Carl Anka

In this discussion, football correspondent David Ornstein, Manchester United writer Carl Anka, and Barcelona writer Pol Ballus analyze Marcus Rashford's loan move to Barcelona. They dive into the complexities of Manchester United's transfer strategy and financial constraints. The trio also explore Rashford's fit in Barcelona's squad and the unique challenges he may face adapting to La Liga's style. Additionally, they humorously highlight the cultural shift from Manchester to Barcelona, discussing everything from lifestyle to the delights of tapas.

Join Carl Anka, a sharp football journalist, and Tim Spiers, a data-savvy writer, as they dissect the Premier League landscape seven games in. They explore Arsenal's title chances bolstered by strong defense and Victor Jochore's mixed impact. Liverpool's defensive struggles and Bournemouth's surprising top-four position spark intriguing debates. The duo evaluates Manchester City's transition, Newcastle's solid defense, and the challenges facing teams like Sunderland and Wolves, all while assessing the implications for the upcoming season.

Joined by Mark Critchley and Carl Anka, both seasoned Manchester United writers for The Athletic, this discussion delves into how the club is managing to splurge millions despite a lack of European football. They explore the financial tactics behind recent high-profile signings like Matheus Cunha, analyze the strategic challenges post-Sir Alex Ferguson, and scrutinize the evolving boardroom dynamics. The conversation balances ambition against the harsh realities of financial regulations and questions the future stability of the team's leadership.

Megan Feringa, a football journalist, and Carl Anka, Manchester United reporter for The Athletic, dive deep into the upcoming Manchester derby. They discuss the goalkeeping drama at United with the departure of Onana and the arrival of Senny Lamans. The duo analyses each team's form, injury challenges, and tactical strategies leading up to this crucial match. They also share lighthearted rivalry predictions and compare the emotional turmoil of managerial changes in Nottingham Forest to a captivating soap opera!

Andy Mitten, longtime United correspondent; Carl Anka, football writer with stats insight; Laurie Whitwell, tactical analyst. They debate whether Fulham will truly test Carrick. They dissect Fulham’s physical threat, Dorgu’s hamstring absence, left‑side fitness, defensive shape and squad leadership questions. Short, sharp conversations on tactics, replacements and looming transfer choices.

Chris Waugh, Newcastle United correspondent for The Athletic, and football writer Carl Anka delve into the brewing storm around Alexander Isak's refusal to join the pre-season tour as he eyes a move away from the club. They explore which teams might afford him and the impact of his potential departure on Newcastle's ambitions. The discussion also highlights the financial challenges facing Newcastle, analyzing their growth from relegation candidates to Champions League hopefuls, while fans express concerns over the club’s strategic direction.

Carl Anka, a football journalist known for his match analysis, and Jay Harris, a tactical football writer, dive into the intense Tottenham vs Chelsea derby. They discuss Spurs' defensive improvements and Chelsea's disciplinary woes, weighing the impact of injuries and suspensions on both teams. The duo also touches on Xavi Simons' adaptation challenges and Chelsea’s recent struggles with creativity. With tactical insights on set-pieces and psychological edges, they predict the match outcomes and explore wider Premier League implications.

Laurie Whitwell, a football journalist known for his strategic insights, Carl Anka, a senior writer focused on fan perspectives, and Andy Mitten, a seasoned United correspondent, dissect an electrifying Manchester Derby win. They delve into standout performances, with Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro shining in pivotal roles. The panel explores Michael Carrick's effective management, the players' responses to media scrutiny, and the implications for the club's future. Can this level of intensity be sustained as United aims for European football?

David Ornstein, a senior football journalist at The Athletic, and Carl Anka, a football correspondent, dive into the chaos at Chelsea and Manchester United with the swift departures of Maresca and Amorim. They discuss why elite managers still pursue high-profile jobs despite structural issues. The duo explores United's confusion over its sporting structure, potential interim options, and long-term managerial searches. Additionally, they dissect Manchester City's transfer targets like Antoine Semenyo and Marc Guéhi, alongside Arsenal's strategy for the window.

Carl Anka, a Manchester United writer for The Athletic, and football journalist Oli Kay dive into Michael Carrick's impressive start as caretaker after a victory over Manchester City. They explore whether Carrick's brief reign could signal lasting change or if history is repeating with nostalgic leanings causing potential pitfalls. The duo also highlights the impact of new signings like Marc Guehi on City and reacts to the thrilling AFCON final between Senegal and Morocco. Tune in for their insights on transformation versus tradition in football.