The Athletic FC Podcast

West Ham sit 17th as they prepare to face Brighton this weekend. So how have they ended up in this position, and how much is it down to the approach of manager Graham Potter? Host: Adam Leventhal With: Roshane Thomas, Liam TharmeExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, Ayo Akinwolere chats with Mark Carey, a senior data analyst, and Phil Hay, the lead writer, about the rising star, Dean Huijsen—a 20-year-old center-back impressing Premier League giants. They explore his standout skills and versatility, discussing why clubs like Liverpool and Real Madrid are interested in triggering his £50m release clause. The trio dives into the strategic value of recruiting young talent and the evolving role of defensive players in modern football, showcasing Huijsen's potential impact and future in the sport.

Guillermo Rai, a Real Madrid writer for The Athletic, and Tomas Hill Lopez-Menchero, another insightful writer, dive into the future of Real Madrid after their Champions League exit. They discuss the likelihood of Carlo Ancelotti's departure and the strong speculation surrounding Xabi Alonso as his successor. The conversation also touches on the immense pressure of coaching at such a storied club, the allure of the Brazilian national team, and the competitive dynamics within La Liga, setting the stage for an intriguing managerial shift.

On Monday, Leeds United reclaimed their seat at the top table after two years in the ChampionshipSo, what lessons can they learn from their Premier League relegation last time out?And how can they stay up for the long haul this time?Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Phil Hay, Beren CrossExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Mike Stavrou & Nick Thomson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

They left it late, but Chelsea grabbed a crucial win in their bid to secure a top five finish, as Tyrique George and Pedro Neto saw the Blues come from behind to win 2-1 at Fulham.Victory at Craven Cottage keeps them in the mix for a return to European football’s elite competition next season.But with fan discontent growing, how important is Champions League qualification for Enzo Maresca’s Chelsea future?Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Chelsea correspondent Liam Twomey to discuss the importance of the win as well as our football correspondent David Ornstein to analyse the pressure on Maresca and look ahead to the summer transfer window.Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Liam Twomey and David OrnsteinExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chris Waugh, Newcastle United writer, and Jacob Tanswell, Aston Villa correspondent, join Mark Critchley to discuss the thrilling race for Champions League qualification. They recount a dramatic Europa League match where Manchester United edged Lyon, highlighting tactical nuances and key performances. Aston Villa's home advantage and recent success are contrasted with Newcastle's upward trajectory. Tanswell and Waugh preview their critical clash that could impact the league hierarchy, emphasizing the fierce competition and shifting dynamics in the Premier League.

Arsenal are through to the semi-finals of the Champions League for only the third time in their history - and they had to beat the holders to do it.So how far does that 5-1 win on aggregate propel Mikel Arteta’s project forward? And crucially, can they now go all the way in the Champions League?Host: Ayo AkinwolereWith: Art de Roche, Guillermo Rai, Charlie EccleshareExecutive Producer: Adey MoorheadProducer: Mike Stavrou & John Rogers Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pol Ballus, Barcelona correspondent for The Athletic, and guest Thom Harris dive into Barcelona's thrilling Champions League journey. They discuss Hansi Flick's coaching impact and the team's shaky defense. The potential treble showdown against PSG is a highlight, exploring player transformations and management strategies. Szczesny's surprising return and Gavi's resilience are also analyzed, alongside Barcelona's financial hurdles and the ongoing Camp Nou renovations. It’s a captivating look at the challenges and triumphs of one of football's greatest clubs.

Join writers Jack Pitt-Brooke, who covers football for The Athletic, and Duncan Alexander, a specialist in football statistics, as they dissect the Premier League's current season. They debate whether the league is dull compared to the thrill of the Champions League. The duo explores how tactical evolution, especially under coaches like Pep Guardiola, influences creativity and player dynamics. They also discuss the rising competitiveness of mid-tier teams, the nostalgia for past football eras, and the disruptive impact of VAR on the modern game.

Laurie Whitwell, Manchester United correspondent, and Simon Johnson, Chelsea writer, dive into the fierce competition for Ipswich Town's promising striker, Liam Delap. They dissect the urgent need for a dominant forward at both clubs and speculate on how Delap could transform their attacking play. The duo talks about the financial pressures teams face while navigating the transfer market and considers Delap's potential impacts on squad dynamics. Fans will find their insights on club strategies and player comparisons particularly engaging.