The Athletic FC Podcast

The Preview: Man United vs Arsenal

<p>Welcome to The Preview from The Athletic FC, where every Friday we’ll look ahead to the weekend’s Premier League action.</p><br><p>This week it’s all about the start of the season and the big one at Old Trafford – well, it was the big one 10 years ago – it’s Manchester United vs Arsenal.</p><br><p>Tim Spiers and Stu James join Matt Davies-Adams to discuss Amorim and Arteta’s attempts at an A star start, before casting a beady eye over the fixtures elsewhere. </p><br><p>Host: Matt Davies-Adams</p><p>With: Stu James, Tim Spiers</p><p>Executive Producer: Abi Paterson</p><p>Producer: Jay Beale</p><br><p><br></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 Leeds, Sunderland or Burnley survive?

<p>In the last two seasons, the three promoted clubs have been relegated from the Premier League.</p><br><p>So will Leeds, Sunderland or Burnley survive this time around?</p><br><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: Jon Mackenzie and Nick Miller</p><p>Executive Producer: Abi Paterson</p><p>Producers: Guy Clarke and Paul Iliffe</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>

Ornstein Transfer Latest: Isak, Eze, Donnarumma

<p>Alexander Isak has told Newcastle he won’t play for them again — can he force a move to Liverpool? We bring you the latest.</p><br><p>Plus, how are Spurs addressing their urgent need for players, and PSG goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma faces an uncertain future.</p><br><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: David Ornstein and Jack Pitt-Brooke</p><p>Executive Producer: Abi Paterson</p><p>Producer: Nick Thomson</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>

Isak shuns Newcastle, but who holds the power?

<p>David Ornstein dropped the news this morning that Alexander Isak is adamant he won’t play for Newcastle again<strong>&nbsp;</strong>and that he has no desire to reintegrate into the squad.</p><br><p>So what happens now? And are there any glimmers of hope for Eddie Howe’s side going into the new season?</p><br><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: Chris Waugh, Jacob Whitehead and Seb Stafford-Bloor</p><p>Executive Producer: Abi Paterson</p><p>Producer: Mike Stavrou and Nick Thomson</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 still the team to beat?

<p>Title holders Liverpool have been the talk of the transfer window, but couldn't claim the Community Shield against Crystal Palace.&nbsp;</p><br><p>So, are they ready to defend their Premier League crown?</p><br><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: Adam Crafton and Simon Hughes</p><p>Executive Producer: Abi Paterson</p><p>Producer: Guy Clarke</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 the world of Premier League referees

<p>Referees are integral to football. But with every decision scrutinised, why would anyone want to be a referee?</p><br><p>The Athletic has been given insider access to the life of Premier League referees. From a gruelling pre-season training camp to matchday, join Adam Leventhal as he finds out what it takes to take command of the football pitch.</p><br><p>We'll explain the new laws you'll see this season and the refs will explain why they should benefit the game.</p><br><p>You'll hear from PGMO chief, Howard Webb, current Premier League refs Andy Madeley and Peter Bankes, the latest VAR recruits, and many more.</p><br><p>Join us as we take you inside the world of referees.</p><br><p>Host: Adam Leventhal</p><p>Exec Prod: Abi Paterson&nbsp;</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 £200m striker spree fix their problems?

<p>Manchester United have spent over £200m and counting.&nbsp;</p><br><p>But after continuous false dawns, will they deliver this season?</p><br><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: Andy Mitten &amp; Mark Critchley</p><p>Executive Producer: Abi Paterson</p><p>Producer: Jay Beale</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>

Ornstein transfer latest: Sesko to Man Utd & what now for Isak?

<p>We’re focusing on strikers today.&nbsp;</p><br><p>In the latest twist to the transfer story of the summer - Benjamin Sesko looks to be on his way to Manchester United&nbsp;</p><br><p>So what does this mean for Newcastle and their wantaway striker Alexander Isak?&nbsp;</p><br><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: David Ornstein and Jacob Whitehead</p><p>Executive Producer: Abi Paterson</p><p>Producer: Mike Stavrou and Jay Beale</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>

Dowman & Ngumoha: Why young players are competing earlier

<p>15-year-old Max Dowman has been the talk of Arsenal’s pre-season and 16-year-old Rio Ngumoha has shone for Liverpool.</p><br><p>But can either break into the first team and when is too soon to get excited?</p><br><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: Stuart James and Jacob Tanswell</p><p>Executive Producer: Abi Paterson</p><p>Producer: Guy Clarke</p><br><p><br></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>

Anatomy of a Transfer - ICYMI

<p>Another chance to hear Anatomy of a Transfer, your one stop guide to how transfers happen. </p><br><p>Join Adam Leventhal as he goes behind the scenes at training grounds, stadiums and offices to explain the anatomy of a transfer and to breakdown the complex process of what a player goes through when they move from club to club.</p><br><p>Host: Adam Leventhal</p><p>Exec Prod: Abi Paterson</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>

Transfers that shook the world: Sol Campbell to Arsenal

<p>Welcome to Transfers that shook the world, a summer series for The Athletic FC looking back on the moves that sparked fury and saw heroes become villains.</p><br><p>Today we’re heading back to July 2001, when Sol Campbell completed perhaps the most controversial move in Premier League history.</p><br><p>More than 20 years on, why are feelings still so strong? And was Campbell vindicated in swapping Spurs for their bitter rivals Arsenal?</p><br><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: Amy Lawrence &amp; Danny Kelly </p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p>Producers: Guy Clarke &amp; Lucy Oliva</p><p>Sound Design: Jay Beale</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>

Do shirt numbers still matter?

<p>Viktor Gyokeres is Arsenal’s new No.14.</p><br><p>Lamine Yamal, Kylian Mbappe and Cole Palmer have all switched to take the No.10 for their clubs.</p><br><p>So, how significant is a squad number?</p><br><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: Jack Lang, Stuart James, Pol Ballus</p><p>Executive Producers: Adey Moorhead &amp; Abi Paterson</p><p>Producers: Jay Beale &amp; Guy Clarke</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 long can Newcastle hold on to Isak?

<p>Alexander Isak has refused to go on tour with Newcastle United and wants to leave.</p><br><p>So who could afford him and do Newcastle have any chance of keeping him?</p><br><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: Chris Waugh and Carl Anka</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p>Producer: Guy Clarke</p><br><p><br></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>

Transfers that shook the world: Luís Figo to Real Madrid

<p>Welcome to Transfers that shook the world, a summer series for The Athletic FC looking back on the moves that sparked fury and saw heroes become villains.</p><br><p>Today we’re heading back to July 2000 - when Luís Figo did the unthinkable and made the move from Barcelona to Real Madrid…</p><br><p>It was a transfer that sent shockwaves through La Liga and went down in footballing folklore - but a quarter of a century later, how is it viewed now? And how pivotal was it in shaping the modern day Real Madrid?</p><br><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: Pol Ballús, José Antonio Espina &amp; Andy Mitten</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p>Producers: Guy Clarke and Lucy Oliva</p><p>Sound Design: Jay Beale</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 manager, new players, new... Spurs?

<p>The Thomas Frank era has officially begun at Spurs and they are busy.</p><br><p>After landing Mohammed Kudus, Morgan Gibbs-White is next on the list.&nbsp;</p><br><p>But will their recruitment strategy get results?</p><br><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: Jay Harris, Seb Stafford-Bloor</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p>Producer: Jay Beale</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 are Barcelona signing Rashford?

<p>Marcus Rashford is set to sign for Barcelona in a loan deal, with an option to make it permanent, leaving his boyhood club Manchester United.</p><br><p>So, is it a deal that suits everyone? </p><br><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: David Ornstein, Carl Anka and Pol Ballus</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p>Producer: Guy Clarke</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 Cruyff inspired Ajax's rebirth

<p>Welcome to Football Architects - a summer series from our friends over at the Athletic FC Tactics podcast,&nbsp;telling the the unsung tales behind modern football success stories.</p><br><p>Episode one is focused on Ajax’s rebirth and how the club was rebuilt in the image of legendary figure Johan Cruyff.</p><br><p>On this episode, we hear from Ruben Jongkind, former head of talent development at Ajax, and the club’s former head of talent recruitment, Jasper van Leeuwen.</p><br><p>Every episode will also have a written piece on the website, which we will link below.</p><br><p><a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6445365/2025/07/03/football-architects-rebuilding-ajax-johan-cruyff/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6445365/2025/07/03/football-architects-rebuilding-ajax-johan-cruyff/</a></p><br><p>The first three episodes of the five-part series are available to listen to right now, check it out wherever you get your podcasts.</p><br><p>Host: Michael Bailey</p><p>With: Jacob Whitehead and Liam Tharme</p><p>Producer: Mike Stavrou</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>

Transfers that shook the world: Ashley Cole to Chelsea

<p>Welcome to Transfers that shook the world, a summer series for The Athletic FC looking back on the moves that sparked fury and saw heroes become villains.</p><br><p>Today we’re heading back to the summer of 2006, and a saga that saw rival lines crossed from the North to West of London as Ashley Cole traded boyhood club Arsenal for rising force Chelsea.</p><br><p>So why was the acrimonious move considered such a betrayal? And how did the deal signify a power shift in capital as the blue side of London rose to prominence?</p><br><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: Simon Johnson &amp; James McNicholas</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p>Producers: Guy Clarke and Lucy Oliva</p><p>Sound Design: Jay Beale</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>

Ornstein transfer latest: Liverpool move for Isak & Ekitike

<p>On Tuesday Liverpool made an approach to sign Alexander Isak.</p><br><p>And now they have also made a&nbsp;move for Eintracht Frankfurt forward Hugo Ekitike, who is also being targeted by Newcastle United.</p><br><p>So could Liverpool get both?</p><br><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: David Ornstein and James Pearce</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p>Producer: Jay Beale</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>

Was the Club World Cup worth it?

<p>Chelsea are the new Club World Cup champions beating Paris Saint-Germain 3-0 in the final at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.</p><br><p>Gianni Infantino says the competition has marked a new era for club football.</p><br><p>But has the Club World Cup really been a success?</p><br><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: Adam Crafton and Phil Hay</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p>Producer: Guy Clarke</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>

Transfers that shook the world: Tevez to Man City

<p>Welcome to Transfers that shook the world, a summer series for The Athletic FC looking back on the moves that sparked fury and saw heroes become villains.</p><br><p>Today we’re heading back to July 2009 when Carlos Tevez swapped the red half of Manchester for blue. </p><br><p>So why was the move quite so controversial - and how symbolic was it in shifting the balance of power in the hunt for Premier League dominance?</p><br><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: Andy Mitten &amp; Oli Kay</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p>Producers: Guy Clarke and Lucy Oliva</p><p>Sound Design: Jay Beale</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>

Thomas Partey charges explained and questions for Arsenal

<p>On Friday July 4th, news broke that former Arsenal midfielder, Thomas Partey had been charged with five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault. The allegations relate to three different women who reported the incidents which took place between 2021 and 2022.</p><br><p>Police began investigations in February 2022 but Partey carried on playing for Arsenal until his contract expired on June 30.</p><p>He denies all the allegations, and will appear in court on August 5.</p><br><p>Arsenal say the player’s contract ended in June and they are unable to comment due to ongoing legal proceedings.</p><br><p>We’ll discuss why it took so long to get here?&nbsp;Was it right that Arsenal let Partey play on? And how do fans feel about the situation?</p><br><p>Read Sarah Shepherd's column <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6474118/2025/07/05/arsenals-thomas-partey-rape-charge-morals/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a></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 Man United shift their unwanted players?

<p>Marcus Rashford is one of five players Manchester United told didn’t need to report for the start of pre-season but showed up anyway.</p><br><p>So where does his future lie - and how difficult will it be for United to move on their unwanted stars?</p><br><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: Mark Critchley and Phil Hay</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p>Producer: Guy Clarke</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>

Ornstein transfer latest: Arsenal move for Gyokeres

<p>Arsenal are in advanced talks to sign Sporting striker Viktor Gyökeres.</p><br><p>So what could the Swede offer Mikel Arteta’s side?</p><br><p>And is he the missing piece in the title puzzle for the Gunners?</p><br><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: David Ornstein, Carl Anka</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p>Producers: Mike Stavrou</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>

At what cost? Saudi Arabia and soccer

<p>There's been two football tournaments in the United States this summer, the Club World Cup and the Gold Cup. Both with an ostensible Saudi feel, all part of grand plan to invest heavily in sport backed by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.</p><br><p>Adam Leventhal has travelled to Miami, Austin, and Las Vegas to witness this soft power at play. Hear from Saudi players and fans who celebrate the exposure afforded by these tournaments, but also, crucially, those who fear its impact. All with an eye on the future when Saudi Arabia will be hosting the 2034 Men's World Cup.</p><br><p><br></p><p>Host: Adam Leventhal</p><p>Producer: Jesse Howard</p><p>Exec Producer: Abi Paterson</p><p>Featuring footage from: DAZN, Fox News, CBS News, France 24 News, FIFA</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>

Remembering Diogo Jota

<p>Tony Evans, James Pearce and Simon Hughes reflect on the tragically sad news Liverpool forward Diogo Jota has died at the age of 28 along with his brother Andre Silva.</p><br><p>The brothers were travelling by car in Spain when their vehicle left the carriageway and burst into flames in the early hours of Thursday morning.</p><br><p>In this episode, we pay tribute to Diogo Jota sharing memories of the person and the player. The Athletic's Tim Spiers, who covered Wolverhampton Wanderers when Jota initially moved to England also shares his memories having interviewed him a number of times during his time at Molineux.</p><br><p>Host: Tony Evans</p><p>With: James Pearce, Simon Hughes and Tim Spiers</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p>Producer: Guy Clarke</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>

Ornstein transfer latest: Will Chelsea keep spending?

<p>Chelsea wanted to get the majority of their transfer business done by the end of June and they have been busy!&nbsp;</p><br><p>Coming up we’ll break down the signings so far and find out who else could arrive at Stamford Bridge before the window closes.</p><br><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: David Ornstein, Simon Johnson</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p>Producers: Mike Stavrou</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 Lyon been relegated?

<p>Crystal Palace are battling to keep their Europa League place, while Lyon have been relegated to French football’s second tier.&nbsp;</p><br><p>John Textor and his Eagle Football Group had stakes in both clubs last season.</p><br><p>So is his multi-club ownership model to blame?&nbsp;</p><br><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: Matt Slater, Tom Williams and Matt Woosnam</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p>Producer: Guy Clarke</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>

Transfers that shook the world: Van Persie to Man United

<p>Welcome to Transfers that shook the world, a summer series for The Athletic FC looking back on the moves that sparked fury and saw heroes become villains.</p><br><p>Today we’re heading back to August 2012, when Arsenal captain Robin van Persie crossed a divide that had defined a Premier League era…</p><br><p>So why was van Persie determined to swap the Emirates for Old Trafford - and did the move ultimately prove to be Sir Alex Ferguson’s final masterstroke at Manchester United?</p><br><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: David Ornstein, Amy Lawrence, Oli Kay &amp; Andy Mitten</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p>Producers: Guy Clarke and Lucy Oliva</p><p>Sound Design: Jay Beale</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 much more will Liverpool spend this summer?

<p>It’s still only June but Liverpool have already been busy in the transfer market, having signed both Florian Wirtz and Jeremie Frimpong and closing in on a deal for Milos Kerez. </p><br><p>Today, we break down Arne Slot’s summer rebuild and ask is there even more to come?</p><br><p>Host: Ayo Akinwolere</p><p>With: David Ornstein and James Pearce</p><p>Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead</p><p>Producer: Guy Clarke</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>