The Athletic FC Podcast

So Man City suffered defeat in the Premier League for the first time this season away at Bournemouth on Saturday. Added to that, ahead of the game manager Pep Guardiola outlined their mounting injury list, so how much trouble are City in - and could the demands of the season lead to a more open title race? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by Oli Kay and The Athletic FC newsletter’s lead writer Phil Hay to analyse the champions start to the season. Man City writer Sam Lee explains the context of their injury list.  As well as that senior data analyst Mark Carey drops in to provide context to the state of the table after 10 games and NBA Daily host Dave DuFour has his say on Guardiola drawing comparisons to NBA over fixture congestion. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Oli Kay, Phil Hay and Mark Carey Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to The Preview on The Athletic FC, where each week we go deep on the biggest game of the weekend. This week — we’re focusing on Manchester United against Chelsea. In the first Premier League game since Erik ten Hag's sacking, interim boss Ruud van Nistelrooy will be looking to get his side back on track. But with the chance to go nine points clear of United, can Enzo Maresca make a statement in Chelsea's bid for Champions League football? Plus, we look at the fixtures elsewhere with drop ins from the club podcasts across our network. Host: Adam Leventhal With: Tim Spiers, Jon Mackenzie Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Manchester United have reached an agreement to make Ruben Amorim their head coach. So how did the deal come about and is Amorim more suited to succeed at Man United than Erik ten Hag?  Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Laurie Whitwell, David Novo, Mark Critchley, Andy Mitten  Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Nick Thomson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Real Madrid were expecting Vinicius Junior to win the Ballon d’Or on Monday night, but it didn’t go their way. The decision prompted Madrid to cancel their trip to Paris and effectively boycott the event. So.. have Real overreacted? And are they facing bigger problems on the pitch? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Dermot Corrigan and Phil Hay Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Things are looking good for Chelsea in the Premier League.  Despite this, their manager Enzo Maresca has urged captain Reece James to show more leadership. So is a “proper leader” what Chelsea are missing? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Liam Twomey and Phil Hay Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Erik ten Hag has been sacked as Manchester United manager having won just four games from 14 in all competitions at the start of this season. So, why now and what next for Man United? The Athletic's David Ornstein, who broke the story along with Adam Crafton, drops in to reveal the detail within United's decision while Ayo Akinwolere is joined by Laurie Whitwell and Mark Critchley to analyse the decision to let Ten Hag go. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Laurie Whitwell and Mark Critchley Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to The Preview on The Athletic FC, where each week we go deep on the biggest game of the weekend. This week — we’re focusing on Arsenal vs Liverpool. Plus, we look at the fixtures elsewhere with drop ins from the club podcasts across our network. Host: Adam Leventhal With: Tim Spiers, Nick Miller, Michael Cox, James Pearce Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With Tottenham on the lookout for potential new investors this week has seen speculation intensify around the possibility of Amanda Staveley, who brokered the Saudi Public Investment fund takeover of Newcastle United, setting her sights on Spurs. But would Spurs be able to spend enough to make a difference on the pitch? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic Matt Slater and Jack Pitt-Brooke to discuss Tottenham’s need for external funding, the role of Daniel Levy and how any investor would fit into the current power dynamic at Spurs as well as assessing the type of profile that would suit them. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Matt Slater and Jack Pitt-Brooke Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jurgen Klopp has a new job, but it’s not in management. The former Liverpool manager begins work as Red Bull’s head of global soccer from January 1, 2025. So how has a football ‘romantic’ ended up working for one of the world’s biggest corporations? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Seb Stafford-Bloor and Simon Hughes Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

10 games into the La Liga season it’s Barcelona who sit top, after a convincing 5-1 demolition of Sevilla on Sunday. With Bayern Munich and Real Madrid to come, this week looks set to test Barca’s newfound resolve under Hansi Flick So, are Barcelona back? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's La Liga writer Dermot Corrigan to discuss Flick's start to life in Barcelona as well as their financial position before Barcelona writer Pol Ballus drops in having been at the manager's media conference ahead of Wednesday night's Champions League clash with Bayern Munich. Reading Barcelona’s accounts – and why a ‘€12m profit’ is actually a €91m loss Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Dermot Corrigan and Pol Ballus Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As Declan Rice said after Arsenal’s 2-0 defeat to Bournemouth at the weekend, the team are making "silly mistakes”. So, can Arsenal still be title contenders if they keep making these mistakes? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Phil Hay and James McNicholas Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to The Preview on The Athletic FC, where each week we go deep on the biggest game of the weekend. This week — we’re focusing on Liverpool vs Chelsea. This should be an intriguing tactical battle - Arne Slot's reds boast the best defensive record so far, while Enzo Maresca's blues top the charts for xG from open play. Plus, we look at the fixtures elsewhere with drop ins from the club podcasts across our network. Host: Adam Leventhal With: Jon Mackenzie, Luke Bosher Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jhon Duran just can't stop scoring! Another goal off the bench for Colombia during the international break makes adds to the six goals he already has for Aston Villa this season, with six of those coming off the bench. So how does he go from supersub to starter? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Aston Villa writer Jacob Tanswell and senior data analyst Mark Carey to delve into Duran's role, character and potential with the 20-year-old Colombian quickly emerging as one of the Premier League's most talked about players. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Jacob Tanswell and Mark Carey Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

England have chosen a permanent successor to Gareth Southgate. So why has Thomas Tuchel been chosen and does he offer the best chance of winning the World Cup? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: David Ornstein, Jack Pitt-Brooke, Liam Twomey and Phil Hay Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou, Jay Beale and Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Adam Crafton exclusively revealed that Sir Alex Ferguson’s Manchester United ambassadorial contract has been ended by the club. So why have INEOS taken this decision? And with Erik ten Hag back at work after the international break - does this mean the owners have also taken a decision on the manager? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Adam Crafton, Laurie Whitwell and Phil Hay Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As things stand, Pep Guardiola’s contract expires at Manchester City at the end of the season..   Meanwhile, the English Football Association are still to announce a permanent replacement for Gareth Southgate. So, is there any chance Guardiola would manage England? The Athletic's senior football writer Oli Kay and Man City writer Sam Lee join Ayo Akinwolere to discuss Guardiola's future as well as England's search for a permanent successor. England writer Jack Pitt-Brooke also drops by following the 3-1 win over Finland to assess Lee Carsley's position as interim head coach. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Oli Kay and Sam Lee Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Adam Leventhal is joined by Tim Spiers and Jon Mackenzie to assess the opening seven gameweeks of the 24/25 Premier League season. The panel discuss all 20 teams; reflecting on Arne Slot's impressive start, the contrasting playing styles of Mikel Arteta and Pep Guardiola, the race for Europe led by Chelsea and Villa, and the four sides still yet to win a game. Plus - Brentford's fast starts, Spurs' collapse at Brighton, Forest exceeding expectations and much more. Host: Adam Leventhal With: Tim Spiers, Jon Mackenzie Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

He was once the most expensive player in world football but last year Paul Pogba saw his career in tatters after being handed a four-year suspension for a doping violation. Now having seen that ban reduced to 18-months he could be in line for a return to action in March. So what is next for Pogba?  James Horncastle and Oli Kay are alongside Ayo Akinwolere to talk about Pogba’s ban being reduced, Juventus’ response and what could unfold between now and the Frenchman being able to return to competitive action. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: James Horncastle and Oli Kay Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

So the verdict has been announced in Manchester City's legal case against the Premier League over the rules on commercial deals involving clubs' owners. So can either side claim to be winners or losers from the case?  And what ramifications could it all have for the 115 charges hanging over City? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Matt Slater and Jacob Whitehead Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we’re focusing on the four winless clubs in the Premier League; Southampton, Wolves, Ipswich Town and Crystal Palace. What can these clubs do to avoid being cut adrift and their managers getting sacked? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Tim Spiers and Phil Hay Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Arne Slot has settled in nicely at Anfield with his side are top of the Premier League heading into the October international break following their 1-0 win over Crystal Palace on Saturday. Despite winning nine of their 10 games under the Dutchman in all competitions, Liverpool are yet to beat anyone in the top half of the Premier League table. So how serious is Liverpool’s challenge for the title?  Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Oli Kay and James Pearce to analyse Liverpool's start to the Slot era with La Liga writer Dermot Corrigan also dropping by to discuss Trent Alexander-Arnold's contract uncertainty amid possible interest from Real Madrid. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Oli Kay, James Pearce and Dermot Corrigan Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to The Preview on The Athletic FC, where each week we’ll be going deep on the biggest game of the weekend. This week — we’re focusing on Aston Villa vs Manchester United. After contrasting weeks in Europe, will Sunday's game decide Erik ten Hag's future? Plus, we look at the fixtures elsewhere with drop ins from the club podcasts across our network. Host: Adam Leventhal With: Tim Spiers, Nick Miller, Jacob Tanswell, Liam Tharme, Ahmed Walid Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Why is it that everytime Arsenal get a set-piece it feels like they’ll score? Since the start of the 2021/22 season Mikel Arteta's have scored 44 goals from set-pieces with Gabriel responsible for 12 of those. So, how have set-pieces become so important? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic FC newsletter lead writer Phil Hay, Tactics writer Liam Tharme and former Premier League defender Nedum Onuoha to debate the rising importance and focus on set-pieces including the influences of coaches such as Nicolas Jover. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Phil Hay, Liam Tharme and Nedum Onuoha Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On Tuesday night PSG lost for first time since Kylian Mbappe left for Real Madrid having started the season seven games unbeaten prior to their visit to London. They were also without Ousmane Dembele against Arsenal, the player was dropped for disciplinary reasons. So can PSG succeed without superstars? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by Tom Williams, author of Va Va Voom, the modern history of French Football and Pierre-Etienne Minonzio from L'Equipe to discuss PSG's start to the new season, the role of Luis Enrique in their re-styling as well as which young players amongst their ranks could blossom into being their next talisman. The Athletic's Peter Rutzler also drops in with his view having been at the Emirates while Mike Stavrou also catches up with the travelling PSG supporters. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Tom Williams and Pierre-Etienne Minonzio Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Since the start of 2023-24, Cole Palmer has been directly involved in 43 PL goals (28 goals, 15 assists), more than any other player. So, is Palmer the best player in the Premier League? And why is he thriving at Chelsea? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Liam Twomey and Phil Hay Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we’re focusing on Manchester United after another damaging defeat, this time to Tottenham. So… what can Erik ten Hag do to turn things around?  Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Laurie Whitwell, Jay Harris and Phil Hay Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to The Preview on The Athletic FC, where each week we’ll be going deep on the biggest game of the weekend. This week — we’re focusing on Manchester United vs Spurs at Old Trafford. With Ange Postecoglou & Erik ten Hag's sides 10th & 11th respectively, Sunday presents a huge opportunity for one to kick start their season. Plus, we look at the fixtures elsewhere with drop ins from the club podcasts across our network. Host: Adam Leventhal With: Tim Spiers, Jon Mackenzie Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In June FIFA’s new Club World Cup launches but do you know where it’s being held, who’s playing in it or what the format actually is? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Matt Slater and Adam Crafton to discuss the tournament ahead of it's relaunch in the USA next summer with Felipe Cardenas also popping by to explain what it means for the US to host the competition. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Matt Slater & Adam Crafton Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

An agreement has been reached for The Friedkin Group to complete a takeover of Everton. But when will it actually be completed?  And how is it being paid for?  Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Matt Slater, Paddy Boyland and James Horncastle  Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we’re focusing on West Ham. There was so much excitement over their summer transfer business, but Julen Lopetegui has won just one of his first five league games in charge. So… have the Hammers got worse under their new manager or is the job just impossible? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Benji Lanyado, Jon Mackenzie Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On Sunday, champions Manchester City and challengers Arsenal played out a thrilling 2-2 draw at the Etihad in which both sides had to come from behind. Despite trailing to Erling Haaland's early goal, Mikel Arteta's side were only denied a win in the depths of added time with John Stones equalising for Pep Guardiola's side. So have Arsenal moved closer to dethroning Man City, despite not beating them? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Man City writer Sam Lee and Arsenal writer James McNicholas, who were both watching on to discuss the fallout from a game which involved plenty of drama both on-and-off the pitch. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Sam Lee and James McNicholas Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to The Preview on The Athletic FC, where each week we’ll be going deep on the biggest game of the weekend. This week — we’re focusing on 1st vs 2nd as Manchester City host Arsenal at the Etihad Stadium. Plus, we look at the fixtures elsewhere with drop ins from the club podcasts across our network. Host: Adam Leventhal With: Tim Spiers, Jon Mackenzie Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we’re focusing on Aston Villa - looking at their season so far and what was a hectic summer transfer window.. So how is Unai Emery’s side managing the demands of both Champions League and Premier League football?  Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Thom Harris who was there to witness Villa’s return to action in the Champions League this week & also broadcaster Dan Bardell who is very much a Villa fan too. Producer: Nick Thomson Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we’re focusing on Real Madrid and their super star players - The Galacticos. So how does Carlo Ancelotti manage the talent and the egos to deliver on the pitch? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Dermot Corrigan, Tomas Hill Lopez-Menchero and Ramón Calderón Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we’re focusing on Manchester City’s 115 charges for alleged breaches of financial rules after the long-awaited hearing started earlier this week. So how might all this play out for City? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Phil Hay and Matt Slater Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After victory in the North London derby, is Arsenal's leaner squad capable of keeping pace with Manchester City across both the Premier League and the Champions League? Also, David Ornstein will bring us all the details of manager Mikel Arteta’s new contract  And what does defeat to Arsenal say about how far Ange Postecoglou are behind their local rivals. Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic’s football correspondent David Ornstein and newsletter lead writer, Phil Hay Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: David Ornstein & Phil Hay Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Nick Thomson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to The Preview on The Athletic FC, where each week we’ll be going deep on the biggest game of the weekend. This week — we’re focusing on the North London derby as Spurs host Arsenal at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. Plus, we look at the fixtures elsewhere with drop ins from the club podcasts across our network. Host: Adam Leventhal With: Jon Mackenzie, Nick Miller Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

These days, most Premier League clubs have an executive to deal with transfers. From Richard Hughes swapping Bournemouth for Liverpool this summer to Manchester United’s pursuit of Dan Ashworth and Newcastle replacing him with Paul Mitchell who has got off to a tricky start. So, when a transfer window doesn’t go to plan, is the sporting director to blame? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Newcastle United writer Chris Waugh, lead writer for The Athletic FC's newsletter Phil Hay and senior football writer Simon Hughes. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Phil Hay, Chris Waugh and Simon Hughes Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Football is at breaking point. That's the message of yet another stark warning from FIFPro who recently suggested that this season will be the "worst ever" for player workload. We have PFA Chief Exec Maheta Molango on to explain what he's hearing from players, the impact this could have on its youngest stars, and whether we're heading towards a strike. Host: Ayo Akinwolere Guests: Maheta Molango and Stuart James Exec Prod: Adey Moorhead Prod: Abi Paterson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Since Roman Abramovich put Chelsea up for sale over two years ago, the club has been plagued with instability on and off the pitch. This week - things have got worse - Clearlake and Todd Boehly’s relationship is at breaking point and the ownership is in crisis. So why has this partnership fractured, and what does it mean for Chelsea’s future?  Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Adam Crafton, Liam Twomey, Simon Johnson Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mauricio Pochettino is set to be confirmed as the new head coach of the US Men’s National Team The Argentine takes charge less than two years out from co-hosting the World Cup So, is Pochettino the right choice to turn US fortunes into an American dream? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Adam Crafton and Felipe Cardenas to analyse the potential appointment ahead of an official announcement with the countdown to the 2026 World Cup already underway! Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Adam Crafton and Felipe Cardenas Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Adam Leventhal is joined by Tim Spiers and Jon Mackenzie to assess the opening three weeks of the 24/25 Premier League season. The panel reflect on Liverpool's 3-0 victory at Old Trafford, Everton's collapse at home to Bournemouth, and back to back hat-tricks for Erling Haaland - helping Manchester City start the season as they ended last. We also hear from our Tottenham and Chelsea writers from the club podcasts across our network, and talk life after Toney at Brentford. Plus - will Russell Martin's style of play get Southampton relegated, and Mark Carey drops by to tell us at what point the Premier League table begins to reflect the final standings.  Host: Adam Leventhal With: Tim Spiers, Jon Mackenzie, Mark Carey Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, Leicester City won their appeal against a Premier League charge for PSR breaches. Everton & Nottingham Forest have already been punished for financial rule breaking and Manchester City face multiple charges of their own, so how did Leicester avoid a points deduction and what does it mean for PSR? Ian Irving is joined by The Athletic's senior football news reporter Matt Slater and lead writer of The Athletic FC newsletter Phil Hay to discuss the complexity of Leicester's appeal and what impact it could have for PSR and the rest of the Premier League. Related article: How Leicester City avoided a Premier League points deduction and what it means for PSR - The Athletic Host: Ian Irving With: Matt Slater and Phil Hay Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Victor Osimhen was once the hottest strikers in European football. But instead of a move to PSG or Chelsea, the 25-year-old is swapping Naples for Istanbul. So… how has Osimhen ended up at Galatasaray? Host: Ian Irving With: James Horncastle and Carl Anka Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we’re focusing on the Premier League club that is rock bottom of the table after three straight losses. Meanwhile, off the pitch, their future is still up in the air. So… what now for Everton? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Paddy Boyland, Phil Hay and Matt Slater Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we’re picking the bones out of Liverpool’s 3-0 rout of Manchester United. Arne Slot has begun life at Anfield with three wins from three, as for Erik ten Hag’s side they’ve already lost twice this season. So have Liverpool improved or are Manchester United just not the test they once were? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Manchester United writer Carl Anka and Liverpool writer James Pearce, who were at Old Trafford, to analyse the difference between the two sides and examine the start to life under Slot for Liverpool. Plus David Ornstein drops by to discuss the latest around Mohamed Salah's contract situation following his comments after the game, as well as reviewing Liverpool's transfer dealings this summer under new sporting director Richard Hughes Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: James Pearce, Carl Anka and David Ornstein Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to The Preview on The Athletic FC, where each week we’ll be going deep on the biggest game of the weekend. This week — we’re focusing on Arne Slot's first serious test as Erik ten Hag's Manchester United host Liverpool at Old Trafford. Plus, we look at the fixtures elsewhere with drop ins from the club podcasts across our network. Host: Adam Leventhal With: Tim Spiers, Jon Mackenzie, Carl Anka, James Pearce, Neil Mellor Executive Producer: Ben Green Producer: Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ahead of the Champions League returning it’s goodbye to the group stage and that’s not the only change - you’ll probably notice they’ve dabbled with the music as well!  To delve into the changes to the format Ayo Akinwolere is joined by football news reporter Matt Slater and lead writer for The Athletic FC newsletter Phil Hay. The panel get into the the new league structure, explain why it gets called "The Swiss Model" and how it will work in practice. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Matt Slater and Phil Hay Executive Producer: Abi Paterson Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brighton have had an impressive start under their 31-year old-manager Fabian Hurzeler and an even more impressive transfer window - with £200million spent.  On the show it’s tactics writer Liam Tharme and German football writer Seb Stafford-Bloor. And we’re asking… is there something exciting happening with the Seagulls this season? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Liam Tharme and Seb Stafford-Bloor Executive Producer: Abi Paterson Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With just days left until the transfer window closes - what big moves should we look out for? So what is going to happen with Raheem Sterling and Jadon Sancho?  Are Liverpool getting Federico Chiesa?  And is Manuel Ugarte finally on his way to Manchester United? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: David Ornstein and Carl Anka Executive Producer: Abi Paterson Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

One game, one win but Vincent Kompany’s Bayern Munich had to leave it late to get the job done! Serge Gnabry with a late winner as they came from behind to beat Wolfsburg 3-2. So after Bayer Leverkusen ended Bayern’s run of 11 straight titles last season, can Kompany lead them back to the top? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's German football writer Seb Stafford-Bloor and Andy Jones, who watched Kompany's Burnley during his two-year stay at Turf Moor to analyse the Belgian's start to life with Bayern. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Seb Stafford-Bloor and Andy Jones Executive Producer: Abi Paterson Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to The Preview on The Athletic FC, where each week we’ll be going deep on the biggest game of the weekend. This week — we’re focusing on Unai Emery's Aston Villa, who host title chasing Arsenal on Saturday. Plus, we look at the fixtures elsewhere with drop ins from the club podcasts across our network. Host: Adam Leventhal With: Tim Spiers, Jon Mackenzie, Jacob Tanswell, Liam Tharme, James McNicholas Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Only a week into the season but it appears Napoli boss Antonio Conte has already gone full Conte. After an opening day defeat he said his side "melted like snow in the sunshine”. So how can Napoli avoid another disappointing season after their title triumph in 2023? Is moving on Victor Osimhen and reuniting Conte with Romelu Lukaku the answer? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: James Horncastle and Jack Pitt-Brooke Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

So Manchester City have now reached agreement with Ilkay Gundogan over a free transfer from Barcelona. So is it a no-brainer for City to bring back a player they let go just 12 months ago? And why are Barca willing to allow one of their best players to leave so soon?  Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Sam Lee and Pol Ballús Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It felt like a host of top clubs would be queuing up to sign Brentford striker Ivan Toney this summer. He’s been linked with a lucrative move to the Saudi Pro League But where is the interest from Premier League clubs for the England international? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Jay Harris and Liam Tharme Additional reporting: Laurie Whitwell, James McNicholas, Sam Lee Producers: Abi Paterson & Guy Clarke Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Once again we’re asking what is going on at Stamford Bridge. So after being unhappy at being left out for the season opener. What now for Raheem Sterling at Chelsea?  Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Oli Kay and Liam Twomey Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to The Preview on The Athletic FC, where each week we’ll be going deep on the biggest game of the weekend. This week — Opening week! — we’re focusing on the ever-changing Chelsea, who host Premier League champions Manchester City on Sunday. Plus, which Chelsea player would start for City, and a look at the fixtures elsewhere with drop ins from the club podcasts across our network. Host: Michael Bailey With: Tim Spiers, Jon Mackenzie, Liam Twomey, Sam Lee Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After missing out on European football last season, it’s been a summer of uncertainty at Newcastle United. Changes in the boardroom have seen Eddie Howe lose a key ally in Amanda Staveley and with a new Sporting Director Newcastle are yet to truly flex their strength in the transfer market. So will Newcastle do the business they need and is the manager’s position vulnerable? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Newcastle United writer Chris Waugh and The Athletic FC's lead newsletter writer Phil Hay to analyse the changes at St James' Park with football correspondent David Ornstein sharing the latest on their pursuit of Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Chris Waugh, Phil Hay and David Ornstein Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Liverpool have been rejected. So why has Martín Zubimendi turned down a move to Anfield under new manager Arne Slot? And are they at risk of being left behind by their busy rivals in the transfer market?  Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Phil Hay and Simon Hughes Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s been a year since the departure of Harry Kane from Tottenham. But with record signing Dominic Solanke are Tottenham finally replacing their all-time record goalscorer? And what can we expect from Ange Postecoglou’s second season in charge at Spurs? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Jack Pitt-Brooke and Seb Stafford-Bloor  Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

New coaches, new CEO, new Sporting Director - you name it - it’s been a summer, of upheaval at Manchester United. That's before you even look at the transfer market! But will the changes be enough for the drastic, improvement needed after finishing 8th in the Premier League last season? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Manchester United writers, and Talk of the Devils regulars Laurie Whitwell and Carl Anka to assess how Erik Ten Hag's men are preparing for the new season, while David Ornstein drops in with his take on the club's dealings in the transfer window. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/talk-of-the-devils-the-athletic-fcs-manchester-united-show/id1495072403?uo=4 Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Laurie Whitwell and Carl Anka Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pep Guardiola has entered the final year of his Manchester City contract. With the uncertainty around many players futures, and the 115 charges still looming, could this be the end of an era at Manchester City?  Adam Levethal is joined by Phil Hay, lead writer for The Athletic FC newsletter as well as our Manchester City writer Sam Lee to reflect on their eventful U.S tour, Julian Alvarez's potential €95m move to Atletico Madrid, and discuss whether this could be Pep Guardiola's last season in Manchester. Host: Adam Leventhal With: Phil Hay and Sam Lee Executive Producer: Abi Paterson Producer: Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With just one win in five games, Chelsea’s US Tour hasn’t quite gone to plan, conceding four goals apiece to both Celtic and Manchester City along the way. New boss Enzo Maresca blamed ‘old habits’ for their defensive misgivings after his side’s latest defeat to Real Madrid. So, with the Premier League season just over a week away what should we expect from Chelsea?  Ayo Akinwolere is joined by Phil Hay, lead writer for The Athletic FC newsletter as well as our Chelsea writer Liam Twomey to analyse their pre-season preparations, discuss how Maresca has settled as well as touching on the ever-chaotic transfer business heading in and out of Stamford Bridge. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Phil Hay and Liam Twomey Executive Producer: Abi Paterson Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Fresh off an outstanding Euro 2024 campaign with Spain, Dani Olmo is close to a 60 million euro move to Barcelona. But given their ongoing financial issues, how are Barca affording this? And with plenty of stars already established in midfield, do they even need Olmo? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Pol Ballús and Tomás Hill López-Menchero Executive Producer: Abi Paterson Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On today’s podcast we bring you our reporter Adam Crafton’s exclusive interview with Zlatan Ibrahimovic. With 561 goals for club and country and 12 league titles across four countries - he is truly one of football’s greats. You’ll hear the former Manchester United, PSG, Milan and Sweden striker open up on his childhood, his tattoos, how Jose Mourinho got the best out of him, and… viewing himself as ‘God’. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Adam Crafton Executive Producer: Abi Paterson Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Despite going close in each of the past two seasons, Arsenal have ultimately finished both empty-handed. So is this the season Mikel Arteta finally delivers the Premier League title? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Art De Roche as well as Handbrake Off regular and former Arsenal winger Adrian Clarke to assess Arsenal's title chances ahead of the new season. Italian football correspondent James Horncastle also shares his thoughts on the Gunners move for Riccardo Calafiori following his move to North London from Bologna. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Art De Roche and Adrian Clarke Executive Producer: Abi Paterson Producer: Guy Clarke Related articles: Riccardo Calafiori, Arsenal’s new defender who got lifts from De Rossi and models his game on Stones - The Athletic The five games Arsenal failed to score in last season: What lessons can be learned - The Athletic Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Arsenal, Manchester United and Liverpool are just some of the teams in America during pre-season supposedly giving back to their fans abroad. But is it enough? Do Premier League teams need to play competitive matches away from England to truly make this a global game? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by Adam Crafton to discuss the importance of pre-season tours in the US for Premier League clubs with the likes of James McNicholas, Laurie Whitwell, Sam Lee and James Pearce also sharing their views while on tour. Iain Macintosh also catches up with supporters in LA to ask how willing supporters in the USA are to see the teams they support play overseas. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Adam Crafton Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Spain are deservedly champions of Europe. So why are England once again unable to take the final step? And will it be Gareth Southgate’s final game as manager?  Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Oli Kay, David Ornstein, Pol Ballus Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producers: Guy Clarke & Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lamine Yamal turns 17 the day before Spain’s Euro 2024 final against England and he’s already produced the moment of the tournament with his wonder goal in the semi-final win over France. So how did he get so good so young?  And will his club side Barcelona be able to keep hold of him in the long term? Adam Leventhal is joined by The Athletic's Pol Ballus, who is out in Germany covering Spain at Euro 2024 as well as La Liga writer Dermot Corrigan is analyse the rise of Lamine Yamal and look ahead to what could await him on his return to Barcelona. Host: Adam Leventhal With: Pol Ballus and Dermot Corrigan Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Related articles: Perfection, by Lamine Yamal - The Athletic The story behind the viral photos of Lionel Messi and a baby Lamine Yamal - The Athletic Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

England left it late, but thanks for Ollie Watkins' last minute winner are through to the final at Euro 2024. So are they now good, or just really lucky having relied on a number of big moments throughout the tournament? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Oli Kay who was in Dortmund for the 2-1 win over the Netherlands as well as Jack Pitt-Brooke and Tim Spiers to analyse England's route to the final and the role of manager Gareth Southgate.  Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Oli Kay, Jack Pitt-Brooke and Tim Spiers Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Related articles: England, a team of comebacks, late winners and finals. These are extraordinary times - The Athletic Ollie Watkins, Cole Palmer and an England goal that was worth the wait - The Athletic Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On Friday, Arne Slot was officially unveiled as head coach in a new era at Liverpool. Yesterday, The Athletic reported that the club’s owners FSG are interested in purchasing French club Bordeaux. So what is the plan, and how would it benefit Liverpool? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: James Pearce, Matt Slater Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Manchester United are working to finalise a deal for Bologna forward Joshua Zirkzee. His performances in Italy have earned him a spot in the Dutch squad for the Euros.  So is Zirkzee an upgrade on United’s existing forward options?  Or could they be about to make a move for a more experienced Premier League striker?  Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: David Ornstein and Carl Anka Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

England are through to the semi-final at Euro 2024 after seeing off Switzerland on penalties. Yet for Gareth Southgate’s side there were familiar problems in Dusseldorf with Harry Kane again struggling to make an impact. No doubt he’ll start Wednesday’s semi-final against the Netherlands but should he?  Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's senior football writer Oli Kay as well as Jacob Whitehead to discuss Kane's role ahead of Wednesday's meeting in Dortmund. Football tactics writer Ahmed Walid also drops in to join in the conversation around the rest of the semi-finalists leading forwards while Pol Ballus explains the importance of Alvaro Morata to Spain both on and off the pitch. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Oli Kay, Jacob Whitehead and Ahmed Walid Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Related articles Is Harry Kane in danger of becoming England’s Cristiano Ronaldo? - The Athletic Memphis Depay vs Wout Weghorst: The striker debate which cuts to the heart of Dutch football - The Athletic Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Just weeks after considering managerial replacements, Manchester United have extended Erik ten Hag’s contract until 2026. With so much structural change at the club, is this a genuine show of faith in the manager? And with preseason starting Monday, what are the problems that still need to be fixed before the Premier League returns? Host: Adam Leventhal With: Mark Critchley, Dan Sheldon Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Try as he might, Cristiano Ronaldo is still waiting for his first goal at Euro 2024, despite having 20 shots at goal during the tournament so far. Maybe, time is finally catching up with the 39 year old. If that’s the case - is the power and influence Ronaldo has on this Portugal side still worth it? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by Oli Kay, who was in the Frankfurt Arena for Portugal's last 16 tie with Slovenia on Monday night, as well as Tim Spiers to analyse what Ronaldo brings both on and off the pitch ahead of Friday's quarter-final against France. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Oli Kay and Tim Spiers Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Related articles: Cristiano Ronaldo cannot rage against the dying of the light forever - The Athletic The cult of Cristiano Ronaldo - The Athletic Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tottenham have won the race for teenage sensation Archie Gray, seeing off competition from the likes of Brentford and Borussia Dortmund. Leeds United said they were heartbroken after seeing him go - so why did they let their academy star leave? And what does the signing of Gray tell us about Spurs’ summer transfer policy?  Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Nancy Froston and Jay Harris Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Less than a month into this summer’s transfer window, one crucial deadline has already passed as club’s scrambled to comply with PSR. Amongst those were Newcastle United, so how did they find a way to balance the books? And what is the situation at St James’ Park for the rest of the summer transfer window? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's football correspondent David Ornstein and Newcastle United writer Chris Waugh to analyse a frantic weekend of dealing. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: David Ornstein and Chris Waugh Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Inside Newcastle’s frantic attempts to sell players and comply with PSR - The Athletic Manchester United agree deal with Newcastle to appoint Dan Ashworth as new sporting director - The Athletic Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

England have squeezed through to the quarter-finals of Euro 2024 thanks in part to a moment of genius from who else but Jude Bellingham. It was an underwhelming performance, but post match the England midfielder silenced critics. So, does it matter how England play as long as they win? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Jack Pitt-Brooke, Jacob Whitehead Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After three lacklustre displays - France failed to top their group at a major tournament for the first time in 12 years. Their two goals so far at Euro 2024 have consisted of an own goal and a penalty, so what is going wrong for Didier Deschamps’ side?  And how much good will is left in the bank from their 2018 World Cup triumph? Host: Adam Leventhal With: Tom Williams, Pierre-Etienne Minonzio Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

At Euro 2024, there is one team everyone seems to have a soft spot for, and they have probably been the most impressive. Ralf Rangnick's Austria finished top of their group and are into the knock out stages. The German manager seems to have put his difficult spell at Manchester United behind him, so how has he transformed this Austrian team and how far can they go? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Seb Stafford-Bloor, Mark Carey, Mark Critchley Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

So, England are through to the last 16 of Euro 2024 as group winners but once again were underwhelming in their 0-0 draw with Slovenia. Could turning to Cole Palmer and Kobbie Mainoo be the solutions to the puzzle Gareth Southgate needs to solve if England are to progress much further? And what did Southgate's comments post-match reveal about how he's handling the challenge of managing at this tournament? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Oli Kay and Matt Slater, who were both in Cologne as well as football tactics writer Liam Tharme to analyse whether or not England can still succeed with Southgate. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Oli Kay, Matt Slater and Liam Tharme Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Related articles: Gareth Southgate understands England fan reaction after objects thrown at him following Slovenia draw - The Athletic Euro 2024 and the lopsided draw affecting which teams are considered likely finalists - The Athletic Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to the latest edition of The Transfer DealSheet, our guide to the summer transfer window. David Ornstein brings us the latest developments across the Premier League and beyond. And after a flurry of homegrown transfer deals emerged over the weekend ahead of that June 30th financial deadline. Have Premier League clubs found a PSR loophole? Host: Adam Leventhal  With: David Ornstein, Liam Twomey & Peter Rutzler Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Having grown synonymous with their tiki-taka style of play, Spain have so far shown another side at Euro 2024, in beating both Croatia and Italy. So why have Spain moved away from their patient, possession-based approach and will this summer's transfer window see clubs take advantage of the release clause in the contract of one of their most promising stars Nico Williams? Michael Bailey is joined by The Athletic's Pol Ballus, who's in Germany covering Spain during the Euros as well as our La Liga writer Dermot Corrigan. Host: Michael Bailey With: Pol Ballus and Dermot Corrigan Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Related articles: Spain’s tiki-taka era might be over – but its legacy continues to divide - The Athletic Spain’s Nico Williams serves notice – his €55m release clause looks a transfer bargain - The Athletic Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Germany have been one of the most dominant sides so far at this summer’s Euros. They’ve already qualified for the knockout stages after impressive wins over Hungary and Scotland. So how has Julian Nagelsmann put his Bayern Munich disappointment behind him and reinvented this Germany team so quickly? And what could the future hold for him beyond his time with the national team? Host: Michael Bailey With: Seb Stafford-Bloor and Liam Tharme Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Euros may have already exploded into action - but tonight comes Copa America! As ever Brazil are amongst the tournament favourites - but will they deliver and what impact has the cloud hanging over Lucas Paqueta had on their preparations? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by Brazilian football journalists Renato Senise and The Athletic's Thom Harris who is out in Miami ahead of the start of the tournament. Football news reporter Tom Burrows also drops in to explain the latest around Paqueta following the FA charges he is facing. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Thom Harris, Renato Senise and Tom Burrows Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Copa America 2024 preview: The Athletic’s complete guide to the tournament - The Athletic ‘Paqueta should be banned for life if he’s guilty. Do I see it happening? Probably not’ - The Athletic Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Portugal’s Euro 2024 campaign got off to a winning start last night, with a late show from their substitutes. But it was far from a convincing performance by Roberto Martinez’s unbalanced and chaotic side. So, does the Spaniard know how to get the best out of this talented Portugal squad led by Cristiano Ronaldo? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Tim Spiers and David Novo Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Mike Stavrou Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With the transfer window now officially open, Manchester United have wasted no time in making their intentions clear, submitting a bid for Everton's Jarrad Branthwaite. Despite the deal being rejected, Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's David Ornstein brings us the latest developments alongside Everton writer Paddy Boyland. Plus Liverpool also have their eye on a central defender who is also a target for United & Real Madrid. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: David Ornstein and Paddy Boyland Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Related articles: Manchester United make opening £35m offer for Jarrad Branthwaite - The Athletic Why Jarrad Branthwaite makes sense for Man Utd – a two-footed duel winner - The Athletic Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

England’s Euro 2024 is up and running with a win over Serbia.  With their superstar talents, is there perhaps a whiff of arrogance by those who follow Gareth Soutgate’s team? And what is the view across Europe where Kane & Bellingham have starred for Spain & Germany’s biggest clubs. Are they drawn to the allure of the box-office stars, or is it the possibility of watching England fall short again? Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: Oli Kay, Jack Pitt-Brooke, James Horncastle, Dermot Corrigan, Seb Stafford-Bloor Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After weeks of uncertainty, news broke on Tuesday that Erik Ten Hag is to remain as manager of Manchester United. So why have Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS come to this decision and what will Ten Hag’s relationship with his squad and the owners look like moving forward? Ayo Akinwolere is joined by David Ornstein, Adam Crafton and Mark Critchley to analyse Man United’s decision and assess who else was considered for the Old Trafford hotseat ahead of looking ahead to what challenges lay ahead. Host: Ayo Akinwolere With: David Ornstein, Adam Crafton and Mark Critchley Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Guy Clarke Related articles Inside Erik ten Hag’s Manchester United reprieve: Tuchel, De Zerbi and the key meetings - The Athletic Erik ten Hag to stay as Manchester United manager - The Athletic Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to another edition of The Transfer DealSheet, our guide to the summer transfer market where David Ornstein will bring us latest developments across the Premier League and beyond. We take a deep dive on the market in Spain, including Barcelona's admiration for Liverpool's Luis Diaz. Plus, after securing Kylian Mbappe, what’s holding up Real Madrid’s pursuit of Alphonso Davies Host: Adam Leventhal With: David Ornstein, Dermot Corrigan, Pol Ballus Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead Producer: Jay Beale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to episode 12 of The Radar, where The Athletic's unrivalled range of global football experts will profile some of the game's most exciting up and coming talents who look set to star at this summer’s European Championships and Copa América. 21-year-old Florian Wirtz has taken German football by storm since his emergence at Bayer Leverkusen back in 2020. A superstar in their extraordinary unbeaten run to Bundesliga glory - will he also help inspire the hosts to European success in his own backyard? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to episode 11 of The Radar, where The Athletic's unrivalled range of global football experts will profile some of the game's most exciting up and coming talents who look set to star at this summer’s European Championships and Copa América. 21-year-old forward Johan Bakayoko has made a name for himself in a bold, attacking PSV Eindhoven team which fits his skill set perfectly.  One of the most watchable young players in Europe at the moment - will the Belgian light up this tournament and put him in the shop window for a lucrative transfer to the Premier League or beyond? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to episode 10 of The Radar, where The Athletic's unrivalled range of global football experts will profile some of the game's most exciting up and coming talents who look set to star at this summer’s European Championships and Copa América. Kendry Páez has been making quite the mark for club and country since he burst onto the youth football scene in 2022. He became the youngest player ever to represent Ecuador - and the second youngest South American to ever play international football behind a certain Diego Maradona. With a highly-anticipated move to Chelsea on the horizon - could he be the player that sets this summer’s Copa América alight? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to episode 9 of The Radar, where The Athletic's unrivalled range of global football experts will profile some of the game's most exciting up and coming talents who look set to star at this summer’s European Championships and Copa América. 21-year-old child prodigy Xavi Simons is at a crossroads in his career after making the high profile switch from Barcelona to PSG.  Standout loan spells at PSV and RB Leipzig over the last two seasons have got everyone asking what Xavi’s next move will be - but first, will he showcase his star quality out in Germany? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to episode 8 of The Radar, where The Athletic's unrivalled range of global football experts will profile some of the game's most exciting up and coming talents who look set to star at this summer’s European Championships and Copa América. 20-year-old all-action Watford midfielder Yáser Asprilla has made it his business to score absolute screamers for the Hornets since arriving at Vicarage Road in 2022. Following in the footsteps of the Colombian great James Rodríguez isn’t going to be easy - but could he be about to explode onto the international stage? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to episode 7 of The Radar, where The Athletic's unrivalled range of global football experts will profile some of the game's most exciting up and coming talents who look set to star at this summer’s European Championships and Copa América. RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Šeško has long been touted as one of the next great strikers - linked with some of the world’s biggest clubs and hype around him reaching fever pitch ahead of a potential move this summer… Slovenia may not be anyone’s favourites to cause a shock at Euro 2024 - but could their centre forward make his mark and show why he’s considered one of the purest number 9’s in the world? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to episode 6 of The Radar, where The Athletic's unrivalled range of global football experts will profile some of the game's most exciting up and coming talents who look set to star at this summer’s European Championships and Copa América. 20-year-old midfielder Marcelo Flores began his footballing education at Ipswich Town and Arsenal - but has a point to prove after failing to make a real breakthrough in his time at The Emirates.  Now back in Mexico and coming off the back of a successful domestic campaign with Tigres - can his youthful exuberance see him live up to the billing as his country's most exciting prospect? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to episode 5 of The Radar, where The Athletic's unrivalled range of global football experts will profile some of the game's most exciting up and coming talents who look set to star at this summer’s European Championships and Copa América. 19-year-old Benfica midfielder João Neves has followed in the footsteps of Bernardo Silva, Darwin Núñez, João Félix and Rúben Dias to come through the Portuguese Champions’ academy.  Quick, agile and technically gifted with formidable tackling ability, stamina and composure - will this summer’s Euros be the stage upon which he really announces himself to the world? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to episode 4 of The Radar, where The Athletic's unrivalled range of global football experts will profile some of the game's most exciting up and coming talents who look set to star at this summer’s European Championships and Copa América.  22-year-old USA international Folarin Balogun’s every move has been watched with intrigue since his permanent move from Arsenal to Monaco.  After a somewhat difficult start to life on the Côte d'Azur - will he make the number 9 jersey his own this summer prove his worth to the US men’s national team on home soil? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices