Rory Smith

David Ornstein, a renowned football correspondent at The Athletic, and Rory Smith, a senior writer, delve into the latest transfer dynamics in football. They break down Marcus Rashford's surprising loan to Aston Villa and Manchester City's tactical signing of Nico Gonzalez amid midfield issues. The duo discusses the cautious strategies clubs adopt during the January window and the intricate financial risks, particularly for teams like Aston Villa aiming for Champions League qualification. Their insights reveal the fascinating chess game of player transfers and club ambitions.

Mark Clattenburg, a former Premier League and FIFA referee hailed for his remarkable officiating at top-tier finals, joins Rory Smith, senior football writer at The Athletic, for a deep dive into the challenges of refereeing. They discuss the evolution of officiating amidst heightened scrutiny, the psychological toll of fan conspiracies, and the impact of VAR. Clattenburg reflects on his time at Nottingham Forest and the cultural complexities of officiating, highlighting how conspiracy theories influence public perception and the integrity of the sport.

Jacob Tanswell, Aston Villa correspondent for The Athletic, joins Rory Smith, a senior writer, to unpack the aftermath of Aston Villa's heavy loss against Crystal Palace. They delve into the underwhelming performances of marquee signings Marcus Rashford and Marco Asensio, questioning their impact on the team's strategy. Discussions also highlight the challenges of integrating new talent, balancing financial sustainability with aggressive spending, and the importance of effective coaching in revitalizing players' careers.

Paddy Boyland, an Everton correspondent, shares insights on the emotional farewell to Goodison Park, highlighting unforgettable derby moments. Rory Smith, a senior writer, dives into the financial challenges clubs face when relocating, discussing new ownership strategies. Adrian Clarke, a former Arsenal midfielder, reflects on the impact of the move on club identity and fan engagement. They explore the balance between tradition and commercial growth, revealing the excitement and hope surrounding Everton's new stadium and its future.

Join Rory Smith, Senior writer for The Athletic, Tim Spiers, football columnist, and Matt Slater, finance guru, as they dissect the decline of traditional football powerhouses like Manchester United and Tottenham, now mired in mid-table mediocrity. The trio explores how financial dynamics are reshaping the Premier League hierarchy and challenges young English talents face due to local regulations. They also tackle Tottenham's frustrating journey of success without the silverware, drawing striking parallels to Greek mythology.