The Athletic FC Podcast

Join Jack Pitt-Brooke, a Premier League insider, and Jon Mackenzie, a tactical guru, as they dissect Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca's call for new signings. The conversation dives into whether fresh talent is the answer or if adaptability is key. They analyze Chelsea's struggles with recruitment, particularly in defense, and contrast the club's youth-focused strategy with successful rivals like Manchester City. The duo also reflects on broader managerial challenges and the evolving roles of coaches in maximizing team performance and cohesion.

Adam Crafton and Matt Slater, football reporters from The Athletic, dive into the exciting potential of La Liga matches hitting U.S. soil, with a focus on a historic clash between Villarreal and Barcelona in Miami. They discuss the hurdles faced and approvals required for this groundbreaking event. The duo also explores the broader implications for La Liga and its competition with Major League Soccer, alongside the financial intricacies involved. Plus, they touch on the controversial idea of a Premier League '39th game,' stirring up debates on globalization in sports.

Adam Crafton, a football reporter for The Athletic, and Adrian Clarke, a football analyst and commentator, delve into Arsenal's recent triumph over Manchester United. They discuss the significance of a controversial corner goal and whether Arsenal is truly evolving under Mikel Arteta or stuck in old patterns. The duo highlights Victor Jochores’ challenging debut and the need for better integration within the squad. They also touch on Arsenal's ambitious recruitment strategy and the pressure Arteta faces in transforming the club's competitive edge in today's Premier League.

Tim Spiers, a football writer for The Athletic, and Stu James, a fellow writer, join to preview the highly anticipated clash between Manchester United and Arsenal. They discuss the managerial pressures facing Arteta and Amorim, the unpredictability of the Premier League, and key player signings that could influence the match outcome. The conversation also touches on charity betting for Cancer Research UK and fan sentiments, providing an engaging look at current team dynamics and the excitement around the upcoming fixtures.

Nick Miller, a football writer known for his insights, and Chris Weatherspoon, a finance expert in football, dive into the survival odds of Leeds, Sunderland, and Burnley in the Premier League. They highlight the unique challenges of newly promoted teams, from tactical adjustments to player acquisitions. The discussion also touches on Sunderland's financial strategies and rising optimism among fans, while assessing the fierce relegation battle dynamics. Join them for a lively analysis of hope and strategy in the fight for survival this season.

In this discussion, David Ornstein, a renowned football transfer reporter, and Jack Pitt-Brooke, a savvy football writer focusing on Tottenham, dive into the whirlwind of player transfers. They reveal that Alexander Isak has told Newcastle he won't play again, stirring rumors of a move to Liverpool. The duo also highlights Spurs' urgent need for signings amidst injury woes and the uncertain future of Gianluigi Donnarumma. With rising transfer costs and intense speculation, they explore the evolving dynamics shaping the transfer landscape.

Chris Waugh, a dedicated football reporter for The Athletic, joins tactical analyst Seb Stafford-Bloor to unpack the drama surrounding Alexander Isak’s refusal to play for Newcastle. They dive into the shifting power dynamics in football transfers and the emotional implications for fans. The duo analyses Newcastle's hunt for a new striker amidst rising tensions and financial constraints, while also addressing the pressing need for strong leadership within the club. The conversation offers a mix of urgency and hope for Newcastle’s future as the new season approaches.

In this discussion, Simon Hughes, a football journalist for The Athletic, and Adam Crafton, the platform's correspondent, dive into Liverpool's recent Community Shield loss. They assess Liverpool's preparedness to defend their Premier League title amidst transfer speculation and evolving team dynamics. Key insights include the challenges of integrating new signings, financial strategies for boosting the squad, and the emotional landscape of the fanbase as they face competition from giants like Manchester City and Chelsea.

Join James Linnington, a veteran Football League referee, Francis Bunce, a sports scientist, Peter Bankes, a Premier League referee on UEFA's VAR list, and Howard Webb, the Chief Refereeing Officer for PGMO. They dive into the intense pressures referees face, from public scrutiny to the demands of technology like VAR. They discuss the importance of mental health, the rigorous training necessary to officiate, and initiatives to improve player communication. Discover what it truly takes to maintain authority on the pitch and the behind-the-scenes life of these match officials.

Andy Mitten, a seasoned reporter covering Manchester United, teams up with Mark Critchley, a football writer offering keen insights into the Premier League. They dive into Manchester United's staggering £200 million investment in strikers and debate whether it will rejuvenate the team. The duo discusses the complexities of player transfers, the transformative changes under new management, and the delicate balance of optimism and caution from fans. With pressing expectations for the season, they analyze the club’s challenging journey ahead and the hope for a renewed era.