The Athletic FC Podcast

Will the new-look Champions League be more exciting?

<p>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! </p><p>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.</p><p>The panel get into the the new league structure, explain why it gets called "The Swiss Model" and how it will work in practice.</p><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: Matt Slater and Phil Hay</p><p>Executive Producer: Abi Paterson</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>

Are big-spending Brighton onto something special?

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

Ugarte, Sancho and Chelsea's fire sale: Ornstein’s transfers to watch

<p>With just days left until the transfer window closes - what big moves should we look out for?</p><br><p>So what is going to happen with Raheem Sterling and Jadon Sancho? </p><br><p>Are Liverpool getting Federico Chiesa? </p><br><p>And is Manuel Ugarte finally on his way to Manchester United?</p><br><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: David Ornstein and Carl Anka</p><p>Executive Producer: Abi Paterson</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>

Will Kompany restore Bayern's dominance?

<p>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.</p><p>So after Bayer Leverkusen ended Bayern’s run of 11 straight titles last season, can Kompany lead them back to the top?</p><p>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.</p><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: Seb Stafford-Bloor and Andy Jones</p><p>Executive Producer: Abi Paterson</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>

The Preview - Aston Villa vs Arsenal

<p>Welcome to The Preview on The Athletic FC, where each week we’ll be going deep on the biggest game of the weekend.</p><p>This week — we’re focusing on Unai Emery's Aston Villa, who host title chasing Arsenal on Saturday.</p><p>Plus, we look at the fixtures elsewhere with drop ins from the club podcasts across our network.</p><br><p>Host: Adam Leventhal</p><p>With: Tim Spiers, Jon Mackenzie, Jacob Tanswell, Liam Tharme, James McNicholas</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p>Producer: Jay Beale</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 Conte already losing patience at Napoli?

<p>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”.</p><p>So how can Napoli avoid another disappointing season after their title triumph in 2023?</p><p>Is moving on Victor Osimhen and reuniting Conte with Romelu Lukaku the answer?</p><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: James Horncastle and Jack Pitt-Brooke</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>

Why Barcelona are letting Gundogan re-join Man City

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

Why hasn't Ivan Toney got his 'big move'?

<p>It felt like a host of top clubs would be queuing up to sign Brentford striker Ivan Toney this summer.</p><p>He’s been linked with a lucrative move to the Saudi Pro League</p><p>But where is the interest from Premier League clubs for the England international?</p><br><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: Jay Harris and Liam Tharme</p><p>Additional reporting: Laurie Whitwell, James McNicholas, Sam Lee</p><p>Producers: Abi Paterson &amp; 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>

What next for Sterling after Chelsea snub?

<p>Once again we’re asking what is going on at Stamford Bridge.</p><br><p>So after being unhappy at being left out for the season opener.</p><br><p>What now for Raheem Sterling at Chelsea? </p><br><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: Oli Kay and Liam Twomey</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</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>

The Preview - Chelsea vs Manchester City

<p>Welcome to The Preview on The Athletic FC, where each week we’ll be going deep on the biggest game of the weekend.</p><p>This week — Opening week! — we’re focusing on the ever-changing Chelsea, who host Premier League champions Manchester City on Sunday.</p><p>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.</p><br><p>Host: Michael Bailey</p><p>With: Tim Spiers, Jon Mackenzie, Liam Twomey, Sam Lee</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p>Producer: Jay Beale</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 secure is Eddie Howe at Newcastle?

<p>After missing out on European football last season, it’s been a summer of uncertainty at Newcastle United.</p><p>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.</p><p>So will Newcastle do the business they need and is the manager’s position vulnerable?</p><p>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.</p><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: Chris Waugh, Phil Hay and David Ornstein</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>

Are Liverpool being left behind by busy rivals?

<p>Liverpool have been rejected.</p><p>So why has Martín Zubimendi turned down a move to Anfield under new manager Arne Slot?</p><p>And are they at risk of being left behind by their busy rivals in the transfer market? </p><br><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: Phil Hay and Simon Hughes</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</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>

Is Solanke Tottenham's replacement for Kane?

<p>It’s been a year since the departure of Harry Kane from Tottenham.</p><br><p>But with record signing Dominic Solanke are Tottenham finally replacing their all-time record goalscorer?</p><br><p>And what can we expect from Ange Postecoglou’s second season in charge at Spurs?</p><br><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: Jack Pitt-Brooke and Seb Stafford-Bloor </p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</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>

Will Man United's summer of change end the chaos?

<p>New coaches, new CEO, new Sporting Director - you name it - it’s been a summer, of upheaval at Manchester United.</p><p>That's before you even look at the transfer market!</p><p>But will the changes be enough for the drastic, improvement needed after finishing 8th in the Premier League last season?</p><p>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.</p><p>https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/talk-of-the-devils-the-athletic-fcs-manchester-united-show/id1495072403?uo=4</p><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: Laurie Whitwell and Carl Anka</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>

Uncertainty at Man City: Pep, Alvarez, and looming charges

<p>Pep Guardiola has entered the final year of his Manchester City contract.</p><p>With the uncertainty around many players futures, and the 115 charges still looming, could this be the end of an era at Manchester City? </p><p>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.</p><br><p>Host: Adam Leventhal</p><p>With: Phil Hay and Sam Lee</p><p>Executive Producer: Abi Paterson</p><p>Producer: Jay Beale</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>

Chelsea: new manager, same problems

<p>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.</p><p>New boss Enzo Maresca blamed ‘old habits’ for their defensive misgivings after his side’s latest defeat to Real Madrid.</p><p>So, with the Premier League season just over a week away what should we expect from Chelsea? </p><p>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.</p><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: Phil Hay and Liam Twomey</p><p>Executive Producer: Abi Paterson</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>

How can Barcelona afford Dani Olmo?

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

Zlatan interview: Milan love affair, Man United and being 'God'

<p>On today’s podcast we bring you our reporter Adam Crafton’s exclusive interview with Zlatan Ibrahimovic.</p><br><p>With 561 goals for club and country and 12 league titles across four countries - he is truly one of football’s greats.</p><br><p>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’.</p><br><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: Adam Crafton</p><p>Executive Producer: Abi Paterson</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>

Are Arsenal ready to topple Man City?

<p>Despite going close in each of the past two seasons, Arsenal have ultimately finished both empty-handed.</p><p>So is this the season Mikel Arteta finally delivers the Premier League title?</p><p>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.</p><p>Italian football correspondent James Horncastle also shares his thoughts on the Gunners move for Riccardo Calafiori following his move to North London from Bologna.</p><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: Art De Roche and Adrian Clarke</p><p>Executive Producer: Abi Paterson</p><p>Producer: Guy Clarke</p><p>Related articles:</p><p><a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5650166/2024/07/30/arsenal-calafiori-transfer-profile/">Riccardo Calafiori, Arsenal’s new defender who got lifts from De Rossi and models his game on Stones</a> - The Athletic</p><p><a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5646944/2024/08/05/arsenal-five-games-failed-score-2023-2024/">The five games Arsenal failed to score in last season: What lessons can be learned</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 friendlies enough for U.S. fans?

<p>Arsenal, Manchester United and Liverpool are just some of the teams in America during pre-season supposedly giving back to their fans abroad.</p><p>But is it enough? Do Premier League teams need to play competitive matches away from England to truly make this a global game?</p><p>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.</p><p>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.</p><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: Adam Crafton</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>

What now for Southgate & England?

<p>Spain are deservedly champions of Europe.</p><p>So why are England once again unable to take the final step?</p><p>And will it be Gareth Southgate’s final game as manager? </p><br><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: Oli Kay, David Ornstein, Pol Ballus</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p>Producers: Guy Clarke &amp; Jay Beale</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 Lamine Yamal the heir to Messi's throne?

<p>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.</p><p>So how did he get so good so young? </p><p>And will his club side Barcelona be able to keep hold of him in the long term?</p><p>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.</p><p>Host: Adam Leventhal</p><p>With: Pol Ballus and Dermot Corrigan</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p>Producer: Guy Clarke</p><p>Related articles:</p><p><a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5627602/2024/07/09/perfection-by-lamine-yamal/">Perfection, by Lamine Yamal</a> - The Athletic</p><p><a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5614184/2024/07/06/lionel-messi-lamine-yamal-photo-barcelona/">The story behind the viral photos of Lionel Messi and a baby Lamine Yamal</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 England good or just lucky?

<p>England left it late, but thanks for Ollie Watkins' last minute winner are through to the final at Euro 2024.</p><p>So are they now good, or just really lucky having relied on a number of big moments throughout the tournament?</p><p>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. </p><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: Oli Kay, Jack Pitt-Brooke and Tim Spiers</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p>Producer: Guy Clarke</p><p>Related articles:</p><p><a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5630276/2024/07/11/england-euros-final-netherlands/">England, a team of comebacks, late winners and finals. These are extraordinary times</a> - The Athletic</p><p><a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5630246/2024/07/10/ollie-watkins-cole-palmer-england-euro-2024-goal/">Ollie Watkins, Cole Palmer and an England goal that was worth the wait</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>

How will Liverpool benefit if FSG buy Bordeaux?

<p>On Friday, Arne Slot was officially unveiled as head coach in a new era at Liverpool.</p><p>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?</p><br><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: James Pearce, Matt Slater</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p>Producer: Jay Beale</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>

Arteta eyes Calafiori & why Man United want Zirkzee

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

Should England drop Kane?

<p>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.</p><p>No doubt he’ll start Wednesday’s semi-final against the Netherlands but should he? </p><p>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.</p><p>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.</p><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: Oli Kay, Jacob Whitehead and Ahmed Walid</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p>Producer: Guy Clarke</p><p>Related articles</p><p><a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5621106/2024/07/08/harry-kane-england-euro-2024-cristiano-ronaldo/">Is Harry Kane in danger of becoming England’s Cristiano Ronaldo?</a> - The Athletic</p><p><a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5599620/2024/06/29/netherlands-striker-options-euro-2024-depay-weghorst/">Memphis Depay vs Wout Weghorst: The striker debate which cuts to the heart of Dutch football</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>

Why Ten Hag survived Man United overhaul

<p>Just weeks after considering managerial replacements, Manchester United have extended Erik ten Hag’s contract until 2026.</p><p>With so much structural change at the club, is this a genuine show of faith in the manager?</p><p>And with preseason starting Monday, what are the problems that still need to be fixed before the Premier League returns?</p><br><p>Host: Adam Leventhal</p><p>With: Mark Critchley, Dan Sheldon</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p>Producer: Jay Beale</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 the Ronaldo circus holding Portugal back?

<p>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.</p><p>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?</p><p>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.</p><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: Oli Kay and Tim Spiers</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p>Producer: Guy Clarke</p><p>Related articles:</p><p><a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5610554/2024/07/02/cristiano-ronaldo-portugal-euro-2024-penalty/">Cristiano Ronaldo cannot rage against the dying of the light forever </a>- The Athletic</p><p><a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5594564/2024/07/01/cristiano-ronaldo-portugal-fans-euro-2024/">The cult of Cristiano Ronaldo</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>

Why have Spurs spent £40m on Archie Gray?

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

Can Newcastle spend now PSR issues are fixed?

<p>Less than a month into this summer’s transfer window, one crucial deadline has already passed as club’s scrambled to comply with PSR.</p><p>Amongst those were Newcastle United, so how did they find a way to balance the books?</p><p>And what is the situation at St James’ Park for the rest of the summer transfer window?</p><p>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.</p><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: David Ornstein and Chris Waugh</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p>Producer: Guy Clarke</p><p><a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5599305/2024/07/01/newcastle-psr-player-sales/">Inside Newcastle’s frantic attempts to sell players and comply with PSR</a> - The Athletic</p><p><a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5416244/2024/07/01/dan-ashworth-manchester-united/">Manchester United agree deal with Newcastle to appoint Dan Ashworth as new sporting director</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>