The Athletic FC Podcast

Can anyone stop Real Madrid?

<p>On Saturday Real Madrid were confirmed as La Liga champions for a record-extending 36th time, following Barcelona's 4-2 defeat at Girona.</p><p>So how did they do it, why was this title not as easy as it looked and can anyone stop Real Madrid being European football’s dominant force? </p><p>Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Madrid-based writer Dermot Corrigan and Junior Spanish Editor Tomas Hill Lopez-Menchero to analyse how Carlo Ancelotti's side have managed to write their own page in Madrid's illustrious history.</p><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: Dermot Corrigan and Tomas Hill Lopez-Menchero</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p>Producer: Guy Clarke</p><p>Related articles:</p><p><a href="https://theathletic.com/5469061/2024/05/04/real-madrid-la-liga-title-winners-bellingham-vinicius-jr-ancelotti/">How Real Madrid won La Liga – artful Ancelotti, brilliant Bellingham and unlikely new heroes</a> - The Athletic</p><p><a href="https://theathletic.com/5470019/2024/05/06/real-madrid-barcelona-la-liga-title/">Real Madrid’s ‘dystopian’ dominance – Barcelona and La Liga rivals are way behind</a> - The Athletic</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Will Arsenal or City slip up in the title race?

<p>It’s matchday 36 in the Premier League and the title race is once again the main focus. Arsenal host Bournemouth while Man City go up against Wolves.</p><br><p>Elsewhere, in the relegation battle, it’s Luton vs Everton, Burnley vs Newcastle and Sheffield United vs Nottingham Forest.</p><br><p>Host: Adam Leventhal</p><p>With: Tim Spiers, Andy Jones and Jordan Campbell</p><p>Producer: Mike Stavrou</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

New Premier League financial rules explained

<p>So on Monday Premier League clubs opted to push on with plans for a hard spending limit — a de facto salary cap tied to the income of the lowest earning side in the top flight.</p><p>Why do some clubs want more financial regulation? Who is pushing back against it? And could this end up with legal action?</p><p>The Athletic's senior football news reporter Matt Slater joins Ayo Akinwolere to explain the concept of 'anchoring' as well as answering questions submitted by subscribers to The Athletic over the Premier League's proposed new spending controls.</p><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: Matt Slater</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p>Producer: Guy Clarke</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Inside Xavi's bizarre Barcelona U-turn

<p>Back in January, Xavi announced he would be stepping down as Barcelona boss at the end of the season, citing the role as a “cruel job” that “wears you down”.</p><br><p>But last week, he and Barca changed their minds - yet another twist in a rollercoaster season for the Catalans.</p><br><p>So, why did Barca perform a dramatic U-turn on Xavi’s future? </p><br><p>How strong is his position now?</p><br><p>And can Xavi be backed in this summer’s transfer market to the level he now expects? </p><br><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: Pol Ballús and Tomás Hill López-Menchero</p><p>Producer: Mike Stavrou</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Salah set to stay at Liverpool - but for how long?

<p>Mohamed Salah’s heated exchange with Jurgen Klopp last weekend left many questioning whether the forward would join his manager in leaving Liverpool this summer.</p><br><p>Then as The Athletic revealed on Monday, Liverpool expect Salah to stay this summer and are planning on him being part of their squad for next season.</p><br><p>So, with his future back on the agenda, what are Liverpool’s options with or without their iconic forward?</p><br><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: David Ornstein and James Pearce</p><p>Producer: Mike Stavrou</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Can Project Postecoglou make Spurs contenders?

<p>Arsenal were too much for Tottenham in yesterday’s North London derby, running out 3-2 winners at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.</p><p>After the games, Spurs boss Ange Postecoglou said his team needs to deal with the “details” to be contenders.</p><p>So what exactly are the fine margins they are missing? </p><p>And will it be enough to get to the next step and challenge next season?</p><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: Jack Pitt-Brooke and Seb Stafford-Bloor</p><p>Producer: Guy Clarke</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Can Spurs halt Arsenal's title charge?

<p>It’s matchday 35 in the Premier League and it’s a huge north London derby as Arsenal go to Spurs hoping to stay in the title race.</p><br><p>Elsewhere, Man City go to Nottingham Forest and West Ham host Liverpool.</p><br><p>Host: Adam Leventhal</p><p>With: Tim Spiers, Charlie Eccleshare and Jay Harris</p><p>Producer: Mike Stavrou</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Is Slot the right man for Liverpool?

<p>Almost three months on from Jurgen Klopp announcing his intention to stand down, Liverpool have earmarked the man they’d like to replace him.</p><p>So why do Liverpool want Feyenoord’s Arne Slot?</p><p>And is he the right personality to replace Klopp at Anfield? </p><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: David Ornstein and Adam Crafton</p><p>Producer: Guy Clarke</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Inzaghi and Inter: What next?

<p>Playing an exciting brand of attacking football it’s no wonder Simone Inzaghi is now being linked to high-profile managerial jobs in England and abroad.</p><br><p>But is he better off staying in Italy and a resurgent Serie A? </p><br><p>Or does uncertainty around finance and the ownership at Inter mean now is the time for a new challenge?</p><br><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: James Horncastle</p><p>Producer: Mike Stavrou</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Will Ruben Amorim be a Premier League manager next season?

<p>On Monday, The Athletic revealed that West Ham have held talks with Sporting Lisbon boss Ruben Amorim to be their next manager… </p><br><p>He is also being looked at to replace Jurgen Klopp at Liverpool</p><br><p>So who is Ruben Amorim and why is he in such high demand? </p><br><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: David Ornstein and Mark Carey</p><p>Producer: Mike Stavrou</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Why Man United's Wembley embarrassment runs deep

<p>Before taking his seat at Wembley, Sir Jim Ratcliffe completed the London Marathon and compared the race, to the job he has to do at Old Trafford.</p><p>Seeing his boyhood side reach a second successive FA Cup Final was only have the story though as Erik Ten Hag's side almost squandered a 3-0 lead to be dumped out by Coventry City.</p><p>So will success in the FA Cup show enough progress for Ten Hag to remain in position, or do United's problems run deeper than just their manager?</p><p>Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Carl Anka and Mark Critchley who were both at Wembley to discuss.</p><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: Carl Anka and Mark Critchley</p><p>Producer: Guy Clarke</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p>Related articles</p><p><a href="https://theathletic.com/5434116/2024/04/22/united-ten-hag-ratcliffe-coventry-semi/">Manchester United’s semi-final win was no turning point for Ten Hag – it was a tipping point</a> - The Athletic</p><p><a href="https://theathletic.com/5425361/2024/04/19/united-manager-ten-hag/">If Manchester United move on from Ten Hag, who does the data say they should target?</a> - The Athletic</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Can Palmer haunt City again?

<p>It’s matchday 34 in the Premier League as Arsenal go to Wolves in the big clash in the title race.</p><br><p>Elsewhere, it’s the FA Cup semi-finals, as Chelsea face Man City and Manchester United go up against Coventry City.</p><br><p>Host: Adam Leventhal</p><p>With: Tim Spiers and Liam Twomey</p><p>Producer: Mike Stavrou </p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

How ruthless can Arsenal be this summer?

<p>On Wednesday night, Arsenal's Champions League hopes were ended in Munich, in their first quarter-final at that level in 14 years.</p><p>Afterwards Mikel Arteta was left lost for words in how to console his side, while they also remain in the Premier League title race.</p><p>So how can the Spaniard ensure the Gunners season doesn't peter out, how ruthless can they be in this summer's transfer window - or should Arteta be able to get more from the squad already at his disposal?</p><p>Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's David Ornstein and Art de Roche to discuss and analyse how different Arsenal could look the other side of the summer transfer window.</p><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: David Ornstein and Art de Roche</p><p>Producer: Guy Clarke</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p>Related articles:</p><p><a href="https://theathletic.com/5424687/2024/04/18/arsenal-bayern-munich-champions-league/">Arsenal’s progress this season will be undermined if their title challenge fizzles out</a> - The Athletic</p><p><a href="https://theathletic.com/5416160/2024/04/16/jesus-zinchenko-arsenal-arteta-evolution/">Arsenal are evolving at a pace that could leave Zinchenko, Jesus and others behind</a> - The Athletic</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Are Premier League matches heading to the U.S.?

<p>Last night were were reminded why the Champions League is the biggest draw in world football.</p><br><p>Meanwhile, FIFA seem to be stepping back in the battle to stop competitive games being taken abroad.</p><br><p>So, could we one day see the Premier League or La Liga decided in the USA? Or the UEFA Champions League final in Saudi Arabia?</p><br><p>Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Matt Slater and Adam Crafton.</p><br><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: Matt Slater and Adam Crafton</p><p>Producer: Mike Stavrou</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Why Leverkusen's title is just the beginning

<p>On Sunday, Bayer Leverkusen won the first league title in their 120-year history, and the celebrations were wild.</p><br><p>Still to play for this season; a potential treble and the chance to go the entire season unbeaten.</p><br><p>But is Xabi Alonso staying enough to keep his squad together next season? </p><br><p>Is it still even possible for this team to go to the next level and break into Europe's elite?</p><br><p>Or, is this as good as it gets for Leverkusen? </p><br><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: Raphael Honigstein, Seb Stafford-Bloor</p><p>Producer: Mike Stavrou</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Why is Klopp's Liverpool farewell faltering?

<p>At Anfield on Sunday, Liverpool’s terrible week got a whole lot worse.</p><p>A shock 1-0 defeat to Crystal Palace has dealt a blow to Jurgen Klopp’s hopes of a second Premier League title and they have a mountain to climb in the Europa League, trailing Atalanta 3-0.</p><p>So why are Liverpool faltering at the business end of the season? </p><p>And can they still turn it round?</p><p>Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Oli Kay and James Pearce to assess and analyse where things have gone wrong for Jurgen Klopp's side having gone from potential quadruple winners to seeing his reign possibly end with a whimper.</p><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: James Pearce and Oli Kay</p><p>Producer: Guy Clarke</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p>Related articles:</p><p><a href="https://theathletic.com/5414503/2024/04/15/liverpool-10-misses-ranked-premier-league-title/">The 10 misses that might have ended Liverpool’s Premier League title bid</a> - The Athletic</p><p><a href="https://theathletic.com/5410972/2024/04/13/liverpool-clean-sheets/">Liverpool’s failure to keep clean sheets is proving deeply damaging</a> - The Athletic</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Can Villa rattle Arsenal again?

<p>It’s matchday 33 in the Premier League and Arsenal host Aston Villa as they look to hold on to top spot in the league table.</p><br><p>Elsewhere, Spurs go to Newcastle and Chelsea play Everton.</p><br><p>Host: Adam Leventhal</p><p>With: Jon Mackenzie, Art de Roché &amp;<strong> </strong>Tim Spiers</p><p>Producer: Mike Stavrou and Jay Beale</p><p>Executive Producer: Adam Jones</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Is PSG’s Galacticos era over?

<p>After overseeing a 27-game unbeaten run, Luis Enrique’s PSG fell to defeat at home to Barcelona on Wednesday night, losing 3-2 in their Champions League quarter final first leg.</p><p>So why did Kylian Mbappe struggle to impact the kind of game he’s been renowned for owning in previous years and is he at risk of seeing his PSG career end with a whimper?</p><p>As for Enrique, is he the man to finally push the Parisians over the line to become a serious contender in years to come?</p><p>Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Peter Rutzler as well as Pierre-Etienne Minonzio of L'Equipe.</p><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: Peter Rutzler and Pierre-Etienne Minonzio</p><p>Producer: Guy Clarke</p><p>Executive Producer: Adam Jones</p><p>Related articles:</p><p><a href="https://theathletic.com/5407248/2024/04/11/mbappe-champions-league-barcelona/">Mbappe surely cannot bow out so quietly in Barcelona</a> - The Athletic</p><p><a href="https://theathletic.com/5399131/2024/04/09/dembele-psg-barcelona-revival/">How Paris Saint-Germain made Ousmane Dembele ‘extraordinary’ again</a> - The Athletic</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Will Diego Simeone ever leave Atletico Madrid?

<p>Diego Simeone and Atletico Madrid have enjoyed and endured a 12-year love affair and it is hard to imagine one without the other. He has overseen both unbelievable highs and crushing lows.</p><br><p>This season - Atletico are on course for their worst finish in La Liga since Simeone’s first year in charge, but could another Champions League run galvanize his team once again?</p><br><p>And with plenty of big clubs looking for ,managers this summer, why isn’t his name mentioned in the conversations anymore?</p><br><p>Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Dermot Corrigan &amp; Tomás Hill López-Menchero.</p><br><p>HOST: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>WITH: Dermot Corrigan &amp; Tomás Hill López-Menchero</p><p>PRODUCER: Mike Stavrou</p><p>EXECUTIVE PRODUCER: Adam Jones</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Is Arteta building a dynasty at Arsenal?

<p>Mikel Arteta takes charge of Arsenal’s first Champions League quarter final in 14 years on Tuesday night.</p><p>Top of the Premier League and with the opportunity to make a serious statement in Europe, how has Arteta revived this Arsenal side?</p><p>And with Jurgen Klopp leaving and Pep Guardiola’s long-term Manchester City future uncertain, is he ready to build a dynasty in north London?</p><br><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: Jordan Campbell, Art de Roché, Amy Lawrence</p><p>Producer: Jay Beale</p><p>Executive Producer: Adam Jones</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Should Man United persist with Ten Hag next season?

<p>On Sunday Old Trafford witnessed more mayhem as Manchester United and Liverpool played out a 2-2 draw.</p><p>Despite facing another 28 shots, Man United emerged with a point, but was that through luck or design?</p><p>So has Erik Ten Hag done enough to convince INEOS he’s worth persisting with into next season?</p><p>And with so much change coming behind the scenes over the summer…can Man United turn chaos into control?</p><p>Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Adam Crafton and Mark Critchley to discuss and debate the Dutchman's future.</p><p>HOST: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>WITH: Adam Crafton and Mark Critchley</p><p>PRODUCER: Guy Clarke</p><p>EXECUTIVE PRODUCER: Adam Jones</p><p>Related articles:</p><p><a href="https://theathletic.com/5397962/2024/04/08/man-united-draw-liverpool-ten-hag/">Baffling, beguiling and bewildering: trying to explain this Manchester United</a> - The Athletic</p><p><a href="https://theathletic.com/5391567/2024/04/05/ten-hag-manchester-united-future-murtough/">Ten Hag’s Manchester United future: Open to operating as head coach, Murtough to leave</a> - The Athletic</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Weekend Preview: Can chaotic Man United beat Liverpool again?

<p>It’s matchday 32 in the Premier League and Manchester United host Liverpool in a match that will have big implications on the title race.</p><br><p>Elsewhere, Burnley go to Everton and Luton play Bournemouth.</p><br><p>Host: Adam Leventhal</p><p>With: Jon Mackenzie, Mark Critchley and Andy Jones</p><p>Producer: Mike Stavrou and Jay Beale</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Why Champions League qualification isn't a ‘golden ticket’

<p>Last night, Aston Villa stumbled in pursuit of securing a top four place in the Premier League losing 4-1 away to Manchester City.</p><p>But as Newcastle have shown this season, despite the money in brings in, qualifying for Europe puts a huge strain on smaller squads especially when financial rules make it harder to spend.</p><p>And as Ange Postecoglou commented in the week, Champions League qualification doesn't necessarily provide what clubs are seeking, if they're unable to push on and compete.</p><p>Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Tottenham writer Jack Pitt-Brooke, Aston Villa writer Jacob Tanswell and Newcastle United writer Chris Waugh to discuss how the Premier League's growing collection of upwardly ambitious clubs sustained continued Champions League qualification amid the backdrop of strict financial spending limits.</p><p>HOST: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>WITH: Jack Pitt-Brooke, Jacob Tanswell and Chris Waugh</p><p>PRODUCER: Guy Clarke</p><p>EXECUTIVE PRODUCER: Adey Moorhead</p><p>Related articles:</p><p><a href="https://theathletic.com/5385418/2024/04/04/aston-villa-unai-emery-planning-practice/">Unai Emery is all about planning – there was a point to Villa’s ‘practice’ and chaos</a> - The Athletic</p><p><a href="https://theathletic.com/5377168/2024/04/01/tottenham-hotspur-stadium-beyonce-nfl-profit/?access_token=11260232">Beyonce, NFL and boxing help make Tottenham Hotspur Stadium a cash machine</a> - The Athletic</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Could De Zerbi or Frank manage at the very top?

<p>Tonight, Thomas Frank and Roberto de Zerbi go head-to-head in what some might call the data derby… </p><p>Brentford and Brighton may adopt a similar approach behind the scenes, but how do their sought after coaches compare, and who is the most likely to fill a managerial vacancy elsewhere this summer?  </p><p>And what are the reasons for the long running feud between the owners of the two clubs dating back to 2004? </p><p>Produced by Jay Beale</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

How do Chelsea turn turmoil into triumph?

<p>Chelsea’s difficult season continued as Mauricio Pochettino’s side were held to a 2-2 draw by 10-man Burnley at the weekend..</p><br><p>There’s division among the fans, a billion pound squad yet to gel, and growing pressure on the manager.</p><br><p>So can Chelsea salvage something from their remaining games? </p><br><p>And after all the instability this season will there be another summer of sweeping change?</p><br><p>Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic’s Tim Spiers and our Chelsea writer Liam Twomey, who is also part of another podcast on this network: Straight Outta Cobham.</p><br><p>Produced by Mike Stavrou</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Who do Liverpool target after Alonso decision?

<p>On the pitch Liverpool have seized the initiative in the Premier League title race following their 2-1 win over Brighton &amp; Hove Albion on Sunday.</p><p>Yet off the pitch, uncertainty lingers after Xabi Alonso confirmed last week he'll be staying with Bayer Leverkusen, ruling himself out of the running to replace Jurgen Klopp at Anfield.</p><p>So where do Liverpool turn next and who will be on their managerial shortlist to replace Klopp?</p><p>Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's David Ornstein and Oli Kay to discuss Alonso's decision to stay at Leverkusen before debating the process the Reds will go through with their new sporting director Richard Hughes to find a successor for Klopp.</p><p>Produced by Guy Clarke</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p>Related Articles:</p><p><a href="https://theathletic.com/5377617/2024/03/30/liverpool-xabi-alonso-manager-what-now/">What happened with Liverpool and Xabi Alonso – and where does the club look now?</a> - The Athletic</p><p><a href="https://theathletic.com/5372259/2024/03/31/liverpool-manager-robert-de-zerbi/">Would Roberto De Zerbi be the right kind of manager for Liverpool?</a> - The Athletic</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Weekend Preview: Will Man City vs Arsenal decide the title?

<p>It’s matchday 30 in the Premier League and the huge meeting of the weekend sees Manchester City host top-of-the-table Arsenal.</p><br><p>Title rivals Liverpool, meanwhile, play Brighton and Manchester United go to Brentford.</p><br><p>Host: Michael Bailey</p><p>Guests: Nnamdi Onyeagwara, Jay Harris, Jon Mackenzie</p><p>Producer: Mike Stavrou</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Who would buy a football club in 2024?

<p>Most of us can only dream of owning a football club .</p><p>But for the very rich it’s an opportunity towards power, influence and… even more money</p><p>So who are the people that try to buy football clubs? </p><p>And how do football’s authorities decide who gets the green light for a takeover? </p><p>Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Adam Crafton &amp; Matt Slater</p><p>Produced by Guy Clarke</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p>Related articles:</p><p><a href="https://theathletic.com/5371588/2024/03/28/the-nobody-who-tried-to-buy-manchester-united-and-inter-milan/">The nobody who tried to buy Manchester United and Inter Milan</a> by Adam Crafton</p><p><a href="https://theathletic.com/5347923/2024/03/26/mmobuosi-nigeria-football-news-sheffield-united/">‘Under every rock, we found a lie’: How the bid to be English football’s first black owner unravelled</a> by Matt Slater</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Should Mainoo start at the Euros?

<p>A few months ago Kobbie Mainoo had not played a minute for his club at senior level let alone his country.</p><br><p>Now at just 18, he is one of Manchester United’s best players - and after a man of the match performance for England last night Gareth Soutgate was full of praise</p><p> </p><p>So how has one so young been able to establish himself at the highest level so quickly? </p><br><p>And in terms of Euro 2024, has it gone beyond Mainoo just being in the squad for England - does he need to start?</p><br><p>Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic’s Manchester United writer Carl Anka, who is also on our Talk of the Devils podcast, data writer and part of The Athletic Football Tactics Podcast, Mark Carey, and Michael Bailey, who was at Wembley for us last night.</p><br><p>Produced by Mike Stavrou</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Is Thiago Motta the next great coach?

<p>Thiago Motta, the mastermind behind Bologna's unlikely push for a Champions League spot, is seen as one of the most impressive up-and-coming managers.</p><p>With plenty of clubs looking for a new head coach this summer — could Motta be ready for a move to one of European football’s elite? </p><p>Also where might Roberto De Zerbi end up &amp; how much will his style influence the roles he could be offered?</p><p>Produced by Jay Beale.</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p> </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>