

Handbrake Off: The Athletic FC's Arsenal show
The Athletic
The Athletic's Amy Lawrence, Adrian Clarke, James McNicholas (Gunnerblog), Art de Roche and comedian Ian Stone bring you a twice-weekly podcast dedicated to Arsenal Football Club. They'll bring you reaction to all the games, expert insight into the inner-workings of the club, including transfers and contracts, and analysis on the women's team too. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books

12 snips
Jan 29, 2026 • 47min
8 wins from 8 as Arsenal top UCL league phase
They unpack Arsenal’s 3-2 win and the significance of going 8 wins from 8 in the UCL group stage. The panel praise Gabriel Martinelli’s direct impact and discuss Kai Havertz’s promising return to the starting lineup. They debate Arteta’s call to embrace the run, the challenge for creative players to settle, and weigh up likely knockout opponents ahead.

Jan 26, 2026 • 37min
Is this really the end of the world?
They unpack Arsenal’s 3-2 loss to Manchester United and ask if one result truly signals disaster. Tactical tweaks and formation changes are debated, especially fullback roles and substitution choices. The panel weighs dressing-room dynamics, fatigue and mindset against historical turnarounds. Fans, squad rotation and ways to spark attacking magic are discussed as routes back to form.

Jan 21, 2026 • 44min
Jesus brace sinks Inter at San Siro
In this episode, Amy Lawrence, a seasoned football journalist for The Athletic, shares her insights from Arsenal's thrilling 3-1 victory at San Siro. The conversation highlights Gabriel Jesus's standout performance with two goals and his leadership on the pitch. The panel discusses the tactical advantages Arsenal found in European play, the impressive squad depth showcased by Mosquera's return, and Bukayo Saka's rising status as one of Europe's best right wingers. They also preview the upcoming showdown against Manchester United.

Jan 19, 2026 • 38min
Point gained on rivals despite disappointing draw at Forest
Amy Lawrence and Adrian Clarke join Ian Stone to discuss Arsenal’s 0-0 draw away to Nottingham Forest The panel reflect on the disappointment of not fully capitalising on dropped points from rivals, the mis-firing frontline, the lack of urgency in attacking play, the impact the schedule is having on players, missing Calafiori on the left and taking perspective on the season as a whole. Plus, they look ahead to Inter at San Siro in the Champions League on Tuesday night. Producer: Robby Williams Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 15, 2026 • 37min
Advantage Arsenal but should the tie be done & dusted?
Art de Roché and James McNicholas join Ian Stone to discuss Arsenal’s 3-2 win away to Chelsea in the Carabao Cup semi-final first leg on Wednesday night. The panel reflect on their disappointment that the lead wasn’t bigger going into the second leg despite the win, Arsenal’s aggressive pressing, a good night for White, Gyokeres’ improved performance, Zubimendi’s attacking dimension, how the substitutes affected the game, the differences between Kepa and Raya, and the atmosphere in the away end.Plus, they discuss Per Mertesacker leaving his academy role at the end of the season, they look ahead to the match against Nottingham Forest on Saturday and we hear from Natasha from Trinidad & Tobago in the latest instalment of ‘Up Your Arsenal’.Producer: Robby Williams Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 12, 2026 • 38min
Martinelli hat-trick sends Arsenal into FA Cup fourth round
Amy Lawrence and Adrian Clarke join Ian Stone to discuss Arsenal’s 4-1 win away to Portsmouth on Sunday. The panel reflect on Marli Salmon becoming the youngest player to represent the club in the FA Cup, Gabriel Martinelli responding to a difficult week with his first career hat-trick, Mikel Merino’s performance in the holding midfield role, Ethan Nwaneri’s encouraging display, Kai Havertz’s return from injury and Madueke’s eventful outing.Plus, they talk about Bukayo Saka’s new contract with Arsenal and look ahead to Arsenal’s match away to Chelsea in the semi-final first leg of the Carabao CupProducer: Robby Williams Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 9, 2026 • 45min
Were Arsenal brave enough against Liverpool?
Adrian Clarke and Art de Roché join Ian Stone to discuss Arsenal’s 0-0 draw at home to Liverpool on Thursday night. The panel reflect on whether Arsenal lacked bravery in a disappointing performance, losing control in midfield in the second half, Gyokeres’ ineffective showing, the atmosphere in the ground, the lack of urgency to win the game, the Martinelli incident during stoppage time and the media response to it.Plus, they look ahead to Arsenal’s match against Portsmouth in the FA Cup on Sunday, we hear from Stephen in Belfast for another instalment of ‘Up Your Arsenal’ and David Ornstein gives us the details on Bukayo Saka’s new 5 year contract.Producer: Robby Williams Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 5, 2026 • 49min
Rice brace leads Arsenal to victory
Arsenal clinched a thrilling 3-2 victory against Bournemouth, showcasing resilience despite some sloppy moments. Declan Rice's standout performance earned him a new chant, highlighting his rapid growth at the club. Martin Odegaard delivered a brilliant assist for the third goal, while Gabriel redeemed himself after an early mistake. The hosts also discuss the impact of squad depth, preview the upcoming clash with Liverpool, and dive into the implications of Manchester City's draw with Chelsea, all sprinkled with lighter moments and fan insights.

11 snips
Dec 31, 2025 • 52min
Gabriel returns in style as Arsenal thrash Villa
Arsenal shines in their 4-1 victory over Aston Villa, showcasing a liberated second half after a cautious start. The two Martins, Odegaard and Zubimendi, spark praise for their dynamic midfield partnership. Gabriel Jesus marks his comeback with an emotional goal, while Gabriel Magalhães impresses with his leadership and defensive prowess. The panel also reflects on Leandro Trossard's breakout season and the depth of the squad. Looking ahead, the discussion turns to the upcoming match against Bournemouth and memorable moments from 2025.

10 snips
Dec 29, 2025 • 51min
Odegaard on song in nervy Brighton win
The discussion kicks off with Arsenal's narrow 2-1 victory over Brighton and highlights from the Carabao Cup win. Odegaard's standout performance is lauded for his creativity and impact. Raya's crucial match-winning save draws applause, showcasing his importance to the team. The panel dives into the challenges faced by new signings adapting to the squad. Also, a look ahead to the tactical threats posed by Aston Villa and the necessity for a pragmatic approach adds to the excitement. Fans are encouraged to trust the players amidst their nerves.


