The Athletic FC Podcast

Listeners are transported to Goodison Park for an emotional farewell as Everton bids adieu after 133 years. Fans share heartfelt memories and the nostalgia wrapped in their experiences, celebrating the community and family traditions tied to the iconic stadium. The unique atmosphere of anticipation is captured, along with personal stories that underline the deep connections to this beloved venue. As they prepare for a new chapter, the blend of hope and bittersweet memories fills the air, creating a poignant farewell to a footballing landmark.

Matt Woosnam, Crystal Palace correspondent, shares insights alongside Reuben Pinder, a seasoned video producer and Palace fan, and Sam Lee, Manchester City correspondent. They delve into the exciting prospect of Crystal Palace clinching their first major trophy. The conversation highlights Oliver Glasner's transformative impact on the team's confidence and tactics. They also discuss the historical significance of winning silverware versus maintaining steady league performance, and the emotional stakes for both clubs in the high-stakes FA Cup Final.

Seb Stafford-Bloor, a German football correspondent, and Art De Roche, an Arsenal writer, dive into Harry Kane's first major trophy with Bayern Munich and what it means for his legacy. They discuss the emotional weight of breaking his trophy drought, player loyalty, and the growing pressures of social media. The conversation extends to underperforming clubs in search of success, Wrexham's incredible promotions, and Arsenal's challenging season—all highlighting the changing definitions of success in football.

Join James Pearce, Liverpool correspondent for The Athletic, and Oli Kay, senior football writer, as they dive into the contentious issue of fans booing their players. They explore the motivations behind such actions, especially in light of Trent Alexander-Arnold’s recent experience at Anfield. The conversation touches on the emotional complexities of fan loyalty versus player ambition, the changing dynamics in media interaction, and the psychological impact on athletes. It's a thought-provoking discussion on how to balance passion with respect in football.

Football writers Jay Harris and Liam Tharme dive into Brentford's exciting season, spotlighting dynamic duo Bryan Mbeumo and Yoane Wissa. They discuss Mbeumo's potential summer transfer and its implications for the club's strategy. The duo's impressive goal tallies are examined, alongside Brentford's adaptability under coach Thomas Frank. Harris and Tharme highlight the team's recruitment strategies and the market value of their emerging talents in a shifting football landscape, raising questions about Brentford's future with key players.

Dermot Corrigan, a La Liga correspondent, alongside Guillermo Rai, a dedicated Real Madrid writer, and Seb Stafford-Bloor, a Bundesliga correspondent, dissect the chaos enveloping Real Madrid after a recent crushing defeat. They explore the team's defensive woes, individual talents like Mbappe, and the stark contrast with Barcelona's cohesive performance. The trio debates whether Xabi Alonso can revitalize the squad, navigating his successful Leverkusen tenure and the immense pressures of managing a club with lofty expectations.

On Thursday night both Manchester United and Spurs got the job done in the Europa League to book their place in Bilbao.One of them will be the Champions League next season - but who will be joining them via the Premier League?This weekend's standout fixture comes at St. James' Park as Newcastle United welcome Chelsea in a meeting of 4th v 5th.Host: Adam LeventhalWith: Tim Spiers and Oliver KayExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducers: Guy Clarke and John Rogers Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Arsenal’s European journey is over after losing 3-1 on aggregate to Paris Saint-Germain.So where does this leave Mikel Arteta’s process and why can’t Arsenal get over the line?Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Art De Roche, Phil Hay and Liam TharmeExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Guy Clarke Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Inter are through to the Champions League final after a breathtaking semi-final against Barcelona.So where does that rank among the best knockout matches in the competition's history?And are Inter favourites to lift the trophy now?Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Pol Ballus & Max CallegariExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Mike Stavrou  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join Manchester City correspondent Sam Lee and writer Phil Hay as they dissect a challenging season for the club. They delve into Pep Guardiola's summer rebuild, discussing key transfer targets like Florian Wirtz and the need for strategic signings. The duo explores the rising talents from City's academy, highlighting how youth players are balancing the squad amid injuries. They also touch on financial strategies that come into play as the club prepares to regain its competitive edge in the Premier League.