Alle afleveringen
1.474 afleveringen, van nieuw naar oud
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What If... We erased the Messi-Ronaldo era?
24 oktober 2026 · 47 min
With the Ballon d'Or fast approaching, this week’s episode of ‘What If’, Emma is joined in the studio by The Athletic’s Tim Spiers, Dan Kilpatrick and Jack Pitt-Brooke to pick apart the unfathomable… What if Messi and Ronaldo didn’t exist? Lees meer
Who scores their goals? Who’s career skyrockets? And topically, who wins their Ballons d’Or?
Plus, we discuss who we think will be just the 5th player outside of the two main men to win the Ballon d’Or since 2008.
Host: Emma Paton
Panelists: Jack Pitt-Brooke, Dan Kilpatrick, Tim Spiers
Executive Producers: Adam Jones, Max Curwen Bingley
Producer: Mike Stavrou
Videographer: Grayson Moody
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Chelsea vs Spurs + how are Brighton this good?
23 oktober 2026 · 43 min
It’s a jam packed show this week as Kate Mason is joined in the studio by tacticos Liam Tharme and Rob Green to discuss all the weekend’s goings on, including a fierce London derby as Chelsea host rivals Spurs. Lees meer
Plus, we’re joined by former Brighton defender Adam Webster to get an inside look at all things football on the south coast. What’s it like to play for Roberto de Zerbi? How do you stop Erling Haaland? And, the question on everyone’s lips - how are Brighton that good?
Host: Kate Mason
Panelists: Rob Green, Liam Tharme, Adam Webster
Executive producers: Adam Jones, Max Curwen Bingley
Producer: Mike Stavrou
Videographer: Liam Warburton
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Man United, INEOS and a failing sports empire
22 oktober 2026 · 43 min
Manchester United’s ownership is in the firing line again, with players accusing leadership of negligence and just two wins so far all season. Lees meer
So with United in their latest doom cycle and growing unrest across their other clubs and investments, is Jim Ratcliffe’s INEOS sports empire crumbling?
Kate Mason is joined by Matt Slater, Adam Crafton and former England international Rob Green to examine the impact of United's constant failings on the INEOS landscape.
Host: Kate Mason
Co-hosts: Matt Slater, Adam Crafton, Rob Green
Videographer: Lara Sinclair
Producer: Jay Beale
Executive Producer: Adam Jones
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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PSG’s three-peat war path + Ten Hag fallout
21 oktober 2026 · 40 min
Tuesday saw PSG and Barcelona lock horns at the Parc des Princes as Luis Enrique’s side came out victors despite injuries to key players Ousmane Dembele and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia. Lees meer
Emma is joined in the studio by Manchester United writer Cerys Jones and Senior Editor Tomas Hill Lopez-Menchero to break down all the action.
Plus, Laurie Whitwell dials in to tell all about his two days spent with former United boss, Erik ten Hag, and we discuss the future of El Clasico, and if it remains the biggest fixture in football.
Host: Emma Payton
Panelists: Cerys Jones, Tomas Hill Lopez Menchero
Featuring: Laurie Whitwell, James Horncastle
Executive producers: Adam Jones, Max Curwen Bingley
Producer: Jay Beale
Videographer: Liam Warburton
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Who is the best team in Europe right now?
20 oktober 2026 · 53 min
It's a bumper week in the Champions League with arguably the best four teams in Europe — PSG, Barcelona, Bayern Munich and Arsenal — all facing each other. But who is actually the best side in Europe right now? Lees meer
We dissect the star power, team identity, weaknesses and managers across all four teams and pick some Combined XIs.
Plus, was Spurs' first victory of the season a launchpad for their season? Or was it just Coventry at home?
Jon Mackenzie, JJ Bull and Seb Stafford-Bloor joined Emma Paton today for a bit of a Tifo takeover.
Host: Emma Paton
Panelists: Jon Mackenzie, JJ Bull and Seb Stafford-Bloor
Producers: Mike Stavrour, Grayson Moody
Executive producer: Adam Jones
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Is it time to take Brighton seriously?
19 oktober 2026 · 40 min
Brighton thumped nearest rivals Crystal Palace on Sunday, taking their tally to an astonishing 34 goals in all competitions already this season. Lees meer
So what is taking them to the next level? And is their form sustainable enough to mount an actual title challenge?
Plus, was Michael Carrick right to describe Man United's draw at Leeds as a 'fresh start'? And who is worrying Rob this week?
Emma Paton is joined by Rob Green, The Athletic's Spurs and England correspondent Jack Pitt-Brooke and Tactics writer Liam Tharme.
Host: Emma Paton
Panelists: Rob Green, Jack Pitt-Brooke, Liam Tharme
Videographer: Lara Sinclair
Producer: Jay Beale
Exec producer: Adam Jones
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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What If… Spurs weren't ‘Spursy’?
18 oktober 2026 · 52 min
On today’s episode of ‘What If’, Emma is joined by long-suffering Spurs fans Dan Kilpatrick and Kate Mason, alongside Tim Spiers to deduce, what if... Spurs weren’t ‘Spursy’? Lees meer
Lasagne-gate, Conte’s outburst, beefing with the Dulux dog, the choices are endless, but what do we vote the ‘Spurs-iest’ moment in the club’s history?
Host: Emma Paton
Panelists: Kate Mason, Dan Kilpatrick, Tim Spiers
Executive Producers: Adam Jones, Max Curwen Bingley
Producer: Mike Stavrou
Videographer: Grayson Moody
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Jack Wilshere meets David Ornstein
17 oktober 2026 · 18 min
What's the biggest fight Jack Wilshere has seen in football? And Does he regret not being able to fulfil his full potential? Welcome to Truth or Padel Extra, the show where David Ornstein takes on footballers to ask questions he wouldn't be able to in a normal interview. Lees meer
This week David is joined by former Arsenal player and current Luton Town manager, Jack Wilshere, to discuss the importance of family, his coaching career and looking back on regrets.
Watch the Truth Or Padel game on The Athletic FC: https://youtu.be/68SC7UCqLKA
Host: David Ornstein
Guest: Jack Wilshere
Executive Producer: Joe Devine
Editors: Don Ma, Tom Pryce
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Spurs vs Coventry preview + how to beat a 10-man team
16 oktober 2026 · 34 min
We’ve got a big weekend of Premier League action ahead of us, so we’re back in the studio for another episode of The Tactical Preview. Lees meer
This week we’re honing in on Spurs vs Coventry, and if Roberto De Zerbi’s team are starting to find their rhythm.
Kate Mason is joined by Rob Green and tactics writer Liam Tharme to preview this weekend’s biggest games, including ‘The Roses Rivalry’, as pressure mounts on United boss Michael Carrick.
Plus, we breakdown the details on playing versus 10, and how some teams are better set up to do that than others.
Host: Kate Mason
Panelists: Rob Green, Liam Tharme
Executive producers: Adam Jones, Max Curwen Bingley
Producer: Mike Stavrou
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Why are Man City and PSG's financial scandals different?
15 oktober 2026 · 39 min
Manchester City and PSG put on a show in the Champions League last night, but their situations off the pitch are very different. Lees meer
City are now public enemy number one after being ruled to have systematically broken Premier League rules. So why are PSG, who have their own historic financial breaches, not legally viewed the same way?
Kate Mason is joined by Adam Crafton, Jacob Whitehead and former England international Rob Green to explain. Plus, Matt Slater joins down the line from Zurich where Gianni Infantino is making his first public FIFA appearance since the World Cup.
Host: Kate Mason
Panelists: Adam Crafton, Jacob Whitehead, Rob Green, Matt Slater
Videographer: Lara Sinclair
Executive producer: Adam Jones
Producer: Jay Beale
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Are Man United already in crisis again?
14 oktober 2026 · 40 min
Manchester United continued their poor run of form with a 2-0 loss to Diego Simeone’s Atletico Madrid on Tuesday night, but it was Lisandro Martinez’s explosive post match interview that grabbed the headlines. Lees meer
Emma is joined in the studio by The Athletic’s Manchester United writer Cerys Jones and Senior Editor Tomas Hill Lopez-Menchero to dig into all the action, plus, Senior sports news reporter Matt Slater explains the IFR’s State of Football report.
Host: Emma Paton
Panelists: Cerys Jones, Tomas Hill Lopez-Menchero, Matt Slater
Featuring: Laurie Whitwell
Executive Producers: Adam Jones, Max Curwen Bingley
Producer: Jay Beale
Videographer: Liam Warburton
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Palmer's new Chelsea deal + are Everton for sale again?
13 oktober 2026 · 53 min
Cole Palmer signed a contract extension with Chelsea over the weekend to signify his commitment to the club. So are the Blues entering a long overdue era of stability under Xabi Alonso, and has new signing Morgan Rogers become the glue at the club already? Lees meer
Plus, are Everton’s American owners looking to sell the club already?
Emma Paton is joined by David Ornstein and special guest James Allcott in studio to discuss two big stories that emerged over the weekend.
Host: Emma Paton
Panelists: David Ornstein, James Allcott
Producers: Mike Stavrou, Grayson Moody
Executive Producer: Adam Jones
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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The Premier League has a serious Man City problem
12 oktober 2026 · 41 min
Manchester City's 3-0 win at Liverpool on Sunday felt surreal, with the football itself almost a footnote to the wider picture surrounding City since they were found guilty of almost all the Premier League charges relating to financial breaches. Lees meer
Are all of City's games going to feel this way until the sanctions are delivered? How are their players and fans meant to react? And what did the display say about Liverpool?
Host Emma Paton was joined by former England international Rob Green and The Athletic's Manchester United correspondent Cerys Jones to discuss the fallout from Anfield. Plus, does Michael Carrick have more problems than Roberto de Zerbi? And are we worried about Fulham?
Host: Emma Paton
Panelists: Rob Green, Cerys Jones
Featuring: Sam Lee & James Pearce
Executive producer: Adam Jones
Producer: Jay Beale
Videographer: Lara Sinclair
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Thiago Alcantara meets David Ornstein
10 oktober 2026 · 18 min
In the latest episode of David Ornstein's 'Truth or Padel' series, David meets former Barcelona, Bayern Munich and Liverpool midfielder Thiago Alcantara. Lees meer
Thiago discusses coming to terms with his body being unable to play anymore, advice for the next generation of players, the ‘death’ of beautiful football, and the best young players in the world.
Host: David Ornstein
Guests: Thiago Alcantara
Executive Producer: Joe Devine
Editor: Don Ma
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Liverpool vs Man City preview + a guide to 'rest defence'
9 oktober 2026 · 43 min
This week's Tactical Preview focuses on one of the biggest games in Premier League history: Liverpool vs Manchester City at Anfield on Sunday. Lees meer
The matchup has been given more significance after the news of City's guilty ruling, so how will the players fare on the day and will it alter their tactical approach?
Kate Mason is joined by former England goalkeeper Rob Green and The Athletic's tactics writer Liam Tharme to discuss the game at Anfield, plus Manchester United vs Spurs, Arsenal vs Leeds and Brentford's trip to Villa Park.
The panel also discuss the concepts of rest defence and counter-pressing; who does it best and why it is so important.
Host: Kate Mason
Guests: Rob Green, Liam Tharme
Executive Producer: Adam Jones
Producers: Mike Stavrou & Liam Warburton (
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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What are Klopp and FSG's Liverpool legacies now?
8 oktober 2026 · 47 min
Liverpool went toe to toe with Manchester City during a period when City have now been found guilty of breaching the Premier League's financial rules. So does this change how we should view Jurgen Klopp's achievements as Liverpool manager and FSG's running of the club? Lees meer
Adam Crafton, Matt Slater and Rob Green join Kate Mason on the usual Thursday Club to discuss that era, the best run clubs in the game and what truly makes a good owner.
Host: Kate Mason
Guests: Rob Green, Matt Slater, Adam Crafton
Executive Producer: Adam Jones
Producer: Jay Beale
Videographer: Ben Whitcombe
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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What If... Man City hadn't 'systematically broken' the rules?
8 oktober 2026 · 45 min
This week's What If is centred on the biggest story in town: Manchester City's guilty ruling. Lees meer
Emma Paton is alongside The Athletic's Tim Spiers, Jack Pitt-Brooke and Dan Kilpatrick to discuss who was the most impacted by City's spending, and if that money hadn't been spent, where would the rest of the division be?
What if the big signings they made went elsewhere, who else would they have signed in their place and what is an appropriate punishment?
Host: Emma Paton
Co-hosts: Tim Spiers, Dan Kilpatrick, Jack Pitt-Brooke
Exec Producer: Adam Jones
Producers: Mike Stavrou, Grayson Moody
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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How are Man City fans supposed to feel?
7 oktober 2026 · 43 min
Manchester City supporters are facing a new reality - their club has been vilified since The Athletic revealed they had been found guilty of almost all the Premier League charges relating to financial breaches nearly two weeks ago. Lees meer
So how do their fans feel about it? And how has their relationship with the club changed, if at all?
Two of The Athletic's resident City supporters - Jack Pitt-Brooke and Thom Harris - join Emma Paton to debate and discuss their conflicting feelings.
Plus, The Athletic's Jacob Whitehead drops by to talk about one of the other big side plots to this story - Rui Pinto - the Portuguese whistleblower who gained access to Manchester City's servers, leaking emails and documents that prompted the Premier League's investigation.
Host: Emma Paton
Co-hosts: Jack Pitt-Brooke, Thom Harris
Featuring: Jacob Whitehead
Exec Producer: Adam Jones
Producer: Jay Beale
Videographer: Liam Warburton
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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The best up and coming managers, with Ornstein & Horncastle
6 oktober 2026 · 56 min
Who are the best up and coming managers and head coaches across Europe right now? Lees meer
In this episode, Emma Paton, David Ornstein and James Horncastle detail who they think are the ones to watch - from Cesc Fabregas to Regis Le Bris - and discuss the shifting managerial landscape with so many 'big personalities' moving towards the international game.
David also discusses Mikel Arteta's new contract and Arsenal and how Manchester City's players will respond to the pressure at Liverpool on Sunday.
Host: Emma Paton
Co-hosts: David Ornstein, James Horncastle
Exec Producer: Adam Jones
Producer: Mike Stavrou
Videographer: Grayson Moody
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Why do Man City think they can win their appeal?
5 oktober 2026 · 43 min
Manchester City have lodged their appeal against the Premier League's independent commission after being found guilty of almost all the charges made against them. Lees meer
On today's show, we explain how City's appeal process will work and why they still believe they can overturn the initial verdict.
Plus, the panel review England's 7-0 thrashing of Croatia, discuss Cavan Sullivan's debut for the USMNT and get excited for the return of the Premier League this weekend.
Emma Paton is joined by Rob Green and Cerys Jones in the studio and The Athletic's Football Finance expert Chris Weatherspoon.
Host: Emma Paton
Co-hosts: Rob Green, Cerys Jones
Featuring: Chris Weatherspoon, Felipe Cardenas
Exec Producers: Adam Jones
Producers: Jay Beale
Videographer: Liam Warburton
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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What If… VAR was scrapped?
4 oktober 2026 · 46 min
What If is back with a big topic: VAR. Should the contentious technology continue or should the Premier League vote to scrap it? Lees meer
Emma Paton is joined by Tim Spiers, Dan Kilpatrick and former Premier League referee and VAR Graham Scott to discuss the pros and cons of getting rid of VAR.
The panel also discuss the possibility of introducing a VAR challenge system, and other potential improvements to the system.
Host: Emma Paton
Guests: Tim Spiers, Dan Kilpatrick, Graham Scott
Executive Producer: Adam Jones
Producers: Mike Stavrou, Grayson Moody
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Danny Drinkwater on joining Chelsea, his Man Utd contract & regrets
3 oktober 2026 · 28 min
What is Danny Drinkwater's biggest regret? Lees meer
Welcome to Truth or Padel Extra, the show where David Ornstein takes on footballers to ask questions he wouldn't be able to in a normal interview.
This week David is joined by Premier League winner and former Leicester, Chelsea and Manchester United midfielder Danny Drinkwater to discuss his rollercoaster career.
Host: David Ornstein
Guests: Danny Drinkwater
Executive Producer: Joe Devine
Editor: Don Ma
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Premier League trends, surprises + disappointments so far
2 oktober 2026 · 37 min
The Tactical Preview becomes the Tactical Review during the international break, as we look back at the first five weeks of Premier League action. Lees meer
Kate Mason is joined by Rob Green and Duncan Alexander to discuss the trends from the opening stages of the campaign; from expected points, to shot conversion.
The panel also break down who has surprised and disappointed them, chatting Leeds and Everton's solid defences to Spurs' slow start.
Host: Kate Mason
Guests: Rob Green, Duncan Alexander
Executive Producer: Adam Jones
Producers: Mike Stavrou, Liam Warburton, Xavi Bird
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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How much bigger could the Man City scandal get?
1 oktober 2026 · 59 min
Manchester City and the Premier League have gone to war since The Athletic first revealed they had been found guilty of virtually all the charges facing them last week. Lees meer
We’ve discussed the responses from both sides, possible sanctions and how those within the game have reacted.
Today we’re asking… whose reputations have been damaged most? And how much bigger could this story actually get?
Host: Kate Mason
Co-hosts: Rob Green, Matt Slater, Adam Crafton
Exec Producer: Adam Jones
Producer: Mike Stavrou
Videographer: Liam Warburton
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Explaining Man City's £900m 'sham' finances
30 september 2026 · 44 min
Manchester City have been found guilty of artificially inflating their revenues and reducing costs via "sham payments" in the verdict reached by an independent regulatory commission investigating the charges brought against them by the Premier League. Lees meer
Kate Mason is joined by The Athletic's senior news reporter Matt Slater, at the European Football Clubs general assembly in Copenhagen as well as former England goalkeeper Rob Green to react to the statements released by both the Premier League and Man City.
The Athletic's football finance writer Chris Weatherspoon also breaks down the nature of the "sham" payments as outlined by the commission as well as the extent of the owner funding within Man City's ownership group.
Our Man City correspondent Sam Lee also joins to discuss City's stance, as the club continue to insist on their innocence and well as saying they will "pursue the appeal avenues open" to them.
Host: Kate Mason
With: Matt Slater, Rob Green, Chris Weatherspoon and Sam Lee
Executive Producer: Guy Clarke
Producer: Xavi Bird
Videographer: Liam Warburton
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Inside the Man City scandal, with Ornstein and Horncastle
29 september 2026 · 49 min
Last week, David Ornstein dropped the exclusive story that Manchester City had been found guilty of almost all their charges relating to the Premier League's financial regulations. Today, he’s here with us in the studio. Lees meer
So how did the news that shook the world of football come about? How does it compare to the Calciopoli scandal in Italy? And what’s the reaction been from their rivals across England and Europe?
Host: Kate Mason
Guests: David Ornstein, James Horncastle
Executive Producer: Adam Jones
Producer: Mike Stavrou
Videographer: Grayson Moody
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Man City charges: The fallout + what happens next?
27 september 2026 · 54 min
After David Ornstein exclusively revealed Manchester City were found guilty of almost all of the 115 charges relating to breaches of Premier League financial regulations on Friday, we’re here to explain what those charges actually are, what the immediate fallout has been from the verdict, and what happens next. Lees meer
Emma Paton is joined by The Athletic’s senior football reporter Adam Crafton in New York, managing editor of news Luke Bosher and Manchester United correspondent Cerys Jones.
Executive Producer: Adam Jones
Videographer: Grayson Moody
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Gary Neville on the future of punditry & becoming Prime Minister | Truth or Padel Full Interview
26 september 2026 · 27 min
Who does Gary Neville think will become the next great pundit? And does he see himself going into politics some day? Lees meer
Welcome to Truth or Padel Extra, the show where David Ornstein takes on footballers to ask questions he wouldn't be able to in a normal interview.
This week David is joined by Manchester United legend and star pundit Gary Neville to discuss his biggest mistakes on and off the pitch, his latest moment of reflection in life and why he doesn't want to own Manchester United.
Host: David Ornstein
Guests: Gary Neville
Executive Producer: Joe Devine
Editor: Don Ma
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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EMERGENCY POD: Man City found guilty of almost all charges, with David Ornstein
25 september 2026 · 23 min
Manchester City have been found guilty on almost all of the charges relating to breaches of the Premier League’s financial regulations. Lees meer
In this emergency podcast, senior news reporter Matt Slater is joined by football correspondent David Ornstein and Manchester City correspondent Sam Lee to discuss the breaking news and what it means.
Host: Matt Slater
Guests: David Ornstein, Sam Lee
Executive Producers: Adam Jones, Adey Moorhead
Producers: Grayson Moody, Mike Stavrou, Liam Warburton
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Is the Chelsea 'project' stuck?
24 september 2026 · 42 min
Clearlake Capital have taken “full control” of Chelsea, purchasing Todd Boehly’s minority stake. Lees meer
Kate Mason is joined by Matt Slater, Liam Twomey and Rob Green to get into why Boehly’s four year affiliation with the club has come to an end, and what it means for the Chelsea ‘project’.
Plus, Matt explains Clearlake's £5bn valuation of the club - more than double the purchase price back in 2022, and we get into the latest on Chelsea's stalling stadium plans.
Host: Kate Mason
With: Liam Twomey, Matt Slater and Rob Green
Executive Producer: Adam Jones
Producer: Jay Beale
Videographer: Lara Sinclair
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Kylian Mbappe interview: Liverpool talks, Mourinho at Madrid and idolising Ronaldo
23 september 2026 · 42 min
Kylian Mbappe sits down exclusively with Daniel Taylor from The Athletic for a wide ranging interview at Real Madrid’s training ground. Lees meer
In a wide ranging conversation, he revealed how close he came to joining Liverpool before PSG, working with Jose Mourinho at Real Madrid, his favourite World Cup memories and what he does in his spare time to unwind.
Hosts: Emma Paton & Danny Taylor
Guest: Kylian Mbappe
Executive Producer: Alex Hoffman
Videographer: Rachael Tinde
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Ornstein latest: Brentford’s recruitment recipe
22 september 2026 · 49 min
Brentford continued their excellent start to the season with a 3-0 win over Chelsea on Friday night. Lees meer
Emma Paton is joined by The Athletic's David Ornstein, James Horncastle and Liam Tharme to dive into how the west London side operate so efficiently on and off the pitch.
David also answers listener questions on Spurs' latest investment and what is going on at executive level at Manchester United.
Plus, don't miss our teaser for David's brand new series: Truth or Padel.
Host: Emma Paton
With: David Ornstein, James Horncastle and Liam Tharme
Executive Producer: Adam Jones
Producer: Mike Stavrou
Videographer: Grayson Moody
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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How Brighton humbled Arsenal + Spurs hit rock bottom
21 september 2026 · 46 min
Arsenal were dealt a humbling on Saturday as Brighton ran riot on the south coast. Lees meer
Emma Paton is joined by Cerys Jones and Rob Green to get into how Fabian Hurzeler did a job on the Premier League champions, and where this result leaves Mikel Arteta's side.
Plus, after their worst ever start to a Premier League season, we get into Spurs' defeat to Aston Villa that leaves them bottom of the league, and Stu James drops by to discuss his weekly feature for The Athletic, ranking the performance of all 20 Premier League teams to decide who won the weekend.
Host: Emma Paton
With: Cerys Jones & Rob Green
Featuring: Stu James
Executive Producer: Adam Jones
Producer: Jay Beale
Videographer: Lara Sinclair
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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What If... the Super League had happened?
20 september 2026 · 50 min
On this week's episode of What If, we're diving into the 2021 European Super League project, which collapsed within a matter of days. Lees meer
Host Emma Paton is joined by Matt Slater and Dan Kilpatrick to see what would've happened if the idea actually went ahead.
Could it have worked, what would it have meant for domestic leagues, the Champions League and the fabric of football?
Host: Emma Paton
Guests: Matt Slater, Dan Kilpatrick
Executive Producer: Guy Clarke
Producers: Mike Stavrou, Grayson Moody
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Spurs vs Aston Villa + the importance of pressing
18 september 2026 · 47 min
It’s Tactical Preview time, and this week our primary focus is Tottenham Hotspur vs Aston Villa in north London. Lees meer
Kate Mason is joined by Rob Green and Liam Tharme to break down how Roberto De Zerbi’s side can try and score their first Premier League goal of the season.
Also on the agenda is Bournemouth vs Liverpool, Brentford vs Chelsea and what’s been behind Hull City’s incredible start to the season.
The panel also break down the importance of pressing in the modern era and how it’s changed over time.
Host: Kate Mason
Guests: Rob Green, Liam Tharme
Executive Producer: Guy Clarke
Producers: Mike Stavrou, Lara Sinclair
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Why does JJ Gabriel want to leave Man United?
17 september 2026 · 38 min
Manchester United's 15-year-old academy prospect JJ Gabriel has outlined his desire to leave. Lees meer
To discuss why and how this situation has developed Kate Mason is joined by The Athletic's Adam Crafton and Matt Slater as well as former England goalkeeper Rob Green.
Andy Mitten, co-host, of Talk of the Devils also joins having watched Gabriel extensively at youth team level within the Manchester United academy system.
As well as the situation around Gabriel's registration and Manchester United specifically the panel also delve into the impact Brexit has had on youth recruitment and retention as well as the impact youngsters like Max Dowman and Lamine Yamal have had in breaking through to first team environments at a tender age.
Host: Kate Mason
With: Adam Crafton, Matt Slater and Rob Green
Featuring: Andy Mitten
Executive Producer: Guy Clarke
Producer: Jay Beale
Videographer: Lara Sinclair
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Are Liverpool adapting to Iraola?
16 september 2026 · 39 min
Liverpool saw off Spurs on Tuesday night to make it two wins from two in the cup competitions, but Andoni Iraola’s side have just one Premier League victory so far. Lees meer
Emma Paton is joined by The Athletic’s James Pearce and Cerys Jones, plus author of 'Data Game: The Story of Liverpool FC's Analytics Revolution', Josh Williams to get into whether Iraola’s team are adapting to his principles.
Plus, as Andy Robertson made his Anfield return after nine years on Merseyside, the panel discuss whether the current Liverpool squad have enough leaders and consider the implications Cody Gakpo’s departure could have had on Liverpool’s output in front of goal.
Host: Emma Paton
Co-hosts: Cerys Jones, James Pearce, Josh Williams
Exec Producer: Guy Clarke
Producers: Jay Beale
Videographer: Grayson Moody
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Ornstein latest: Why are Spurs still struggling to score?
15 september 2026 · 45 min
Spurs have scored zero goals in their first four Premier League games this season. So why are Roberto De Zerbi's side struggling to find the back of the net despite their £300m summer outlay? Lees meer
Emma Paton is joined by David Ornstein and James Horncastle to discuss why they're misfiring in front of goal. Tottenham correspondent Jack Pitt-Brooke also drops by to discuss the issue.
David also answers questions from subscribers on Man United's coaching set-up, Coventry City's poor start to the season compared to Hull City and Ipswich Town and interest from Arsenal in Liverpool winger Rio Ngumoha.
Host: Emma Paton
With: David Ornstein and James Horncastle
Featuring: Jack Pitt-Brooke
Executive Producer: Guy Clarke
Producer: Mike Stavrou
Videographer: Grayson Moody
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Has Manchester derby defeat put Carrick under pressure?
14 september 2026 · 40 min
Erling Haaland settled the 199th Manchester derby with the only goal as Man City came away from Old Trafford with a 1-0 win. Lees meer
Emma Paton is joined by The Athletic's Cerys Jones and former England goalkeeper Rob Green to pick through a controversial meeting.
Manchester United correspondent Laurie Whitwell reflects on Michael Carrick's anger at the decision to allow Haaland's goal with former Premier League referee Graham Scott joining us to explain the VAR process.
Man City correspondent Sam Lee explains the significance of the derby win for Enzo Maresca and we also wrap-up some of the other key talking points from the weekend with Seb Stafford-Bloor.
Host: Emma Paton
With: Cerys Jones and Rob Green
Featuring: Laurie Whitwell, Graham Scott, Sam Lee and Seb Stafford-Bloor
Executive Producer: Guy Clarke
Producer: Jay Beale
Videographer: Liam Warburton
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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What If... Wayne Rooney joined Manchester City in 2010?
13 september 2026 · 50 min
Ahead of the Manchester derby, this week on What If... we're talking about Wayne Rooney and the hypothetical around whether he could have possibly made the switch across Manchester from United to City back in 2010. Lees meer
Emma Paton is joined by The Athletic's Jack Pitt-Brooke and Dan Kilpatrick, as well as Andy Mitten from Talk of the Devils to delve into Rooney's at times strained relationship with Sir Alex Ferguson
Our alternative timeline ponders whether the move to City could have taken place, as well as whether Rooney could have moved to Jose Mourinho's Chelsea in 2013 as well as the impact any move could possibly have had on his own - or Sir Alex Ferguson's - Manchester United legacy.
Host: Emma Paton
With: Jack Pitt-Brooke, Dan Kilpatrick and Andy Mitten
Executive Producer: Guy Clarke
Producers: Mike Stavrou, Grayson Moody
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Man United v Man City + underlying data buys
11 september 2026 · 39 min
This week on the Tactical Preview we're looking ahead to the first Manchester derby of the season, as Manchester United welcome Man City to Old Trafford. Lees meer
Kate Mason is joined by Rob Green and The Athletic's Thom Harris to analyse City's midfield having been reconstructed during the summer transfer window with the arrival of Elliot Anderson, Ayyoub Bouaddi and Enzo Fernandez.
The Athletic's Man City correspondent Sam Lee also drops by to explain how the new unit is coming together, while the panel assess whether playing on the counter may suit Michael Carrick's side
There's also a look ahead to Fulham's trip to Anfield, having seen plenty of midfield chaos from Alvaro Arbeloa's side, while Aston Villa will be hoping to score their first Premier League goal of the season against Nottingham Forest and Hull head to Chelsea, yet to so far concede.
Meanwhile in the breakdown, the panel look at the under the radar data signings made this summer that may be worth keeping an eye on!
Host: Kate Mason
With: Rob Green and Thom Harris
Featuring: Sam Lee
Executive Producer: Guy Clarke
Producer: Xavi Bird
Videographer: Liam Warburton
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Champions League boom + Garry Cook on Manchesterism
10 september 2026 · 45 min
As the Champions League returns, a number of big match-ups have played out including Real Madrid taking on Inter Milan and Liverpool facing Atletico Madrid, but where is the jeopardy? Lees meer
Kate Mason is joined by Adam Crafton, Matt Slater and Rob Green to analyse the growth and investment within the Champions League and discuss whether the change to the league phase format has led to a closed-shop for the clubs capable of winning the tournament.
Plus, ahead of Sunday's Manchester derby, former Man City CEO Garry Cook joins the podcast to discuss the role the two clubs have played in raising the global profile of the city.
From a sporting, economical and political sense he reflects on his involvement with the Abu Dhabi investment into Man City back in 2008 and the ambitions of the project as well as the opportunity to be part of the growth of the city.
Host: Kate Mason
With: Adam Crafton, Matt Slater and Rob Green
Featuring: Garry Cook
Executive Producer: Guy Clarke
Producer: Jay Beale
Videographer: Lara Sinclair
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Is Mourinho's Real Madrid return working?
9 september 2026 · 36 min
Real Madrid’s 2-1 victory over Inter in their opening Champions League fixture was far from convincing. Lees meer
Emma Paton is joined by The Athletic's Liam Twomey and Tomas Hill Lopez-Menchero to get into Jose Mourinho’s return to the Spanish capital, the panel discuss whether he’s the man to bring silverware back to the Bernabeu amid familiar problems to last season.
Plus, with the shortlist for the Ballon d'Or revealed, could Harry Kane become just the fourth Englishman to win the award?
Host: Emma Paton
Co-hosts: Liam Twomey, Tomas Hill Lopez-Menchero
Featuring: Guillermo Rai
Exec Producer: Guy Clarke
Producers: Jay Beale
Videographer: Liam Warburton
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Inside Everton's transfer window frustrations with Ornstein and Horncastle
8 september 2026 · 44 min
After seeing a late move for Folarin Balogun collapsed Everton have been left with 18 senior first team players, something manager David Moyes seems less than pleased by. Lees meer
Emma Paton is with David Ornstein and James Horncastle to analyse Everton's transfer dealings, discuss why things played out in the manner they did - including looking likely to strike a deal to sell Harrison Armstrong to Nottingham Forest.
The Friedkin Group are also exploring investment opportunities in the club, so the panel assess the relationship the owners have with the club having only taken control in December 2024.
Plus there's the latest Ask Ornstein and The Athletic's Barcelona correspondent Pol Ballus also joins us to talk about Marcus Rashford's reintegration at Manchester United, following his loan spell at the Camp Nou last season.
Host: Emma Paton
With: David Ornstein and James Horncastle
Featuring: Pol Ballus
Executive Producer: Guy Clarke
Producer: Jay Beale
Videographer: Grayson Moody
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Who can challenge Arsenal for the title?
7 september 2026 · 37 min
Arsenal made it three wins from three at the start of the new Premier League season, coming from behind to beat Chelsea 2-1 at the Emirates. Lees meer
Emma Paton is joined by former England goalkeeper Rob Green and The Athletic's Matt Slater to look back on the weekend's action.
Art de Roche shares his thoughts on Arsenal's attacking rotations on show against Chelsea, with Liam Twomey assessing how far off becoming title challengers Xabi Alonso's side are.
Moving away from the Emirates, the panel assess who else could challenge for the title this season, with Man City being the only other side to take maximum points so far.
Plus, Rob analyses the most noteworthy goalkeeping performances of the weekend and with the transfer window now closed, there's a look at which players could still be available on free transfers!
Host: Emma Paton
With: Rob Green and Matt Slater
Featuring: Art de Roche and Liam Twomey
Executive Producer: Guy Clarke
Producer: Jay Beale
Videographer: Liam Warburton
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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What If... Abramovich bought Spurs instead of Chelsea?
6 september 2026 · 1 uur
For episode two of What If... we're talking Chelsea's former owner Roman Abramovich - and the parallel universe where he buys Spurs, or even Arsenal, instead of the Blues. Lees meer
Emma Paton is joined by The Athletic's Tim Spiers and Spurs writer Jack Pitt-Brooke and Chelsea writer Liam Twomey to delve into the influence of Abramovich and how he changed the game forever.
Our alternative timeline ponders what would happen to Chelsea, Arsenal, Manchester United, Mourinho and the Premier League's ownership and investment landscape had Abramovich not taken over.
Host: Emma Paton
Guests: Tim Spiers, Jack Pitt-Brooke, Liam Twomey
Executive Producer: Adam Jones
Producers: Mike Stavrou, Grayson Moody
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Arsenal vs Chelsea + how to rebuild a squad
4 september 2026 · 42 min
Welcome back to the Tactical Preview, this week, our focus is on Arsenal vs Chelsea at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday. Lees meer
Kate Mason is joined by former England goalkeeper Rob Green and The Athletic’s Tactics writer Liam Tharme to analyse Xabi Alonso’s low-possession style from their first two games and how their potent attack could go about breaking down a stubborn Arsenal side.
The panel also discuss squad building, with multiple clubs going through big changes in personnel over the summer window.
They also look at Everton vs Manchester United, Nottingham Forest vs Spurs and Newcastle vs Bournemouth - and focus on how the three B’s: Bournemouth, Brentford and Brighton, constantly reinvent themselves.
Host: Kate Mason
Guests: Rob Green, Liam Tharme
Executive Producer: Adam Jones
Producers: Mike Stavrou, Liam Warburton
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Was this the summer the Premier League ate itself?
3 september 2026 · 41 min
This summer the Premier League smashed the record for spending within the division, with £1.7bn worth of transfers between Premier League clubs alone. Lees meer
Kate Mason is joined by Adam Crafton, Matt Slater and Rob Green to get into what this means for football here in the UK and why player prices are so high.
Plus, Tim Bridge, lead partner of Deloitte's Sports Business Group, drops in to talk about the impact on the wider game and growing wealth gaps across Europe.
Host: Kate Mason
With: Adam Crafton, Matt Slater, Rob Green
Featuring: Tim Bridge
Executive Producer: Adam Jones
Producer: Jay Beale
Videographer: Lara Sinclair
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Inside the summer transfer window, with Ornstein and Horncastle
2 september 2026 · 57 min
The transfer window is now closed after another summer of truly bonkers spending. Lees meer
Emma Paton is joined by The Athletic's David Ornstein & James Horncastle to get into the deals that stood out and the deals that fell through, including Folarin Balogun's failed move to Everton that had repercussions for Chelsea.
Plus, the panel reveal their favourite signing of the summer, the transfer that made them double take and which set of fans shout be most concerned now the window has shut.
Host: Emma Paton
With: David Ornstein and James Horncastle
Executive Producer: Adam Jones
Producer: Jay Beale
Videographer: Grayson Moody
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Transfer Deadline Day reaction, with David Ornstein
1 september 2026 · 1 uur 1 min
Welcome to our Deadline Day coverage with The Athletic's transfer specialist, David Ornstein, hosted by Emma Paton. Lees meer
They are joined by football analyst JJ Bull and other The Athletic reporters to figure out what transfers could still happen and analyse the latest news.
Host: Emma Paton
Co-hosts: David Ornstein, JJ Bull, Seb Stafford-Bloor
Exec Producer: Adam Jones
Producers: Don Ma, Mike Stavrou
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.