The Athletic FC Podcast Can Leeds, Sunderland or Burnley survive?
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Aug 14, 2025 Nick Miller, a football writer known for his insights, and Chris Weatherspoon, a finance expert in football, dive into the survival odds of Leeds, Sunderland, and Burnley in the Premier League. They highlight the unique challenges of newly promoted teams, from tactical adjustments to player acquisitions. The discussion also touches on Sunderland's financial strategies and rising optimism among fans, while assessing the fierce relegation battle dynamics. Join them for a lively analysis of hope and strategy in the fight for survival this season.
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Weaker Bottom Half Opens Opportunity
- The Premier League bottom half is weaker this season, creating more opportunity for promoted teams.
- Stronger top clubs poach talent from midtable sides, opening space in the lower tier.
Promoted Teams Have Been Non-Competitive
- Recent promoted sides were not just relegated but were often non-competitive, totaling historically low points.
- A lack of many genuine relegation candidates makes the league less entertaining.
Relegation Cycle Reinforces Elite Stability
- Repeated relegation of promoted teams lets surviving clubs strengthen across transfer windows.
- That cycle creates a set of middle-class clubs that weaken the Championship's competitiveness too.