The Athletic FC Podcast

Football fans are desperate for transfer news - and it's often bigger than the sport itself.Open twice a year - in January and the summer - the transfer window changes the game.But what actually goes on when deals are made?Join Adam Leventhal as he goes behind the scenes at training grounds, stadiums and offices to explain the anatomy of a transfer and to breakdown the complex process of what a player goes through when they move from club to club.Host: Adam LeventhalExec Prod: Abi Paterson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join Tim Spiers, a Premier League expert from The Athletic, alongside Sam Lee, who covers Manchester City, and James McNicholas, the voice of Arsenal fans. They break down the highly charged 'stay humble' derby between Arsenal and Man City, recapping the drama of their last encounter. The trio dives deep into Arsenal's current struggles with injuries and pressure, while also shining a light on City's tactical strengths. Expect insights on player dynamics and crucial strategies for the weekend showdown!

Join James Horncastle, a sharp football reporter, Phil Hay, the lead writer for Athletic FC, and Jacob Tanswell, Aston Villa's correspondent, as they dive into the revamped Champions League format. They debate its pros and cons, including its revenue potential and its effect on fan engagement. Highlights include Manchester City's thrilling win, the challenges posed by giants like Real Madrid, and Aston Villa's transfer talks around players like Jhon Duran and Ollie Watkins. Get insights into the implications of newfound dynamics in European football!

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.

Phil Hay, a lead writer for the Athletic FC, Mark Carey, a senior data writer, and David Ornstein, a renowned football correspondent, come together to unpack the scarcity of elite strikers in modern football. They analyze Aston Villa’s Jhon Duran's staggering market value and the evolving criteria for top No. 9s. Discussion flows into the shifting dynamics of striker roles, the rising influence of data metrics like expected goals, and the challenges teams face in recruitment. Each expert shares insights into the future of attacking football.

Laurie Whitwell, Manchester United correspondent for The Athletic, joins the discussion on Ruben Amorim's unfiltered coaching style. They tackle the team's surprising victory over Fulham and Amorim's bold choice to prioritize a 63-year-old goalkeeping coach over Marcus Rashford. Insights reveal United's ongoing struggles in attack, especially regarding Rasmus Hoyland, and the financial hurdles the club faces as the January transfer window closes. The conversation highlights the blend of brutal honesty and high expectations in Amorim's management approach.

Tim Spiers, a seasoned football writer, and Thom Harris, a football data analyst, dive into the thrilling matchup between Manchester City and Chelsea. They discuss City's tactical struggles and midfield vulnerabilities after recent performances. Chelsea's bounce-back win over Wolves is highlighted, along with their need for better goal-scoring strategies. Both guests make predictions about the clash, emphasizing the implications for the race to the top four. The conversation also touches on player transfers and team dynamics as the season heats up.

Joining the discussion are Adam Crafton, an insightful reporter from The Athletic, and Felipe Cardenas, who offers a unique Atlanta perspective. They delve into how Donald Trump’s presidency may sway football's trajectory in the U.S., particularly with major tournaments on the horizon. Key topics include Trump's ties with FIFA president Gianni Infantino and the potential effects of his policies on women's sports. They also explore the implications of U.S. immigration policies on youth soccer development and the overall football landscape.

Jon Mackenzie, a Spanish football writer and Andoni Iraola superfan, joins Phil Hay, Lead writer for The Athletic FC, to dive into Iraola's remarkable rise from right back to renowned manager of Bournemouth. They discuss his tactical innovations behind Bournemouth's stunning win against Newcastle and analyze how his coaching style has transformed the team. The duo also speculates on the club's ambitions for European football and the challenges of retaining Iraola amid his growing success.

Phil Hay, the lead writer for The Athletic FC newsletter, joins for a lively discussion about Chelsea's recent 3-1 triumph over Wolves that broke their winless run. They delve into the team's lingering issues regarding squad depth and the prospect of new signings. Hay addresses the ongoing frustrations within Chelsea regarding the transfer window and emphasizes the critical need for reinforcements, especially in defense. The conversation also touches on the high-stakes landscape of the Premier League and Chelsea's ambitions for a top-four finish.