comprehensive victories in their Europa League semi-final first legs. While Nottingham Forest’s dreams of qualifying for Europe’s elite competition via the Premier League have been dented, after losing 2-0 at home to Brentford. Adam Leventhal is joined by The Athletic's Manchester United correspondent Carl Anka, Spurs correspondent Jack Pitt-Brooke and football writer Tim Spiers to reflect on Thursday night's action and what it means for the clubs chasing European football. Host: Adam Leventhal With: Carl Anka, Jack Pitt-Brooke, Tim Spiers Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 2 May 2025

Wrexham are now just one step away from the Premier League having now achieved three successive promotions from National League to Championship. How have they managed to climb so quickly and when can we expect to see them in the top flight? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Richard Sutcliffe, Matt Slater and Felipe Cardenas Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 1 May 2025

Arsenal have it all to do in Paris after a 1-0 defeat in the first leg of their Champions League semi-final tie. So how did Luis Enrique’s PSG get the better of the Gunners? And can Arsenal stage a comeback in the second leg? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Art de Roché & Stuart James Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 30 April 2025

The Champions League semi-finals get underway tonight as Arsenal welcome PSG to the Emirates Stadium. The winner of that tie faces either Barcelona or Inter in the final. So how are the four teams shaping up, and who are the favourites to win it? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Max Callegari, Tomas Hill-Lopez Menchero, Tom Williams, Jordan Campbell Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou and Nick Thomson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 29 April 2025

Liverpool are Premier League champions after securing their second title in five years at home to Tottenham Hotspur, their first in front of supporters since 1990. So how has Arne Slot done it and what needs to be done for Liverpool to stay at the top next season? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: James Pearce, Andy Jones and David Ornstein Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 28 April 2025

With the NFL Draft looming large this weekend, we decided to take a spin on the format and bring it into the world of the Premier League.  What would it look like if we held an All-Time Premier League Draft? Which legends go first and can anyone build the perfect squad? Host: Duncan Alexander With: Jacob Whitehead, Oli Kay, and Jack Lang Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou & Liam Warburton Premier League Draft article: https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6301841/2025/04/24/premier-league-draft/  Teams: Jacob: Cech, Azpilicueta, Van Dijk, Kompany, Baines, Rodri, Lampard, Silva, Salah, Rooney, Giggs Jack: Alisson, Walker, Ferdinand, Campbell, Irwin, Kante, Fabregas, De Bruyne, Hazard, Shearer, Henry Duncan: Ederson, Ferreira, Adams, Vidic, Robertson, Keane, Toure, Beckham, Bergkamp, Aguero, Suarez Oli: Schmeichel, Alexander-Arnold, Carvalho, Terry, Cole, Vieira, Gerrard, Scholes, Ronaldo, Kane, Bale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 27 April 2025

West Ham sit 17th as they prepare to face Brighton this weekend.  So how have they ended up in this position, and how much is it down to the approach of manager Graham Potter?  Host: Adam Leventhal With: Roshane Thomas, Liam Tharme Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 25 April 2025

At just 20 years old and with only 22 Premier League starts, Dean Huijsen is attracting interest from the likes of Liverpool, Arsenal, Chelsea and Real Madrid.  So what makes him so special, and  who might trigger his £50m release clause? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by senior data analyst Mark Carey and lead writer for The Athletic FC newsletter Phil Hay to discuss the Spanish international. Football correspondent David Ornstein as well as James Pearce, Liam Twomey and Guillermo Rai also drop by with their insights to the level of interest held in Huijsen across the Premier League and beyond with the Bournemouth defender set to have his pick of a number of clubs this summer. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Mark Carey and Phil Hay Contributions: David Ornstein, James Pearce, Liam Twomey and Guillermo Rai Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 24 April 2025

After their Champions League exit, Carlo Ancelotti is expected to leave Real Madrid this summer So… when will it happen?  And is Xabi Alonso the inevitable replacement?   Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Guillermo Rai & Tomas Hill Lopez-Menchero Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou & John Rogers Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 23 April 2025

On Monday, Leeds United reclaimed their seat at the top table after two years in the Championship So, what lessons can they learn from their Premier League relegation last time out? And how can they stay up for the long haul this time? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Phil Hay, Beren Cross Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou & Nick Thomson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 22 April 2025

They left it late, but Chelsea grabbed a crucial win in their bid to secure a top five finish, as Tyrique George and Pedro Neto saw the Blues come from behind to win 2-1 at Fulham. Victory at Craven Cottage keeps them in the mix for a return to European football’s elite competition next season. But with fan discontent growing, how important is Champions League qualification for Enzo Maresca’s Chelsea future? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Chelsea correspondent Liam Twomey to discuss the importance of the win as well as our football correspondent David Ornstein to analyse the pressure on Maresca and look ahead to the summer transfer window. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Liam Twomey and David Ornstein Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 21 April 2025

There are six games to go in the Premier League, so we’re focusing on the race for Champions League football as Aston Villa take on Newcastle United, while Manchester United and Spurs kept their dreams of qualifying for next season’s competition alive with victories in the Europa League. Mark Critchley joins us to talk about a ridiculous night at Old Trafford that saw Ruben Amorim's side score two goals in injury time of extra time, to beat Lyon 5-4 on the night and 7-6 on aggregate. We hear from Jay Harris who was in Frankfurt where a Dominic Solanke penalty saw Spurs win 1-0, so Ange Postecoglou isn't going anywhere quite yet. The Athletic's Newcastle writer Chris Waugh and Aston Villa writer Jacob Tanswell are with us to preview their respective side's clash at Villa Park on Saturday evening, in what could be a pivotal game in the race for Champions League football. Host: Matt Davies-Adams With: Chris Waugh, Jacob Tanswell, Mark Critchley, Jay Harris Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 18 April 2025

Arsenal are through to the semi-finals of the Champions League for only the third time in their history - and they had to beat the holders to do it. So how far does that 5-1 win on aggregate propel Mikel Arteta’s project forward?  And crucially, can they now go all the way in the Champions League? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Art de Roche, Guillermo Rai, Charlie Eccleshare Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou & John Rogers Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 17 April 2025