James McNicholas

James McNicholas, an Arsenal writer for The Athletic, and Laura Williamson, Editor-in for The Athletic, dive deep into the serious charges against former midfielder Thomas Partey. They discuss the timeline of allegations and the ethical quandaries for Arsenal as a club. The guests explore the legal complexities of naming players amid investigations, comparing football's lack of structured guidelines with the NFL's disciplined conduct frameworks. The conversation also highlights the need for better handling of sensitive situations in sports and the public’s perception of media coverage.

Simon Johnson, Chelsea writer for The Athletic, and James McNicholas, Arsenal writer for The Athletic, dive into the controversial transfer of Ashley Cole from Arsenal to Chelsea in 2006. They explore why the move was deemed a betrayal and how it shook the London football scene. The duo discusses the fallout of financial struggles at Arsenal, Chelsea’s aggressive tactics, and the emotional turmoil for players and fans alike. They also reflect on Cole’s dual legacy and the long-term impacts on both clubs, highlighting the complexities of football loyalty.