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The Athletic FC Podcast

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What Sesko staying means for Arsenal & Barcelona transfer plans

Welcome to another edition of The Transfer DealSheet, our guide to the summer transfer market where David Ornstein will bring us latest developments across the Premier League and beyond. We take a deep dive on the market in Spain, including Barcelona's admiration for Liverpool's Luis Diaz. Plus, after securing Kylian Mbappe, what’s holding up Real Madrid’s pursuit of Alphonso Davies Host: Adam Leventhal With: David Ornstein, Dermot Corrigan, Pol Ballus Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Jay Beale Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Radar: Florian Wirtz

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 and coming talents who look set to star at this summer’s European Championships and Copa América. 21-year-old Florian Wirtz has taken German football by storm since his emergence at Bayer Leverkusen back in 2020. A superstar in their extraordinary unbeaten run to Bundesliga glory - will he also help inspire the hosts to European success in his own backyard? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Radar: Johan Bakayoko

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 and coming talents who look set to star at this summer’s European Championships and Copa América. 21-year-old forward Johan Bakayoko has made a name for himself in a bold, attacking PSV Eindhoven team which fits his skill set perfectly. One of the most watchable young players in Europe at the moment - will the Belgian light up this tournament and put him in the shop window for a lucrative transfer to the Premier League or beyond? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Radar: Kendry Páez

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 and coming talents who look set to star at this summer’s European Championships and Copa América. Kendry Páez has been making quite the mark for club and country since he burst onto the youth football scene in 2022. He became the youngest player ever to represent Ecuador - and the second youngest South American to ever play international football behind a certain Diego Maradona. With a highly-anticipated move to Chelsea on the horizon - could he be the player that sets this summer’s Copa América alight? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Radar: Xavi Simons

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 and coming talents who look set to star at this summer’s European Championships and Copa América. 21-year-old child prodigy Xavi Simons is at a crossroads in his career after making the high profile switch from Barcelona to PSG. Standout loan spells at PSV and RB Leipzig over the last two seasons have got everyone asking what Xavi’s next move will be - but first, will he showcase his star quality out in Germany? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Radar: Yáser Asprilla

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 and coming talents who look set to star at this summer’s European Championships and Copa América. 20-year-old all-action Watford midfielder Yáser Asprilla has made it his business to score absolute screamers for the Hornets since arriving at Vicarage Road in 2022. Following in the footsteps of the Colombian great James Rodríguez isn’t going to be easy - but could he be about to explode onto the international stage? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Radar: Benjamin Šeško

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 and coming talents who look set to star at this summer’s European Championships and Copa América. RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Šeško has long been touted as one of the next great strikers - linked with some of the world’s biggest clubs and hype around him reaching fever pitch ahead of a potential move this summer… Slovenia may not be anyone’s favourites to cause a shock at Euro 2024 - but could their centre forward make his mark and show why he’s considered one of the purest number 9’s in the world? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Radar: Marcelo Flores

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 and coming talents who look set to star at this summer’s European Championships and Copa América. 20-year-old midfielder Marcelo Flores began his footballing education at Ipswich Town and Arsenal - but has a point to prove after failing to make a real breakthrough in his time at The Emirates. Now back in Mexico and coming off the back of a successful domestic campaign with Tigres - can his youthful exuberance see him live up to the billing as his country's most exciting prospect? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Radar: João Neves

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 and coming talents who look set to star at this summer’s European Championships and Copa América. 19-year-old Benfica midfielder João Neves has followed in the footsteps of Bernardo Silva, Darwin Núñez, João Félix and Rúben Dias to come through the Portuguese Champions’ academy. Quick, agile and technically gifted with formidable tackling ability, stamina and composure - will this summer’s Euros be the stage upon which he really announces himself to the world? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Radar: Folarin Balogun

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 and coming talents who look set to star at this summer’s European Championships and Copa América. 22-year-old USA international Folarin Balogun’s every move has been watched with intrigue since his permanent move from Arsenal to Monaco. After a somewhat difficult start to life on the Côte d'Azur - will he make the number 9 jersey his own this summer prove his worth to the US men’s national team on home soil? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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The Radar: Warren Zaïre-Emery

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 and coming talents who look set to star at this summer’s European Championships and Copa América. Paris Saint Germain’s Warren Zaïre-Emery has had a meteoric rise since rewriting the record books when he became the club’s youngest player and goalscorer when he was just 16 years old. Now 18 and already regarded as one of the most technically gifted midfielders in the world - could he be the next face of French football for years to come? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Olise, Sesko, Gallagher: Summer transfers to watch

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 is your club likely to do this summer? Which big players could be on the move? How restricted will Premier League clubs be by PSR? And what impact could this - and the summer tournaments - have on the market? Host: Adam Leventhal With: David Ornstein Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Radar: Endrick

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 and coming talents who look set to star at this summer’s European Championships and Copa América. 17-year-old Endrick burst onto the international scene with goals against England and Spain and will join Real Madrid after playing a potentially pivotal role for Brazil out in the USA. He’s already been compared to legendary strikers Ronaldo, Pelé and Romário - but does he really have what it takes to follow in their illustrious footsteps? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Radar: Lamine Yamal

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 and coming talents who look set to star at this summer’s European Championships and Copa América. Prodigal 16-year-old Lamine Yamal has already broken a number of records for Barcelona and Spain in his short career so far. Will the precocious attacker cement his status as one of the most talented young footballers in the world out in Germany? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why Bayern chose Kompany

After a three month search, Bayern Munich have finally secured a new head coach having appointed former Burnley manager Vincent Kompany. So why have Bayern chosen Kompany? How influential were his links to Pep Guardiola in their decision and how will the Belgian adapt to life in Bavaria after Burnley? Adam Leventhal is joined by The Athletic's Seb Stafford-Bloor and Andy Jones to analyse how the move came about and whether the Belgian will be a success in Munich. Host: Adam Leventhal With: Seb Stafford-Bloor and Andy Jones Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Related articles: Bayern Munich, Vincent Kompany and the summer’s strangest managerial appointment - The Athletic Why do Bayern Munich want Vincent Kompany? - The Athletic Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

35:28May 30FeatureListen
Inside Pochettino’s Chelsea exit

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 led his side to a sixth place finish in the Premier League, but the upturn in form wasn’t enough. So, why did the Pochettino project fail, and who will Chelsea turn to next? Host: Adam Leventhal With: Simon Johnson, Jack Pitt-Brooke Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producers: Mike Stavrou & Jay Beale Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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

Manchester City have created English football history by winning a fourth consecutive top flight title. But do Pep Guardiola’s side get the recognition their achievements deserve? Does future dominance depend on how long the manager stays and is the whole debate overshadowed by the 115 charges they face for alleged breaches of Premier League financial regulations? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by Man City writer Sam Lee, senior football writer Oli Kay and Manchester football writer Mark Critchley to discuss. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Sam Lee, Oli Kay and Mark Critchley Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Related articles: Inside Manchester City’s history-making fourth Premier League title in a row - The Athletic Manchester City’s wonderful team and the 115 charges – can the two be separated? - The Athletic Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Premier League last day and race for Europe

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. The race for Europe involves the following matches: Sheffield United vs Spurs, Chelsea vs Bournemouth, Brentford vs Newcastle and Brighton vs Manchester United. Host: Adam Leventhal With: Tim Spiers and Jon Mackenzie Producer: Mike Stavrou Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What made Postecoglou so angry?

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’ better performances in recent months? And was he right to be so angry? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic’s Tottenham writers Charlie Eccleshare & Jack Pitt-Brooke who are also on our Spurs pod View From The Lane.. Producer Guy Clarke Executive Producer Adey Moorhead Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Can Glasner's resurgent Palace keep Olise and Eze?

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 remarkable job Glasner has done since succeeding Roy Hodgson just three months ago. The Austrian coach has taken Palace to safety in style - but the big question is: can the club keep hold of their star players and their manager this summer? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Matt Woosnam and Dominic Fifield Producer: Mike Stavrou Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

36:39May 15OtherListen
Would Man United & Newcastle really want the Conference League?

Newcastle United face Manchester United on Wednesday with both clubs competing for a place in Europe next season. But is the increased strain on squads that comes with qualifying for UEFA’s lesser competitions actually worth it? Or would a season out of Europe allow both sides to regroup and build again? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Carl Anka and George Caulkin Producer: Mike Stavrou Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Will Arsenal's process win a title?

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 complete the job and win the league for the first time in 20 years, despite Man City still having the title in their hands? If they fall short, does anything need to change next season and how long without delivering a league title can Arsenal trust the process? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's football correspondent David Ornstein and Arsenal writer Jordan Campbell to analyse how Mikel Arteta has managed to build his side to this point as well as look ahead to what their next steps could look like. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: David Ornstein and Jordan Campbell Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Related articles Arsenal marry progress and history with another 1-0 win at Old Trafford - The Athletic Mikel Arteta hails Arsenal for opening ‘box of dreams’ on possible Premier League title - The Athletic Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Can Arsenal break Old Trafford curse?

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 host City and Nottingham Forest go up against Chelsea. Host: Adam Leventhal With: Tim Spiers and Jon Mackenzie Producer: Mike Stavrou Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Will Chelsea keep Pochettino next season?

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 turned a corner under Mauricio Pochettino? And has he done enough to still be in charge next season? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Simon Johnson & Liam Twomey Producers: Guy Clarke & Jay Beale Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why can’t Bayern Munich find a manager?

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 yet to find a replacement. Xabi Alonso, Julian Nagelsmann, Unai Emery and now Ralf Rangnick have opted to stay at their current jobs rather than join the German club. So why are Bayern struggling to fill their managerial vacancy? And who could they turn to next? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Jan Åge Fjørtoft and Seb Stafford-Bloor Producer: Mike Stavrou Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

27:32May 8FeatureListen
Why does Lopetegui want West Ham?

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’ successor, it seems the Hammers have landed on Julen Lopetegui. So… why have West Ham chosen the former Spain, Real Madrid and Wolves manager over other candidates? And for Lopetegui himself - what is it about the project that has made him turn down the allure of Bayern Munich? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: David Ornstein and Tim Spiers Producer: Mike Stavrou Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

30:30May 7OtherListen
Can anyone stop Real Madrid?

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 they do it, why was this title not as easy as it looked and can anyone stop Real Madrid being European football’s dominant force? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Madrid-based writer Dermot Corrigan and Junior Spanish Editor Tomas Hill Lopez-Menchero to analyse how Carlo Ancelotti's side have managed to write their own page in Madrid's illustrious history. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Dermot Corrigan and Tomas Hill Lopez-Menchero Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Related articles: How Real Madrid won La Liga – artful Ancelotti, brilliant Bellingham and unlikely new heroes - The Athletic Real Madrid’s ‘dystopian’ dominance – Barcelona and La Liga rivals are way behind - The Athletic Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Will Arsenal or City slip up in the title race?

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. Elsewhere, in the relegation battle, it’s Luton vs Everton, Burnley vs Newcastle and Sheffield United vs Nottingham Forest. Host: Adam Leventhal With: Tim Spiers, Andy Jones and Jordan Campbell Producer: Mike Stavrou Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

New Premier League financial rules explained

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 earning side in the top flight. Why do some clubs want more financial regulation? Who is pushing back against it? And could this end up with legal action? The Athletic's senior football news reporter Matt Slater joins Ayo Akinwolere to explain the concept of 'anchoring' as well as answering questions submitted by subscribers to The Athletic over the Premier League's proposed new spending controls. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Matt Slater Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Inside Xavi's bizarre Barcelona U-turn

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 “wears you down”. But last week, he and Barca changed their minds - yet another twist in a rollercoaster season for the Catalans. So, why did Barca perform a dramatic U-turn on Xavi’s future? How strong is his position now? And can Xavi be backed in this summer’s transfer market to the level he now expects? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Pol Ballús and Tomás Hill López-Menchero Producer: Mike Stavrou Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

27:26May 1OtherListen
Salah set to stay at Liverpool - but for how long?

Mohamed Salah’s heated exchange with Jurgen Klopp last weekend left many questioning whether the forward would join his manager in leaving Liverpool this summer. Then as The Athletic revealed on Monday, Liverpool expect Salah to stay this summer and are planning on him being part of their squad for next season. So, with his future back on the agenda, what are Liverpool’s options with or without their iconic forward? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: David Ornstein and James Pearce Producer: Mike Stavrou Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

27:47Apr 30OtherListen
Can Project Postecoglou make Spurs contenders?

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, Spurs boss Ange Postecoglou said his team needs to deal with the “details” to be contenders. So what exactly are the fine margins they are missing? And will it be enough to get to the next step and challenge next season? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Jack Pitt-Brooke and Seb Stafford-Bloor Producer: Guy Clarke Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

29:52Apr 29RecapListen
Can Spurs halt Arsenal's title charge?

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 City go to Nottingham Forest and West Ham host Liverpool. Host: Adam Leventhal With: Tim Spiers, Charlie Eccleshare and Jay Harris Producer: Mike Stavrou Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is Slot the right man for Liverpool?

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 do Liverpool want Feyenoord’s Arne Slot? And is he the right personality to replace Klopp at Anfield? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: David Ornstein and Adam Crafton Producer: Guy Clarke Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

39:31Apr 25PodcastListen
Inzaghi and Inter: What next?

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 abroad. But is he better off staying in Italy and a resurgent Serie A? Or does uncertainty around finance and the ownership at Inter mean now is the time for a new challenge? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: James Horncastle Producer: Mike Stavrou Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why Man United's Wembley embarrassment runs deep

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. Seeing his boyhood side reach a second successive FA Cup Final was only have the story though as Erik Ten Hag's side almost squandered a 3-0 lead to be dumped out by Coventry City. So will success in the FA Cup show enough progress for Ten Hag to remain in position, or do United's problems run deeper than just their manager? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Carl Anka and Mark Critchley who were both at Wembley to discuss. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Carl Anka and Mark Critchley Producer: Guy Clarke Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Related articles Manchester United’s semi-final win was no turning point for Ten Hag – it was a tipping point - The Athletic If Manchester United move on from Ten Hag, who does the data say they should target? - The Athletic Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Can Palmer haunt City again?

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 Chelsea face Man City and Manchester United go up against Coventry City. Host: Adam Leventhal With: Tim Spiers and Liam Twomey Producer: Mike Stavrou Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How ruthless can Arsenal be this summer?

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 Arteta was left lost for words in how to console his side, while they also remain in the Premier League title race. So how can the Spaniard ensure the Gunners season doesn't peter out, how ruthless can they be in this summer's transfer window - or should Arteta be able to get more from the squad already at his disposal? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's David Ornstein and Art de Roche to discuss and analyse how different Arsenal could look the other side of the summer transfer window. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: David Ornstein and Art de Roche Producer: Guy Clarke Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Related articles: Arsenal’s progress this season will be undermined if their title challenge fizzles out - The Athletic Arsenal are evolving at a pace that could leave Zinchenko, Jesus and others behind - The Athletic Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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

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 stop competitive games being taken abroad. So, could we one day see the Premier League or La Liga decided in the USA? Or the UEFA Champions League final in Saudi Arabia? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Matt Slater and Adam Crafton. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Matt Slater and Adam Crafton Producer: Mike Stavrou Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why Leverkusen's title is just the beginning

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 potential treble and the chance to go the entire season unbeaten. But is Xabi Alonso staying enough to keep his squad together next season? Is it still even possible for this team to go to the next level and break into Europe's elite? Or, is this as good as it gets for Leverkusen? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Raphael Honigstein, Seb Stafford-Bloor Producer: Mike Stavrou Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

36:26Apr 16PodcastListen
Why is Klopp's Liverpool farewell faltering?

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 hopes of a second Premier League title and they have a mountain to climb in the Europa League, trailing Atalanta 3-0. So why are Liverpool faltering at the business end of the season? And can they still turn it round? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Oli Kay and James Pearce to assess and analyse where things have gone wrong for Jurgen Klopp's side having gone from potential quadruple winners to seeing his reign possibly end with a whimper. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: James Pearce and Oli Kay Producer: Guy Clarke Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Related articles: The 10 misses that might have ended Liverpool’s Premier League title bid - The Athletic Liverpool’s failure to keep clean sheets is proving deeply damaging - The Athletic Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Can Villa rattle Arsenal again?

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 Newcastle and Chelsea play Everton. Host: Adam Leventhal With: Jon Mackenzie, Art de Roché & Tim Spiers Producer: Mike Stavrou and Jay Beale Executive Producer: Adam Jones Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is PSG’s Galacticos era over?

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 League quarter final first leg. So why did Kylian Mbappe struggle to impact the kind of game he’s been renowned for owning in previous years and is he at risk of seeing his PSG career end with a whimper? As for Enrique, is he the man to finally push the Parisians over the line to become a serious contender in years to come? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Peter Rutzler as well as Pierre-Etienne Minonzio of L'Equipe. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Peter Rutzler and Pierre-Etienne Minonzio Producer: Guy Clarke Executive Producer: Adam Jones Related articles: Mbappe surely cannot bow out so quietly in Barcelona - The Athletic How Paris Saint-Germain made Ousmane Dembele ‘extraordinary’ again - The Athletic Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Will Diego Simeone ever leave Atletico Madrid?

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 unbelievable highs and crushing lows. This season - Atletico are on course for their worst finish in La Liga since Simeone’s first year in charge, but could another Champions League run galvanize his team once again? And with plenty of big clubs looking for ,managers this summer, why isn’t his name mentioned in the conversations anymore? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Dermot Corrigan & Tomás Hill López-Menchero. HOST: Ayo Akinwolere WITH: Dermot Corrigan & Tomás Hill López-Menchero PRODUCER: Mike Stavrou EXECUTIVE PRODUCER: Adam Jones Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is Arteta building a dynasty at Arsenal?

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 opportunity to make a serious statement in Europe, how has Arteta revived this Arsenal side? And with Jurgen Klopp leaving and Pep Guardiola’s long-term Manchester City future uncertain, is he ready to build a dynasty in north London? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Jordan Campbell, Art de Roché, Amy Lawrence Producer: Jay Beale Executive Producer: Adam Jones Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Should Man United persist with Ten Hag next season?

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 emerged with a point, but was that through luck or design? So has Erik Ten Hag done enough to convince INEOS he’s worth persisting with into next season? And with so much change coming behind the scenes over the summer…can Man United turn chaos into control? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Adam Crafton and Mark Critchley to discuss and debate the Dutchman's future. HOST: Ayo Akinwolere WITH: Adam Crafton and Mark Critchley PRODUCER: Guy Clarke EXECUTIVE PRODUCER: Adam Jones Related articles: Baffling, beguiling and bewildering: trying to explain this Manchester United - The Athletic Ten Hag’s Manchester United future: Open to operating as head coach, Murtough to leave - The Athletic Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Weekend Preview: Can chaotic Man United beat Liverpool again?

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, Burnley go to Everton and Luton play Bournemouth. Host: Adam Leventhal With: Jon Mackenzie, Mark Critchley and Andy Jones Producer: Mike Stavrou and Jay Beale Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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

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 have shown this season, despite the money in brings in, qualifying for Europe puts a huge strain on smaller squads especially when financial rules make it harder to spend. And as Ange Postecoglou commented in the week, Champions League qualification doesn't necessarily provide what clubs are seeking, if they're unable to push on and compete. Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Tottenham writer Jack Pitt-Brooke, Aston Villa writer Jacob Tanswell and Newcastle United writer Chris Waugh to discuss how the Premier League's growing collection of upwardly ambitious clubs sustained continued Champions League qualification amid the backdrop of strict financial spending limits. HOST: Ayo Akinwolere WITH: Jack Pitt-Brooke, Jacob Tanswell and Chris Waugh PRODUCER: Guy Clarke EXECUTIVE PRODUCER: Adey Moorhead Related articles: Unai Emery is all about planning – there was a point to Villa’s ‘practice’ and chaos - The Athletic Beyonce, NFL and boxing help make Tottenham Hotspur Stadium a cash machine - The Athletic Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Could De Zerbi or Frank manage at the very top?

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 approach behind the scenes, but how do their sought after coaches compare, and who is the most likely to fill a managerial vacancy elsewhere this summer? And what are the reasons for the long running feud between the owners of the two clubs dating back to 2004? Produced by Jay Beale Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How do Chelsea turn turmoil into triumph?

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 among the fans, a billion pound squad yet to gel, and growing pressure on the manager. So can Chelsea salvage something from their remaining games? And after all the instability this season will there be another summer of sweeping change? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic’s Tim Spiers and our Chelsea writer Liam Twomey, who is also part of another podcast on this network: Straight Outta Cobham. Produced by Mike Stavrou Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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