The Athletic FC Podcast

Simon Leaf and Tom Murray, co-founders of Three Points Law and sports lawyers who handle transfer legalities. They unpack why transfer fees exist, how sell-on clauses and payment schedules work, and the strange world of exotic contract terms. Short, sharp and full of legal colour on confidentiality, loans with options and how clubs navigate bargain power.

Tim Spiers, football journalist offering club insight and match previews, and Stu James, tactical-minded football writer, dissect Spurs vs Man City. They probe Spurs' Jekyll-and-Hyde form, whether Thomas Frank can reshape the team, and why European and domestic performances diverge. They also assess City’s tactical flexibility, Haaland’s form, and weekend fixtures like Leeds vs Arsenal and Liverpool vs Newcastle.

Seb Stafford-Bloor, tactical analyst of European football. Jack Lang, match reporter and commentator on Champions League action. They debate Benfica’s shock over Real, Mourinho’s role, goalkeeper goals and memorable moments. They dissect Premier League strength in Europe, Napoli and Conte’s campaign, Arsenal’s unbeaten run, Bayern’s integration of Musiala, and underdog stories like Bodo Glimt and Karabag.

Carl Anka, football writer who dissects striker fit; Mark Carey, experienced reporter with sharp signing assessments; Oli Kay, analyst focusing on tactics and stats. They discuss why recent big-money forwards have struggled in the Premier League. They examine evolving striker roles, how team shapes and service patterns affect tall centre-forwards, and why recruitment and temperament matter for adaptation.

David Ornstein, senior football correspondent known for transfer-market scoops. James Pearce, Liverpool reporter with on-the-ground insight. Tim Spiers, football journalist who adds stats and tactical context. They debate Liverpool’s recruitment failures, injury and depth issues, Van Dijk and Salah form, Arne Slot’s standing, FSG’s long-term plans and summer transfer targets.

Art De Roche, football reporter/analyst who studies player psychology and tactics, and Adam Crafton, in-depth match analyst, dissect Arsenal’s wobble. They debate mindset cracks, momentum shifts after going 1-0 up, creative drought among forwards, system predictability and possible midfield reconfigs. They also weigh the impact of fans, set-piece dependence and Manchester United’s resurgence.

Mark Carey, football journalist who explores psychological and contextual factors; Liam Tharme, analyst bringing statistical measures and research; Michael Cox, tactician offering historical and tactical breakdowns. They debate whether home advantage is shrinking. Short takes on crowd effects, COVID blank-slate seasons, tactical convergence, pitch quirks and stadium moves.

Art de Roché, tactical reporter known for sharp match analysis, and Stu James, football journalist with Premier League insight, preview Arsenal vs Manchester United. They debate Carrick’s tactics, United personnel choices and Mbouma as a striker. They also dissect Arsenal’s San Siro performance, squad depth and the wider weekend fixtures including City, Newcastle, Villa and Chelsea.

Pol Ballus, a Barcelona correspondent, and Andy Mitten, a local football journalist, dive into Marcus Rashford's flourishing time in Spain. They discuss his impressive 20 goal contributions and how he's enhanced Barcelona's depth. Rashford's lifestyle in Barcelona is highlighted as a refreshing change, leading to renewed motivation and focus. His positive impact on teammates and coaches, alongside Hansi Flick's trust, stands out. However, financial struggles complicate a permanent signing, making his future uncertain.

Guillermo Moray and Dermot Corrigan, experts on Real Madrid and its intricate politics, dive into Florentino Perez's reign as a club powerhouse. They discuss the recent boos from fans and how Vinícius' stunning performance helped win them back. The duo explores Perez's commercial successes, growing pressures as a president, and fan protests against board decisions. With insights on Madrid's upcoming challenges and the controversial investor plan, they unravel the potent mix of sports and politics that shapes the club's future.