The Daily Football Briefing

Man Utd reach agreement with Sporting Oct 31, 2024

Manchester United aren’t wasting any time. They sacked Erik Ten Hag on Monday and they reached agreement with Sporting over Ruben Amorim on Thursday. Laurie Whitwell joins us to explain what’s been happening.

And how good are Bayern Munich really? They’re unbeaten in the Bundesliga, but that Barcelona result was pretty rough. Seb Stafford Bloor has been watching them and he’s written an assessment for The Athletic which he helpfully condenses for us here.

Plus how much trouble are Man City in and why? And will Arsenal’s wonderkid keep his place in the team? Find out here.

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Laurie Whitwell, Seb Stafford Bloor, Sam Lee

Producer: Si Watts

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Post Ten Hag era starts with 5-2 win Oct 30, 2024

Manchester United had a rare fun night at work on Wednesday, levelling Leicester City in an enjoyable 5-2 victory. Casemiro scored twice. Twice! Laurie Whitwell was there.

Manchester City are out at the hand of Spurs, which means this competition is now wide open. Jack Pitt Brooke was watching.

We had people at Aston Villa for their defeat to Crystal Palace, Brighton for Liverpool’s win, Preston for Arsenal’s teenage goalkeeper and Liam Twomey was watching Chelsea on the telly. And we’ve got all the big scores from elsewhere including another very good night for Aberdeen.

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Laurie Whitwell, Jack Pitt-Brooke, Andy Jones, Jordan Campbell, Jacob Tanswell and Liam Twomey.

Producer: Si Watts

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Amorim set for Man Utd job Oct 29, 2024

What’s the latest on Manchester United’s hunt for a new manager? Laurie Whitwell joins us with an update. Ruben Amorim is the man they want and they are in a hurry to get this done.

Southampton survived a bit of a scare against Stoke City, they’re through to the last eight. Brentford needed penalties to beat Sheffield Wednesday. But they were brilliant penalties.

Napoli are top of Serie A, Dortmund are out of the DFB Pokal and we’ve got loads of other scores from around the world too.

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Jay Harris, Laurie Whitwell

Producer: Steve Hankey

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Where do Man Utd go from here? Oct 28, 2024

It’s felt like it’s been coming for some time, so how quickly will Manchester United look to replace Erik ten Hag following news of his departure on Monday?

Carl Anka looks back on a frantic day at Old Trafford and what t expect under current interim boss Ruud van Nistelrooy, although could Sporting’s Ruben Amorim be on his way in imminently?

Sam Lee has been watching events at the Ballon d’Or, where Real Madrid are really not happy and they’ve let everybody know about it.

Plus, all the scores from Monday’s action and news from the rest of Europe including an injury blow for Brighton, a new club for Mario Balotelli and the Italy legend who could be set for a sensational return to Serie A at the age of FORTY EIGHT!

Need something to read? Catch up with David Ornstein and Adam Crafton’s insight into Manchester United’s move for Ruben Amorim:

https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5880077/2024/10/28/manchester-united-manager-next-ruben-amorim/

Need something to listen to? The Athletic FC podcast looks back on how it all went so badly wrong for Erik ten Hag:

https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/podcast/144-athletic-football-podcast/episode-921/

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Carl Anka, Sam Lee

Producer: Si Watts

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EMERGENCY POD: Man Utd sack Erik ten Hag Oct 28, 2024

It’s happened, Manchester United have sacked their manager Erik Ten Hag following Sunday’s defeat to West Ham. David Ornstein and Adam Crafton broke the story and David joins us to explain what happened.

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: David Ornstein

Producer: Abi Paterson

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Honours even at Emirates, but are Real Madrid ok? Oct 27, 2024

It’s been quite a weekend, hasn’t it? Who would have thought that Arsenal’s clash with Liverpool would be struggling to make the top three stories?

Two giants of European football experienced desperately disappointing weekends. Manchester United, of course, are used to that sort of thing. But Real Madrid? Did anyone expect the European champions to be torn apart in their own home by Barcelona?

But we’re here for all your Monday morning questions. Like, how did Bayern Munich react to their midweek misery? Who won in the French top of the table clash between PSG and Marseille? And did Aberdeen win because I am now really invested in them for reasons I do not understand.

Listen now. It’s 15 minutes of your life and you’ll be so pleased with the transaction, you won’t even want them back.

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Carl Anka, Liam Twomey, Jay Harris, Dermot Corrigan,

Producer: Si Watts

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Another Rough Night For Man Utd Oct 24, 2024

It’s two steps forward and three steps back for Manchester United at the moment. The confidence boosting victory over Brentford seems a long time ago already after this disappointing draw away at former manager Jose Mourinho’s Fenerbahce. Laurie Whitwell was there.

No such issues for Tottenham, they’ve won three from three after a good win over AZ Alkmaar in London. Teenage sensation Mikey Moore impressed again, Jay Harris is here to tell us how good he is.

And Chelsea are dominating a competition in which it doesn’t seem entirely fair that they get to play. They battered Panathinaikos 4-1 in front of Liam Twomey. Well, in front of lots of people really, but Liam was one of them.

Plus, Roberto Mancini has left Saudi Arabia. I wonder where he’ll end up next…

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Laurie Whitwell, Jay Harris and Liam Twomey

Producer: Steve Hankey

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Misery loves Kompany as Barca blast Bayern Oct 23, 2024

Well, I don’t think anyone expected that. Barcelona stuck four past a worryingly open Bayern Munich to put their Champions League campaign back on track. Pol Ballus was there, he thinks it’s was a performance for the ages and it’s rather hard to disagree.

Atletico Madrid’s performance will live long in the memory too, but possibly not for the same reasons. They were beaten 1-3 at home by Lille and the irony that Lille beat Real Madrid last time out is unlikely to console them.

Sam Lee watched Erling Haaland score quite the most remarkable goal I’ve seen in many years as Man City swept past Sparta Prague. And we’ve got all the other games from across the continent too. Well, most of the big ones. We drew the line at the Finnish Conference League play-offs.

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Pol Ballus, Sam Lee

Producer: Tom Fuller

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Villa top the Champions League Oct 22, 2024

Aston Villa have played three and won three, and they top the Champions League. More than that, they’ve successfully reversed their Ollie Watkins/Jhon Duran dynamic up front. Jacob Tanswell was there.

Real Madrid had a bit of a fright, they were 0-2 down to Borussia Dortmund after an hour. It ended 5-2 and Seb Stafford Bloor says it didn’t flatter them.

Arsenal picked up an important win in front of James McNicholas, AC Milan survived a ropey start against Club Brugge to win 3-1 in front of me. On my laptop, at least. And we have news on all the other CL games, including Juventus’ defeat at home to Stuttgart and PSG’s draw with PSV.

There were Championship games too, Nancy Froston was at Elland Road to see Leeds go second. Is there any other podcast that will bring you up to speed with all of this? There is not.

Need something to read? Got a strong stomach? Nick Miller digs into the Evangelos Marinakis phlegm-gate case. Yes, it’s as vile as it sounds.

https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5863991/2024/10/22/marinakis-spitting-fa-report/

Need something to listen to? The Athletic FC podcasts asks, just how good are Barcelona under Hansi Flick?

https://podfollow.com/athletic-fc-pod

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Jacob Tanswell, Seb Stafford Bloor, James McNicholas, Nancy Froston

Producer: Tom Fuller

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Palace still winless as Forest take the points Oct 21, 2024

Crystal Palace, so impressive at the end of last season, are still without a victory after they were beaten 1-0 at Nottingham Forest. What’s gone wrong? Matt Woosnam was there, maybe he knows?

It’s all about perspective though. Crystal Palace are in a far better position than Valencia. The former La Liga champions hit rock bottom of La Liga after they were beaten 1-3 at home by Las Palmas, who haven’t won a game since February. They’re getting relegated, aren’t they?

Plus: Close your eyes. Close them tight. Now, tell me the current top three of the Champions League. Can you do it? Of course you can’t. No-one can. That’s why you need this podcast. We’ll tell you who’s playing who, but we’ll also tell you what it all means. In so much as we can. I mean, what does anything mean, really? We’re all just flesh-wraiths, briefly animated for reasons we know not, condemned to lurch across this plane of existence, trying to do as little damage as we can in the short time that we’re here. We’re marooned on a tiny rock that hurtles through a near-infinity of open space. So, juxtaposed against this harrowing reality, sure, I’ll tell you what I think Girona against Slovan Bratislava means.

Plus, will Virgil van Dijk sign a new contract and which rapper is trying to buy Tranmere Rovers?

Need something to read? Try Liam Tharme’s excellent and thoughtful piece about the real issue with English coaches.

https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5853035/2024/10/21/thomas-tuchel-english-coaches-pathway/

Need something to listen to? Are you an NBA fan? Find The NBA Daily right here.

https://podfollow.com/nba-daily

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Matt Woosnam

Producer: Tom Fuller

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Liverpool win again. Oct 20, 2024

That’s ten wins from eleven games for new Liverpool boss Arne Slot and very little pleases those supporters more than a victory over Chelsea. James Pearce was there and he tells us what this performance might mean for Curtis Jones.

We’ve got the scores and the stories from the WSL with Abi Paterson, from Spain with Dermot Corrigan, from Germany with Seb Stafford Bloor and from picturesque Lake Como with James Horncastle. You simply will not find a more efficient way of finding out everything you need to know about the football than listening to this splendid little podcast.

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: James Pearce, Abi Paterson, Dermot Corrigan, Seb Stafford Bloor, James Horncastle

Producer: Abi Paterson

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Domestic football is back! Phew… Oct 17, 2024

International week is over, club football has returned and I think we’re all very thankful. We’re looking ahead to the Liverpool - Chelsea game with Liam Twomey, we’re chatting to Dermot Corrigan about Real Madrid and Barcelona and we’ve hauled JJ Bull out of a cocktail party to give us the lowdown on unbeaten Aberdeen.

Plus, all the scores from the Women’s Champions League and the surprise appearance of an Improptu International Week Gamers Club. Why would you listen to anything else?

Need something to read? Get a sneak preview of Thomas Tuchel’s football with a heavy duty tactics read from Mark Carey and Thom Harris:

https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5847535/2024/10/17/thomas-tuchel-england-tactics-analysis/

Need something to listen to? Check the mood at Old Trafford where they may not be looking forward to the return of club football with quite the same level of enthusiasm…Talk of the Devils is here.

https://podfollow.com/talk-of-the-devils

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Liam Twomey, Dermot Corrigan and JJ Bull

Producer: Si Watts

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What to expect from Tuchel Oct 16, 2024

With Thomas Tuchel signed, sealed and delivered we speak to David Ornstein following the new England manager’s first press conference while we look at the pro’s and con’s of his time at Chelsea with Simon Johnson.

As Arsenal begin life without women’s manager Jonas Eidvall, Megan Feringa was at the Emirates Stadium to keep an eye on any early signs of change as they took on Valerenga in the Champions League, while we look back on Manchester City’s dramatic win against St Polten in Austria.

Plus misery for Poch as the USA are beaten and yet another match ball for Lionel Messi.

Need something to read? Andy Jones takes a look at Liverpool’s clipboard-wielding ‘field coach’ Sipke Hulshoff - the often unseen key member of Arne Slot’s team:

https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5844715/2024/10/16/sipke-hulshoff-liverpool-assistant-profile/

Presenter: Matt Davies-Adams

With: David Ornstein, Simon Johnson, Megan Feringa, Paul Tenorio

Producer: Simon Watts

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England set to appoint Tuchel Oct 15, 2024

Thomas Tuchel is set to become the new manager of England. The news broke on Tuesday night, but Jack Pitt-Brooke pounced into action, he joins us to explain the thinking.

There was some Nations League football too. Pol Ballus watched Spain beat Serbia,while I greatly enjoyed another battling performance from Scotland and their fans’ merciless treatment of Cristiano Ronaldo.

Plus, in words that sports writers have never before been able to type, Sir Alex Ferguson is going to lose his job at Manchester United. Adam Crafton has more on his big story.

And Arsenal are looking for a new manager of their women’s team. Charlotte Harpur broke that one for us and she explains why it’s all over for Jonas Eidevall.

Need something to read? La Liga president Javier Tebas has been sounding off about FIFA and Matt Slater is here to explain all:

https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5845608/2024/10/15/club-world-cup-fifa-criticism/

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Jack Pitt-Brooke, Pol Ballus, Carl Anka, Adam Crafton and Charlotte Harpur

Producer: Tom Fuller

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Victories for Germany, France and Italy Oct 14, 2024

It was a good night for Europe’s traditional powers. Germany beat the Netherlands in a match of few chances, France beat Belgium in the game I really should have been watching and Italy thrashed Israel in the game James Horncastle was watching.

Elsewhere, why have Nigeria forfeited their game against Libya? And why is FIFPro, the footballers’ union, launching a legal complaint against FIFA? You’ll find out here.

Need something to read? You need JJ Bull’s guide to why Aberdeen are (sort of) Europe’s most in-form team.

https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5836751/2024/10/14/aberdeen-best-team-in-europe/

And if you want to know if Pep Guardiola could be England’s next manager, you need the Athletic FC podcast.

https://podfollow.com/athletic-fc-pod

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Steve Hankey, James Horncastle, Nnamdi Onyeagwara, Matt Slater

Producer: Steve Hankey

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Improved England get job done Oct 13, 2024

After Thursday’s appalling defeat at home to Greece, interim England boss Lee Carsley needed to get his side back on track. It wasn’t always pretty, but that’s exactly what they did. Goals from Jack Grealish, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Declan Rice put England back in contention for promotion out of the B Groups.

In the A Groups, Portugal are flying, they beat Poland. We’ve got the state of play across all of those upper groups for you, whether you like it or not.

Paul Tenorio watched Mauricio Pochettino’s first game in charge of the USMNT, he’s here to tell us how it went. And Abi Paterson is across all of the WSL, and some of the European games too.

Want to know why so many footballers are investing in esports teams? Ajay Rose has just the article for you.

https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5739705/2024/10/13/footballers-esports-david-beckham-neymar-casemiro/

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Jack Pitt-Brooke, Paul Tenorio, Abi Paterson

Producer: Lucy Oliva

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England stunned by Greece Oct 10, 2024

Well…that wasn’t very good, was it? England had made a steady start to life under Lee Carlsey, but our man at Wembley Jack Pitt-Brooke called them ‘abysmal’ as they crashed to a 1-2 defeat.

Belgium boss Domenico Tedesco could have been in trouble too, his side were being played off the park by Italy until Lorenzo Pellegrini was sent off and so the Belgians came back from 0-2 down to draw 2-2.

Australia had a great result against China, Ghana didn’t against Sudan (yes, we’re casting our eye over the rest of the world now) but the worst news of the day is undoubtedly the announcement that Football Manager 2025 will be delayed until March next year. How will we live?

Need to know how Belgian football works? Check out Alex Stewart’s epic, single-take masterpiece for TIFO

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UfThFvENg3s&t=194s

Want to hear that Tom Williams French football interview? Click the link here

https://open.spotify.com/episode/1k6zJnindZZa0z5hN8xJ4x?si=9hsaycPdQHGb0DTZlnHA0Q

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Jack Pitt-Brooke

Producer: Tom Fuller

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Klopp takes Red Bull job Oct 09, 2024

Jurgen Klopp is coming back to football, but not as a manager. He’s going to be the Global Head of Soccer at Red Bull. So what does that actually mean? Simon Hughes joins us to discuss further.

It was an exciting night in the UEFA Women’s Champions League where Arsenal were taken apart in the second half by Bayern Munich, they were beaten 5-2. No such issues for Manchester City though, they were excellent in their 2-0 victory over Barcelona.

International week is boring, is it? Tell that to fans of Australia, Ghana and Brazil. Find out why this is a massive week for them.

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Simon Hughes, Charlotte Harpur

Producer: Si Watts

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Txiki Begiristain to leave Man City Oct 08, 2024

Manchester City’s director of football Txiki Begiristain is set to leave the club at the end of the season, it’s going to be a huge loss for the club, but what does it mean for Pep Guardiola?

And Chelsea got off to a very decent start in the UEFA Women’s Champions League, they beat Real Madrid 3-2 at Stamford Bridge and Megan Feringa was there for us.

Plus, Tottenham assistant coach Ryan Mason could be the new manager of Anderlecht. Find out more here.

Need something to read? Mark Carey has been scanning down the list of potential Erik ten Hag replacements and he’s put together quite the dossier here

https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5815401/2024/10/08/manchester-united-manager-shortlist/

Need something to listen to? The new Totally Football Show European Edition is live, it’s still my favourite football podcast and it’s right here

https://podfollow.com/totallyfootballshow

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Sam Lee, Megan Feringa

Producer: Tom Fuller

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Did Manchester City just win…or lose that legal battle? Oct 07, 2024

A battle, not the battle, between Manchester City and the Premier League has ended with a written verdict and both sides have moved quickly to claim victory. But who’s right? And what does it mean? Thank heavens that Jacob Whitehead is here to explain it.

There’s not very much football on for the next few days, but there is the Women’s Champions League. Who’s playing? What does it all mean? Charlotte Harpur is here to preview the games.

Plus, should you read Transformer, Neil Atkinson’s new book about Jurgen Klopp? And what’s all this about a new contract for Jhon Duran. And who in global football is injured this week? Find it all here.

Need something to read? Oli Kay is asking, what’s next for Paul Pogba.

https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5822266/2024/10/07/pogba-juventus-dhea-cas/

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Jacob Whitehead, Charlotte Harpur

Producer: Tom Fuller

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Extended DFB due to excess football drama Oct 06, 2024

Right, lap this up because it’s international week now and we all know what that means. We’ve got an extended-by-popular-demand FIFTEEN minute episode to wrap up the weekend’s football because there’s so much drama and I always end up having to read at x1.5 speed to fit it all in.

We had Laurie Whitwell watching Manchester United’s draw at Aston Villa, we had Liam Twomey watching Chelsea drop points to Nottingham Forest, we had Jack Pitt-Brooke watching Spurs Spurs it all up at Brighton, but that’s not all because we’re not the sort of parochial podcast that only cares about its own backyard.

We’ve got Seb Stafford-Bloor on Bayern, we’ve got Pol Ballus on Barcelona, we’ve got updates from the second rank of global football, which as anyone knows is the Netherlands, Portugal, Scotland, Turkey and Major League Soccer.

We’ve got it all, so click now or wander about all day feeling like you’re not really caught up on it all.

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Laurie Whitwell, Liam Twomey, Jack Pitt-Brooke, Seb Stafford-Bloor, Pol Ballus

Producer: Lucy Oliva

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Man Utd salvage point and perhaps Ten Hag’s job too Oct 03, 2024

Where do you even start with Manchester United? Two nil up, three two down and then Harry Maguire scores possibly the most important header of Erik Ten Hag’s career. Is it a good result or a bad result? Does this intensify the pressure or relieve it? Does anyone know anymore? Charlotte Harpur was in Porto, she joins us to explain what just happened.

By contrast, Spurs had a far easier night and Jay Harris is here to tell us which of their young players caught the eye. And Simon Johnson was watching Chelsea, seeing if they can do stuff without Cole Palmer. And indeed they can.

Plus, we’ve got all the scores from the big games, some of the scores from the small games and some stuff on Inter Miami too.

Need something to read? Liam Twomey and Dan Sheldon have been speaking to the people who know Cole Palmer best to ask the entirely reasonable question, “Did anyone expect him to be this good?”

Need something to listen to? The TIFO Podcast is back in its original form, it’s sort of like Monty Python meets Match of the Day and it is, according to recent reviews, the second best podcast on our network. Behind us. Obviously.

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Jay Harris, Charlotte Harpur, Simon Johnson

Producer: Abi Paterson

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Historic night for Villa as Bayern are vanquished Oct 02, 2024

Was this the second greatest night in Aston Villa’s history? And also the second greatest victory over Bayern Munich? Has any manager had as much of an impact on one club in just two years as Unai Emery?

And what on earth happened to Real Madrid? How did they manage to lose to Lille? Mind you, RB Leipzig will be asking exactly the same thing after they let a 2-1 lead slip against a ten man Juventus. Liverpool had a good night though, they beat Bologna 2-0.

We had people at all of those games and you can hear from them if you just click that play button right now. Go on, do it. Live a little. You know what they say: If you’re not living on the edge, you’re taking up too much room.

Need something to read? Pol Ballús and Laia Cervelló Herrero have done a long read on La Masia, a location of dramatically increased importance to Barcelona now that they’ve done all their money and half their players are knacked.

Need something to listen to? You can get a more detailed recap of the Champions League games on The Totally Football Show, still the best football podcast out there.

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Jacob Tanswell, Guillermo Rai, Seb Stafford Bloor, James Pearce

Producer: Abi Paterson

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Arsenal stop PSG in their tracks Oct 01, 2024

The second week of the new look Champions League started with a bang; Arsenal beat PSG 2-0 at The Emirates and you can actually hear Amy Lawrence grinning as she reports into us.

It was a tough night for Celtic as they were taken to the cleaners by Borussia Dortmund, but at least they weren’t the only team to get a thrashing. Man City crushed Slovan Bratislava, Barcelona smacked down the Young Boys, we had Seb Stafford-Bloor, Sam Lee and Dermot Corrigan watching those games, and we also had Mark Carey watching the comparatively quiet Bayer Leverkusen win over AC Milan. He drew the short straw.

Plus there are scores and news from all the nights other games, including that rarest of things; a marvellous night for Sunderland.

Need something to read? Andy Mitten on Manchester United is always unmissable

Need something to listen to? The award winning Athletic FC is asking if Cole Palmer is the best footballer in the Premier League. Listen here.

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Amy Lawrence, Sam Lee, Seb Stafford Bloor, Dermot Corrigan, Mark Carey

Producer: Abi Paterson

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Ten Hag safe…for now Sep 30, 2024

Manchester United resisted the temptation to immediately dismiss Erik Ten Hag after Sunday’s humiliation, but he’s heading into an extremely tough week and you wonder how much longer he can survive. Laurie Whitwell is our man on the ground at Old Trafford, he joins us with an update.

It was a tough night for Southampton boss Russell Martin. His team were taken apart in a brutal first half away at Bournemouth and you wonder how much patience there is at the club for his methods. This is a brittle football team, they collapsed when the first goal went in and could have conceded more. Alas, we no longer live in an age where ‘winning the second half’ counts for anything.

And there’s a lot of Champions League football coming up. Can you remember what happened a fortnight ago and what it all means? Nope, us neither. But we’ve made you a comprehensive briefing.

Need something to read? Everyone (including us) has been focusing on Man Utd being really bad, so why not spend some time reading about Tottenham being really good with Ahmed Walid’s tactical breakdown?

Need something to listen to? Well, in a similar mood, let us direct you to our Tottenham podcast, View From The Lane with the wonderful Danny Kelly

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Laurie Whitwell and Julien Laurens

Producer: Abi Paterson

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How much worse can it get for Man Utd? Sep 29, 2024

It’s been another miserable weekend for Manchester United. Yes, they were reduced to ten men in the first half, but you sensed they’d lost the game long before then. They were fortunate that Spurs only scored three. Charlotte Harpur was there for us.

Barcelona’s 100% record has gone, they were beaten 4-2 by Osasuna. How? Dermot Corrigan joins us to explain exactly what happened back there. And the big one in Madrid was a fiery affair. It ended 1-1 but that was only half the story…

And what happened when the two biggest teams in German football went head to head at the weekend? Seb Stafford-Bloor knows because he went to watch.

PLUS: All the important updates from all the divisions I run on my Football Manager saves. So that’s England, Spain, Germany, Italy and France, plus the Netherlands, Portugal, Turkey, Scotland and the United States. We don’t do Belgium because we don’t understand what they do there.

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Charlotte Harpur, Dermot Corrigan, Seb Stafford-Bloor

Producer: Lucy Oliva

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Spurs shake off early red for crucial win Sep 26, 2024

You had to feel for Ange Postecoglou. Seven minutes into a must win Europa League opener and Radu Drăgușin gets himself sent off. If he’d lost this, the pressure would really have made itself known. But against all odds and expectations, Spurs prevailed. And in style. Jack Pitt-Brooke was there. Eventually. After a two hour walk in the rain.

Meanwhile, flu-ravaged Producer Lucy was watching Serie A crisis club Roma as they battled Athletic Bilbao. They started well, but then Athletic brought out the big guns and salvaged a point.

As the only member of staff with a subscription to Premier Sports, I was on Atletico duty ahead of the big derby on Sunday night. And if Diego Simeone’s men play like this, they’ll get their pants pulled down. They beat Celta Vigo, but it was very, very much against the run of play.

Need something to read? If you’re NFL-curious, Nate Taylor has written an excellent piece on Travis Kelce, arguing that he’s not washed up, it isn’t Taylor Swift’s fault and people should lighten up.

https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5792045/2024/09/26/travis-kelce-slow-start-performance-chiefs/

Need something to listen to? Whenever Manchester United slip up, it’s always worth listening to Talk of the Devils where the analysis is considered and objective and a welcome relief from all of the noise.

https://podfollow.com/talk-of-the-devils

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Jack Pitt-Brooke

Producer: Lucy Oliva

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Manchester United slip up again Sep 25, 2024

Manchester United dropped two points on their first night in UEFA’s giant new Europa League, they were leading against Twente right up until the moment they weren’t…United have only beaten Fulham, Southampton and Barnsley this season, they just don’t seem to be improving.

Liverpool and Arsenal are all right though. The Red breezed past struggling West Ham at Anfield and a team full of teenagers did the business against League One’s Bolton Wanderers at The Emirates.

Talking of teenagers, Barcelona’s match day squad is packed with them now because everyone else is injured. They just about got past Getafe and they have seven wins from seven games.

Need something to read? The Athletic has a full Spanish news bureau, don’t you know? They’ve put their expertise to good use, speculating on how Real Madrid might operate without Kylian Mbappe.

https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5793881/2024/09/25/mbappe-injury-real-madrid-replacements/

Need something to listen to? The Athletic FC podcast is going deep on the Everton takeover. Get stuck in right here.

https://podfollow.com/the-athletic-football-show

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Andy Jones and Carl Anka

Producer: Lucy Oliva

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Wins for Chelsea, Man City and Real Madrid (just) Sep 24, 2024

After all the criticism over the summer, Chelsea are having a lovely time right now. Sure, Barrow are a League Two side (top of League Two though…) but a 5-0 win will boost the confidence of all concerned. They go through to the next round along with Man City, Aston Villa and Leicester.

Real Madrid spent 85 minutes making their critics eat their words and then switched off, allowing Alaves to come from three goals down to pushing hard for the most unlikely of equalisers. Carlo Ancelotti looked distinctly unamused.

And finally, Blackpool beat Huddersfield 3-0. We didn’t have room for it in the show, but wanted to pay tribute to Steve Bruce somewhere. That’s three wins from three for the former Newcastle boss.

Need something to read? Matt Slater and Paddy Boyland have broken down the Everton takeover news with a very accessible explainer article that gives you the information you need so that you can pass it off as your own in the pub. I do this all the time, it’s perfectly reasonable behaviour.

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Simon Johnson and Sam Lee

Producer: Abi Paterson

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Is Rodri out for the rest of season? Sep 23, 2024

It is the bleakest of news for Manchester City fans. Rodri, the man who holds their shape together, the man they really miss when he’s out, could be gone for the whole season with a knee injury. Sam Lee is here to tell us just how bad this could be for City. And how good it could be for everyone else…

City aren’t the only elite team to have been rocked by injury news. Barcelona’s Marc Ter Stegen is out for the rest of the season too. Pol Ballus is here with more.

A deal has been agreed for the sale of Everton, but is this good news or bad news? The new owners aren’t exactly doing very well over at Roma. Matt Slater tells us what he thinks about it all.

Need something to read? Gregg Evans and James Pearce have written a really interesting and balanced piece about the lack of atmosphere at Anfield, something I always noticed if I was covering a Saturday 3pm kick off there. I should say I’ve been there for night games and it was always amazing, but it’s a fine piece.

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Sam Lee, Pol Ballus, Matt Slater

Producer: Abi Paterson

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Arsenal and Man City serve up instant classic Sep 22, 2024

You’ll be hearing and reading about City 2-2 Arsenal for some time this week. 20 players were camped in City’s final third for all of the second half, Arsenal were a stones throw from victory - well Stones’ head in the end.

We have your full round up from the rest of the Premier League, get your pen out, there’s loads of stats for you to take note.

In Europe Milan defeated Inter for the first time in seven matches, James Horncastle has the details. Bayern continue to score a truck load of goals. As do Real Madrid and Barcelona but Ter Stegen’s knee needs checking out

Need something to read? Players are heading to Brazil - here’s why https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5779640/2024/09/22/brazil-signings-payet-bolasie-depay-lewis/

And a tribute to Toto Schillaci https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5781645/2024/09/21/toto-schillaci-tribute-italy/

Email me with your thoughts it’s apaterson@theathletic.com

Host: Abi Paterson

With: James Horncastle, Sam Lee, Adrian Clarke

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David Raya, take a bow Sep 19, 2024

There was once a time when Arsenal fans didn’t like David Raya. Didn’t like that he’d taken the number one jersey. Didn’t think he was one of the top goalkeepers. Well, Thursday night’s double save against Atalanta has surely by now changed everyone’s mind. Amy Lawrence was watching Arsenal come away with a hard earned point in Bergamo.

In the night’s other matches, Barcelona conspired to beat themselves, although Monaco helped as well. Leipzig lost in the last minute to Atletico Madrid. Bayer Leverkusen were purring in Rotterdam. But the story of the night goes to Brest, winners in their first ever European game.

Elsewhere we hear that all is not well with the Fifa Club World Cup.

And we look ahead to what’s set to be a thrilling season in the WSL.

Need something to read? Arsenal’s mad methods is seriously odd https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5766723/2024/09/19/arteta-arsenalmethodology-balvers/

As is Adam Crafton’s detail on the FIFA Club World Cup TV crisis https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5779549/2024/09/19/fifa-club-world-cup-broadcast-rights/

Email me with your thoughts it’s apaterson@theathletic.com

Host: Abi Paterson

With: Amy Lawrence, Seb Stafford Bloor, Megan Feringa

Producer: Steve Hankey

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Impressive Inter frustrate Man City Sep 18, 2024

It wasn’t quite as rip roaring a night in the Champions League as we had on Tuesday but still plenty to ponder after night two.

Such as, how Inter were able to quell Man City. Why PSG REALLY needed a win against Girona. And why we all need to go to Celtic Park for a Champions League match.

Spurs were very nearly the headline as they needed an extremely late comeback to beat, um, Coventry in the League Cup.

It was a mixed evening for Arsenal and Man City in the Women’s Champions League.

Plus we remember Italia 90 cult hero Salvatore Schillaci. Listen to Golazzo on Apple or Spotify

Send me an email, it’s apaterson@theathletic.com

Host: Abi Paterson

With: Michael Cox, Jack Pitt Brooke, Pete Rutzler, Charlotte Harpur

Producer: Steve Hankey

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Liverpool lift off with dominant victory over Milan Sep 17, 2024

Was it goals you wanted? Well, you’ve come to the right place. The Champions League had plenty of them last night. We have your full round up from the day’s action including Liverpool’s win over Milan, Real Madrid’s sketchy result against Stuttgart and Villa’s start to life in the biggest league of them all.

Elsewhere, players are starting to make noises about strikes due to the amount of games they’re playing.

Plus there was a 34 penalty shootout in England’s EFL Cup, Manchester United won a game comfortably, and Andy Carroll is back in the headlines.

Need something to read? Amy Lawrence found the Arsenal mascot who put the Tottenham ones in their places. https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5771821/2024/09/17/arsenal-mascot-tottenham-tunnel-danny/

Want to share your thoughts? Email me it’s apaterson@theathletic.com

Host: Abi Paterson

With: Thom Harris, James Pearce, and Dermot Corrigan

Producer: Steve Hankey

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Have you heard? The Champions League is back Sep 16, 2024

Monday began a significant week in the world of football. Yes the Champions League is back, we’ll get to that.

But first it was all about Manchester City, whose trial against the Premier League for alleged spending breaches got under way. Matt Slater is on hand to tell us what we should and should not expect.

We also had football on Monday in the form of League One’s finest: Tom Brady’s Birmingham facing Ryan Reynolds’ Wrexham. David Beckham was there, but so was Richard Sutcliffe.

And finally as promised, the Champions League returns with just the 64 more games this time around. We look at what Tuesday has to offer.

Need something to read? Jacob Whitehead has you covered in the Man City case https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5762324/2024/09/16/manchester-city-charges-explained/

While Jessy Parker Humphreys is getting us WSL ready with some of the new faces you need to know. https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5767934/2024/09/16/wsl-managers-new-season/

Send an email to apaterson@theathletic.com

Host: Abi Paterson

With: Matt Slater and Richard Sutcliffe

Producer: Steve Hankey

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

North London is red Sep 15, 2024

Arsenal won the North London derby and, after Liverpool’s slip up at home to Nottingham Forest, they re-take their place as Manchester City’s closest rivals. Because City obviously won again, didn’t they?

In Spain, Barcelona continue to impress. On the pitch, at least, and Real Madrid still don’t look quite right.

AC Milan have finally won a league game, that’s great news for manager Paolo Fonseca. How Roma must wish for such relief. A last minute equaliser consigned them to another weekend without a win.

We’ve got all the results and all the news you need. Press play now and you’ll be perfectly set up for the rest of the week. And boy, is it going to be a busy one….

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Michael Cox, Seb Stafford Bloor, James Horncastle

Producer: Steve Hankey

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mbappe vs PSG. Again. Sep 12, 2024

Kylian Mbappe has claimed that PSG owe him the better part of £50m in unpaid salary. He’s refused the offer of mediation and it looks like this battle is set to run and run. In public too, which will be entertaining. Phil Hay drops by to tell us more.

And Mikel Arteta has signed a new contract with Arsenal, removing the nagging fear that someone else might snaffle him at the end of the season when his contract runs out. Amy Lawrence explains why this is such reassuring news for Arsenal supporters.

Need something to read? Need something to read? Mark Critchley has broken down the Manchester United financial results so that you don’t have to, and it is the perfect example of an Athletic article filled with expertise, all of which can be easily passed off as your own in the pub this evening.

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Phil Hay and Amy Lawrence

Producer: Abi Paterson

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How bad are Brazil? Sep 11, 2024

Pretty bad. They’ve lost four of their eight World Cup qualifiers and, while it should technically be impossible for them to fail to make it to the World Cup, somehow they’ve made the prospect plausible. Jack Lang joins us to tell us more.

Mauricio Pochettino has been confirmed as the new manager of the USMNT, but how big a job is this? You would think that his time at Chelsea would have prepared him for anything but the USMNT are really, really bad right now. Where does he start? Pablo Maurer gives his verdict.

Need something to read? How about an exhaustive guide to English football nicknames from Tim Spiers?

https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5753588/2024/09/09/english-football-nicknames-premier-league/

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Jack Lang, Pablo Maurer

Producer: Steve Hankey

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Perfect start for Carsley Sep 10, 2024

England are two from two in the Nations League, which makes it a pretty decent start for interim boss Lee Carsley, anthem nonsense notwithstanding. Michael Bailey tells us what he made of a wet night at Wembley.

It’s not a new start for Germany boss Julian Nagelsmann, but so many key players retired in the summer that it sort of feels like one, Seb Stafford Bloor was watching that one.

And what’s got Kevin De Bruyne so riled up? Find out right here, right now, no delays, press play immediately.

Need something to read? In light of what’s happening at Chelsea, Simon Hughes discusses the weaknesses of a shared ownership model with reference to Hicks and Gillette, remember them? It is, as you would imagine from as fine a writer as Simon, absolutely marvellous and the link is in the description.

https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5747279/2024/09/10/chelsea-owners-civil-war/

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Seb Stafford Bloor and Michael Bailey

Producer: Lucy Oliva

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

More trouble at Chelsea… Sep 09, 2024

Didier Deschamps was not messing around. After France’s defeat to Italy on Friday, he rang the changes. Eight of them, in fact. And, after a wobbly start, he was rewarded with a comfortable 2-0 win. Italy are top of Group A2 though, they beat Israel 2-0 and have maximum points.

But the real question today is: What’s going on at Chelsea now? The Athletic reports that the relationship between key shareholders has completely broken down and they’re trying to buy each other out! Liam Twomey is back to explain more.

Need something to read? Remember that boy who could balance the ball on his head like a seal? Kerlon the Brazilian? He’d vanished off the face of the earth, no-one knew where he was. Jack Lang found him and got himself a lovely interview, treat yourself and click the link in the episode description.

https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5739187/2024/09/09/kerlon-seal-dribble-interview-brazil/

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Liam Twomey, James Pearce

Producer: Lucy Oliva

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ronaldo breaks Scottish hearts Sep 08, 2024

He’s done it again. Just as Scotland dared to believe they could take a point from Portugal, up pops You Know Who with goal number 901. It was a tough break for Scotland, though they should be used to that by now. They deserved more than to end this international week empty-handed.

Spain put in a fine performance in a soggy Geneva, they were reduced to ten men early on, but rallied to beat Switzerland 4-1.

Also, we’re lobbying for 20 year jail sentences for people who run onto the pitch to try to get a selfie with Ronaldo.

Need something to read? Matt Slater’s Business of Football column is always excellent, lots of stuff about ticket prices, player welfare and why PSG signing up with Pernod Ricard is such a controversial move. The link is in the description.

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Jack Pitt-Brooke, Seb Stafford Bloor, Paul Tenorio

Producer: Steve Hankey

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Ronaldo hits goal 900 Sep 05, 2024

Yep, we all laughed at him and so obviously he went out and scored. Cristiano Ronaldo helped Portugal beat Croatia 2-1 and, in doing so, broke the 900 barrier. Lionel Messi’s on 865, by the way. Sigh.

Spare a thought for Scotland. They were so much better against Poland than they were in Germany during the summer, but they still ended up getting beaten after giving away a 96th minute penalty to Poland.

And congratulations to San Marino, victors in a competitive game for the first time ever. Nicko Sensoli will never have to pay for a drink again.

Plus, why haven’t the USMNT completed the appointment of Mauricio Pochettino yet? And what are the USWNT going to do without Alex Morgan. Paul Tenorio and Meg Linehan join us with their thoughts.

And it wouldn’t be a Daily Football Briefing with Liam Twomey telling us something about Chelsea. But have they just done something…smart?

Got something to say to us? Oh, please say it, it’s international week and we need the content. Post it on the app or send me an email (imacintosh@theathletic.com) or, you know, write a review on Apple.

Need something to read? Try Matt Slater’s explainer about Leicester, PSR and the Twilight Zone. The link is in the description, but if you prefer to read with your ears, there’s a special Athletic FC podcast out today on the same subject.

https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5742838/2024/09/04/leicester-city-psr-premier-league/

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Liam Twomey, Paul Tenorio, Meg Linehan

Producer: Lucy Oliva

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Nations League...all funked up! Sep 04, 2024

Behold the new Nations League! Come on, it actually sounds like it might be fun. And anything’s better than an interminable stream of friendlies, right? The new structure means that every position in the group means something different, which means that there will be something on the line in every match. And that’s got to be good. Tomas Hill Lopez Marcheno drops in to let us know if Spain are still likely to steamroller everyone.

Plus, Steve Bruce is back! But is he ready for League One? And while we’re on the subject of old football managers, you’ll be needing one of those this Autumn because the new Football Manager has been delayed.

Got something to say? Oh, please say it, it’s international week and we need the content. Post it on the app or send me an email (imacintosh@theathletic.com) or, you know, write a review on Apple.

Need something to read? There’s a tremendous interview with Brighton owner Tony Bloom on The Athletic, really fine work from Andy Naylor and, well, with that Football Manager news, you may as well start a new save for the next three months, and this will give you food for thought.

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Tomas Hill Lopez-Menchero

Producer: Ben Green

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Is it really all doom and gloom for Man Utd? Sep 03, 2024

The late, great Eric Draven used to say that it can’t rain all the time. Manchester United supporters may disagree. It’s been another bad start to what might be another bad season, but Carl Anka isn’t so sure. He’s here with lots of reasons to be at least sort of optimistic about the future.

Can Everton be optimistic about anything? They’re the real crisis club in England. We’ve borrowed Matt Slater from The Athletic FC podcast to assess the situation.

Got something to say? Oh, please say it, it’s international week and we need the content. Post it on the app or send me an email (imacintosh@theathletic.com) or, you know, write a review on Apple.

Need something to read? Jay Harris, the aforementioned magnificent centre-back, has written all about Ivan Toney and the unsatisfying end to his incredible story at Brentford.

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Carl Anka, Matt Slater

Producer: Abi Paterson

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Why Kylian Mbappe is Europe’s least productive striker… (statistically) Sep 02, 2024

Well, sort of. He’s certainly got the lowest goal per shot ratio across Europe’s five biggest leagues. But then again, he does take a lot of shots. And now he’s got his eye in and he’s broken his duck, we can expect those numbers to change.

Plus, who won the transfer window? Tim Spiers is here and what he says may startle and alarm you. Because he’s been quite kind to Manchester United.

On that note, UEFA have done something good and constructive. And I, for one, am startled and alarmed.

Got something to say? Oh, please say it, it’s international week and we need the content. Post it on the app or send me an email (imacintosh@theathletic.com) or, you know, write a review on Apple.

Need something to read? Oli Kay is always excellent, but his column on the messiness of the transfer window is essential reading and the link is in the episode description.

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Tim Spiers

Producer: Abi Paterson

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Wretched Man Utd outclassed by Liverpool Sep 01, 2024

For their supporters, the most galling aspect of Manchester United’s heavy defeat to Liverpool will be the suspicion that this wasn’t even Liverpool at their best. It really could have been much worse. So where do they go from here? Carl Anka was at Old Trafford and needs a hug.

Kylian Mbappe has opened his account for Real Madrid, his brace against Real Betis gave his new team a confidence building result, but they’re still four points behind Barcelona.

And Bayer Leverkusen’s long unbeaten Bundesliga run is over. Seb Stafford Bloor is back to tell us why they shouldn’t be too concerned about what happened on Saturday.

It’s all in the Great Big Monday Round-up, everything you need to know from the ten biggest leagues in the world. Well, it’s the ten leagues that I run on my FM games anyway.

Need something to read? Phil Hay’s moving tribute to Sol Bamba is, well, as wonderful as you would expect. The link is in the description and the thoughts of everyone at The Athletic are with Sol’s friends and family.

https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5737310/2024/09/01/sol-bamba-leeds-cardiff-ivory-coast/

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Carl Anka, Seb Stafford Bloor

Producer: Lucy Oliva

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is the new Champions League really all that bad? Aug 29, 2024

We’ve been quite critical of the new-fangled Champions League here and a lot of that criticism still stands, but…did anyone else watch that draw and think, “Well…it’s not perfect. It might not even be good. But it does look a bit more fun than the old way.”

Plus, how did Chelsea get on against Servette? And what on earth happened to Real Madrid when they went to the Canary Islands?

Got something to say? Post it on the app or send me an email (imacintosh@theathletic.com) or, you know, write a review on Apple.

Need something to read? Try Jack Pitt-Brooke on the new era of Lee Carsley at England.

https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5728690/2024/08/29/england-carsley-gomes-grealish/

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Liam Twomey, Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Aleksandr Čeferin

Producer: Steve Hankey

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A shock in the League Cup and Atletico Madrid drop more points Aug 28, 2024

A shock in the League Cup and Atletico Madrid drop more points.

Poor old Ipswich. Dealt a horrendous pair of opening Premier League fixtures with Liverpool at home and then Manchester City away, they must have been looking forward to their little trip to fourth division AFC Wimbledon. Abi Paterson was there for this cruellest of blows.

Nottingham Forest met Newcastle and one Sandro Tonali in the glamour tie of the round. Guy Clarke was watching that one for us.

Atletico Madrid spent big this summer, but they’ve dropped four points from three games and, despite racking up an xG of 2.71, they just couldn’t break down Espanyol.

All that, the League Cup third round draw, the last Champions League qualifiers and the latest transfer news. How do we get all of this content into just ten minutes of high quality audio? Simple. I scream at people until they get it right.

Got something to say? Don’t keep it to yourself. That’s how ulcers develop. Post it on the app or send me an email (imacintosh@theathletic.com) or, you know, write a review on Apple.

Need something to read? Here’s that Champions League draw article that you absolutely must read.

https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5716629/2024/08/28/uefa-ucl-europa-draw-swiss/

Need something to watch? Here’s that Bernal video I mentioned from JJ Bull.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pp8ajQgfMQg

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Abi Paterson, Guy Clarke, James Pearce and Neil Mellor

Producer: Steve Hankey

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dani Olmo gets Barcelona off the hook in Madrid Aug 27, 2024

Dani Olmo is finally a registered Barcelona player and just in the nick of time. The Catalans were staring down the barrel of a nasty shock away at Rayo Vallecano until Olmo appeared at the break and inspired a spirited fight back. That’s three wins from three for new boss Hansi Flick.

Everton were in the League Cup against Doncaster and, after the start they’ve had, that was quite the banana skin. Producer Steve was watching to see if anyone slipped up.

Transfer deadline day is looming and the transfers are coming thick and fast. Manchester United have been busy, so too have Napoli, but has anyone been as active as Brighton & Hove Albion? Listen to this episode and you’ll discover why this is unlikely to be a problem for their bank manager.

Got something to say? Don’t keep it to yourself. That’s how ulcers develop. Post it on the app or send me an email (imacintosh@theathletic.com) or, you know, write a review on Apple.

Need something to read? Need something to read? Try Carl Anka on Manchester United’s steady improvement in the transfer market, an arena in which they have hitherto cast themselves as, well, the polar opposite of Brighton. Link’s in the description

https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/4757969/2024/08/27/manchester-united-transfers-sales/

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: David Ornstein

Producer: Steve Hankey

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brace yourself for Heavy Metal Football….statistics. Aug 26, 2024

Did you know that Kobbie Mainoo has more interceptions than any other player in Europe’s top five leagues? Or that Brice Samba is one of only six unbeaten goalkeepers on the continent? Of course you didn’t. You’re a normal human being with an exciting life outside of football. But if you do like that sort of thing, you’ll love today’s show and a feature that will run until you all write in to demand that it stops.

Plus, it was a very good night for Juventus, we’ve learned how to say Cagliari and who’s that at the top of La Liga with three wins from three? Nope, it’s not who you think.

Got something to say? Get it off your chest, post it on the app or send me an email (imacintosh@theathletic.com) or, you know, write a review on Apple.

Need something to read? Danny Taylor’s lovely Sven Goran Eriksson piece is linked in the description.

https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5722811/2024/08/26/sven-goran-eriksson-england/

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

Producer: Steve Hankey

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Oh no. Were we all wrong about Chelsea? Aug 25, 2024

We’ve been very mean about Chelsea for several weeks now, but are they about to have the last laugh? They put six past Wolves on Sunday. Tim Spiers was watching, he’ll tell us if we’re all in a lot of trouble. Manchester United lost too, Carl Anka is looking for positives there.

But we don’t just discuss the Premier League here. Seb Stafford Bloor went to Saxony for the Bayern Munich game, I was watching Napoli, we’ve got all the news from Spain and France and then we’ll quick-step through Portugal, the Netherlands, Scotland, Turkey and MLS. Or, as I like to think of it, ‘all the leagues I have active in my FM saves.’

Put simply: You NEED this podcast. You’ll never keep up with all the football unless you listen to this immediately. In ten minutes, we’ll give you the world. Or at least the bits that interested us today.

Got something to say? Get it off your chest, post it on the app or send me an email (imacintosh@theathletic.com) or, you know, write a review on Apple.

Need something to read? Tim Spiers has watched every video on Cristiano Ronaldo’s YouTube channel so that you don’t have to, he’ll get a statue for this, you can read about it by clicking the link in the description.

https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5718836/2024/08/25/cristiano-ronaldo-youtube-channel/

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Tim Spiers, Carl Anka, Seb Stafford-Bloor

Producer: Abi Paterson

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Bundesliga’s back baby Aug 22, 2024

Another weekend filled with football approaches so we have your one stop guide to the fixtures you should be keeping an eye on - and a mini Bundesliga preview. Though you really should read Seb Stafford Bloor’s words, he knows what he’s talking about.

Elsewhere Chelsea were in action, so was David De Gea, and Cristiano Ronaldo, find out how they got on. Plus the big transfer news too with James McNicholas on Mikel Merino and George Caulkin reacting to news that Kieran Trippier might be off.

Got something to say? Get it off your chest, post it on the app or send an email (imacintosh@theathletic.com) or, you know, write a review on Apple.

Find Seb Stafford Bloor’s full Bundesliga preview here

https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5705002/2024/08/21/bundesliga-new-season-bayern-leverkusen-dortmund-leipzig/

And have a read of Jacob Whitehead’s ‘Inside the De Ligt Deal’ here

https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5705404/2024/08/22/matthijs-de-ligt-manchester-united-inside-deal/

Presenter: Abi Paterson

With: Seb Stafford Bloor, James McNicholas, and George Caulkin

Producer: Steve Hankey

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are we being harsh on Chelsea? Aug 21, 2024

Enzo Maresca certainly thinks so. He says that Chelsea, “is not the mess that it looks from the outside.” So…has he got a point? We’ve got Simon Johnson from Straight Outta Cobham on the show to tell us more.

Plus, who’s the latest EFL manager to get sacked? Did anyone know Neil Lennon was at Rapid Bucharest? Don’t worry. Doesn’t matter now. And how do you say Cagliari? Hint: Don’t ask Google.

Got something to say? Get it off your chest, post it on the app or send me an email (imacintosh@theathletic.com) or, you know, write a review on Apple.

Need something to read? Try Stuart James’ account of his weekend with NBC’s Premier League team, it’s a really good, access all areas piece, you’ll love it, find the link in the episode description.

https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5712144/2024/08/21/premier-league-nbc-epl-lowe/

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Simon Johnson

Producer: Steve Hankey

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Why are Liverpool signing Mamardashvili now? Aug 20, 2024

Look, I love Georgi Mamardashvili as much as Mama Mamardashvili, but the timing of his move to Liverpool seems a bit odd. He’s a fantastic goalkeeper, but so is Allison and he’s only 31. And then there’s Caoimhin Kelleher, he’s as trustworthy as any number two in the league. What’s going on, James Pearce?

And what’s all this about Ilkay Gundogan returning to Manchester City? He only left last summer, why’s he leaving Barcelona?

And I know that I said we’d watch one of the U21 EFL Cup games, but it turned out that I couldn’t access United or City, the next on the list was Spurs, but given that their own official website hasn’t even mentioned this fixture, we just felt that the potential audience for that sort of granular coverage was probably limited to the parents of the players, so we gave it a miss and did a great big stats rundown instead. No, wait. Don’t go. It’s more interesting than I’ve made it sound.

Got something to say? Get it off your chest, post it on the app or send me an email (imacintosh@theathletic.com) or, you know, write a review on Apple.

Need something to read? Try Adam Crafton and David Ornstein’s report on the USMNT’s reported hire of Mauricio Pochettino. What’s the hold up, why isn’t this done…and will it be done in time for those games in September. Click the link here.

https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5707564/2024/08/18/mauricio-pochettino-usmnt-head-coach-what-next/

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: James Pearce and Sam Lee

Producer: Steve Hankey

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Oh, Spurs. Aug 19, 2024

A draw away from home is never a terrible result, but Tottenham supporters will wonder how they didn't take all three points from their trip to Leicester City. Foxes fans will have a concise two word answer: Jamie Vardy. The 37 year old striker stepped up when he was needed most, stayed switched on after a miserable first half, dragged his team back into the game and could have won it for them too.

View From The Lane, our Spurs podcast, will be unmissable this week. Danny Kelly may actually combust.

Elsewhere Juventus, now under the management of Thiago Motta, got off to a great start by crushing Como. James Horncastle is here to let us know if this fascinating Como project is in trouble already.

And it's a day ending with a 'y' so that must mean Chelsea have signed someone. More on that here.

Got something to say? Get it off your chest, post it on the app or send me an email (imacintosh@theathletic.com) or, you know, write a review on Apple.

Need something to read? Find out why Antonio Conte is so unhappy already by clicking the link below for premium grade James Horncastle.

https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5708302/2024/08/19/conte-napoli-verona/

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: James Horncastle, Liam Twomey

Producer: Steve Hankey

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City beat Chelsea! Madrid held by Mallorca! Napoli thrashed! Aug 18, 2024

On today's DFB: Welcome to the first Giant Monday Round-Up of the season. In just ten minutes, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about the weekend’s football. Like how Big Dan Burn chased Ben Brereton Diaz down the tunnel. And how Real Madrid slipped up in the Balearics. And how Bayer Leverkusen still haven’t lost a domestic game. You need this podcast, so click now and set yourself up for the week.

Need something to read? What about Michael Cox on Ipswich?

https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5706501/2024/08/17/ipswich-town-liverpool-tactics/

Got something to say? I bet you have. Post it on the app, send me an email (imacintosh@theathletic.com) or write a review on Apple.

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Seb Stafford Bloor, Liam Twomey

Producer: Lucy Oliva

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Pochettino set to take on USMNT job Aug 15, 2024

On today's DFB: The United States look like they've got their man. Mauricio Pochettino has agreed to manage the USMNT. Paul Tenorio lets us know what he thinks of that. La Liga is underway and we were watching how last season's surprise package Girona got on (spoiler: not as well as they might have hoped...)

Plus, what's happened to poor Oscar Bobb?

Need something to read? Check out James Horncastle's brilliant preview of the new Serie A season.

https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5697570/2024/08/15/horncastle-serie-a-preview-2024-25-juventus-inter-roma/

Got something to say? I bet you have. Post it on the app, send me an email

(imacintosh@theathletic.com) or write a review on Apple.

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Paul Tenorio

Producer: Steve Hankey

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Mbappé scores as Real win the Super Cup Aug 14, 2024

On today's DFB: How much trouble are the rest of La Liga in this season? On the evidence on the European Super Cup....lots of trouble. They haven't gelled yet, but they were still good enough for a comfortable win over a tricky Atalanta side. Pol Ballus is here to politely weigh up the chances of their rivals. Plus, what's going on at Chelsea today? And who are Arsenal looking to sign?

Need something to read? The Athletic's F1 mid-season preview is well worth your time. The second of the season could be absolutely fascinating, so click the link below to whet your appetite.

https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5696095/2024/08/13/f1-midseason-review-best-driver-race-moments/

Got something to say? I bet you have. Post it on the app, send me an email (imacintosh@theathletic.com) or write a review on Apple.

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Pol Ballus

Producer: Lucy Oliva

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What next for Liverpool after Zubi-snub? Aug 13, 2024

On today's DFB: Are Liverpool going to be ok without a big money signing? Is it a worry that they haven't made one? We've borrowed James Pearce from Walk On. Plus, we ask Chris Waugh from Pod on the Tyne where Newcastle are with their pursuit of Marc Guehi...and could they be the dark horses this year? It's pretty much just me asking that one.

Plus, what happened in those European qualifiers and were there any shocks in the League Cup?

Need something to read? Mark Carey has done a long read on the tactical evolution of the Premier League and it's so well written and accessible that even I understand it. Just click the link in the episode description.

https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5695766/2024/08/13/premier-league-tactical-development/

Got something to say? I bet you have. Post it on the app, send me an email (imacintosh@theathletic.com) or write a review on Apple.

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: James Pearce, Chris Waugh

Producer: Steve Hankey

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What on earth is going on at Chelsea now?! Aug 12, 2024

On today's DFB: Will there ever be a day when we ask Chelsea correspondent Liam Twomey how it's going and he says, "Yeah, it's pretty quiet actually." Thank goodness he's here to help out. Laurie Whitwell is on too, he's got the latest on Manchester United's shopping trip to Bavaria. Plus, what happened when Luton met Burnley? Is Vinicius Junior going to Saudi Arabia? And who was the first EFL manager to leave his job?

Need something to read? Adam Crafton had a one-on-one with Wolves manager Gary O'Neil and it's a fascinating insight into the mindset of one of the Premier League's most underrated managers. Just click the link in the episode description. https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5691699/2024/08/12/premier-league-wolves-oneil-interview/

Got something to say? I bet you have. Post it on the app, send me an email (imacintosh@theathletic.com) or write a review on Apple.

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Liam Twomey, Laurie Whitwell

Producer: Charlie Jones

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Get your first big European round-up of the season here Aug 11, 2024

USA win Gold in France, City edge out United at Wembley, Schalke are still inexplicably all over the place, Mourinho gets a first league win, Leeds and Portsmouth go goal crazy, Plymouth get battered and oh, so much more. Europe's league's are slowly firing back up again. You need this podcast in your life just to keep up with it all.

Need something to read? Casemiro might have a future at Manchester United after all. That's what Laurie Whitwell says anyway, and he knows his stuff.

Got something to say? I bet you have. Post it on the app, send me an email (imacintosh@theathletic.com) or write a review on Apple.

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Sam Lee

Producer: Abi Paterson

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Chelsea sign even more young footballers Aug 08, 2024

On today's DFB: Chelsea have been busy in the transfer market. Liam Twomey joins us to explain what's occurring. The Olympics are wrapping up this weekend, Meg Linehan has been hanging out with the USWNT. And the Community Shield is on Saturday. Carl Anka from Talk of the Devils pops in to let us know his thoughts.

Need something to read? James McNicholas has written a masterful account of Mikel Arteta's first five years. You'll love it, give it a click immediately. Well...when you've listened to the show, at least.

https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5681537/2024/08/07/ange-postecoglou-interview-tottenham-spurs/

Got something to say? I bet you have. Post it on the app, send me an email (imacintosh@theathletic.com) or write a review on Apple.

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Liam Twomey, Meg Linehan, Carl Anka

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

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Liverpool on the brink of their first Slot signing Aug 07, 2024

On today's DFB: Who's this Martin Zubimendi then? The word on the street, by which I mean David Ornstein, is that Liverpool are gfoing to make him the first signing of the Arne Slot era. And is everything okay with Leicester City? Rob Tanner is not so sure. And finally, ahead of what looks like a very interesting season in Serie A, James Horncastle gives us the low down on the new look AC Milan.

Need something to read? Seb Stafford Bloor has been following Spurs around Japan and South Korea. Check out his marvellous account of it all by clicking this link.

https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5681537/2024/08/07/ange-postecoglou-interview-tottenham-spurs/

Got something to say? I bet you have. Post it on the app, send me an email (imacintosh@theathletic.com) or write a review on Apple.

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: David Ornstein, Rob Tanner, James Horncastle

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

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Emma Hayes' USWNT reach the final Aug 06, 2024

On today's DFB: The USWNT will play Brazil in the final of the Olympics after a dramatic day in France. Meg Linehan and Mike Zimmermann were watching the semi-finals for us. Plus, what's going on with Atletico Madrid? How are they signing so many players? And how have Barcelona managed to buy Dani Olmo for £60m? Find out right here.

Need something to read? Try this brilliant account of Newcastle's pre-season tour from back-up goalkeeper Mark Gillespie, via our own George Caulkin: https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5681026/2024/08/06/newcastle-premier-league-tour-gillespie/

Post a comment on the app, send me an email (imacintosh@theathletic.com) or write a review on Apple.

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Dermot Corrigan, Pol Ballus, Meg Linehan and Mike Zimmermann

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

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France to face Spain in Olympic Men's Final Aug 05, 2024

On today's DFB: Neither team had it easy, but France will meet Spain in the Olympic Men's Final this weekend. Greg O'Keefe was watching the hosts, Pol Ballus reports in on the European champions. Plus, how are the USWNT looking ahead of their semi-final against Germany? Meg Linehan has the inside track. And, after a quiet few days, we've just had a lot of major transfers. Who's going where and why? Find out here.

Post a comment on the app, send me an email (imacintosh@theathletic.com) or write a review on Apple.

Want something to read? Try Adam Crafton’s access all areas account of Wolves’ pre-season tour: https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5678239/2024/08/05/premier-league-pre-season-tour-united-states/

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Greg O'Keefe, Pol Ballus, Meg Linehan

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

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We're back and ready for the new season (But are Chelsea?) Aug 04, 2024

On today's DFB: How do YOU feel about pre-season friendlies? Are they glorified training sessions or crucial barometers? This is a particularly pertinent question for Chelsea fans. Adam Crafton joins us to explain more. Tom Burrows was in Bordeaux for quite the night of Olympic football. But away from all the fume, just how good are Thierry Henry's French Olympic team? All that and stacks of transfer news too. Welcome back!

Post a comment on the app, send me an email (imacintosh@theathletic.com) or write a review on Apple.

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Adam Crafton, Tom Burrows

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Want something to read? Try Amy Lawrence's lovely piece on Arsenal's Italian connection: https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5674460/2024/08/04/riccardo-calafiori-italy-arsenal-transfer/

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We stayed up just in case...but it didn't come home Jul 15, 2024

On today's Briefing - Well, you know what? Spain were excellent and there's no shame in losing to the better team. They've been brilliant throughout this tournament, haven't they? Ah, but it gets you, doesn't it? Hope. When Cole Palmer sent that ball skidding into the bottom corner, just for a moment, I really did still believe. I thought Spain might start to tire and momentum would carry us over the line. In spite of everything I've learned since I stayed up in my pyjamas at the age of eight to watch England get knocked out the 1986 World Cup by Diego Maradona, I thought we were going to do. Sigh.

Plus! Argentina are Copa America champions!

Post a comment on the app, send me an email (imacintosh@theathletic.com) or write a review on Apple. The Daily Football Briefing will return on August 5.

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Mike Zimmermann

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

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It's Finals Day....how's the nerves? Jul 14, 2024

On today's Briefing - We're incapacitated by tension, so we're leaning heavily on our experts. Oli Kay hates the phrase 'It's Coming Home' and he's not convinced that it is anyway. Pol Ballus says that Spain are calm and focused, so maybe he's right. Jack Lang is eagerly awaiting the Copa America Final, but we'll be very drunk by the time that comes around. Pray for us.

Post a comment on the app, send me an email (imacintosh@theathletic.com) or write a review on Apple.

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Mike Zimmermann, Oli Kay, Pol Ballus, Jack Lang

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

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Why Jürgen Klopp said no to the USA Jul 12, 2024

On today's Briefing - Klopp said he needed a rest and he wasn't kidding. The US will have to search elsewhere. And what's going on with French football? Why haven't they got a TV deal in place? The season starts in a month!

Plus, did you spot the horrendous error in yesterday's show? Another humble apology is dispensed within. Sigh.

What's your favourite football book of all time? Let us know. And if you're listening on Spotify, there should be poll somewhere on this page. Unless I've broken Spotify.

Post a comment on the app, send me an email (imacintosh@theathletic.com) or write a review on Apple.

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: James Pearce, Tom Burrows and Saad Yousuf

Producer: Lucy Oliva

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Manchester United just posted a £71.4m quarterly loss. Are they ok? Jul 11, 2024

On today's Briefing - Are Man Utd in danger of failing PSR? We can't afford Margot Robbie in a bath, but we do have Mark Critchley.

And what's going on at Newcastle? And who are the USMNT going to appoint as their new manager?! It's all here.

Post a comment on the app, send Iain an email (imacintosh@theathletic.com) or write a review on Apple.

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Mark Critchley, Chris Waugh, Greg O'Keeffe

Producer: Lucy Oliva

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England are really good at football. Who saw this coming? Jul 11, 2024

On today's Briefing - England are through to the final of the European Championship and they actually deserve it. They were really good. It was most disconcerting. Argentina await their Copa American semifinal opponent - will it be Colombia or Uruguay?

PLUS: Just as we were finishing off the show, Gregg Berhalter left the USMNT. It's been quite a night...

Post a comment on the app, send Iain an email (imacintosh@theathletic.com) or write a review on Apple.

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Mike Zimmermann

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

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Lamine Yamal wraps up the goal of the tournament competition Jul 10, 2024

On today's Briefing - Spain are through to the final of the European Championships and they did it in style, with a wondergoal from their still-just-about 16 year old Lamine Yamal. And Argentina advance to their second consecutive Copa America final.

Plus: Seriously, why are multi-club models even allowed? It's completely against the spirit of the game and I don't understand why it hasn't been banned. But no-one ever reads this bit, so I can rant and rant and rant and no-one will ever know. There's a simple rule; if you wouldn't do it in Football Manager, you shouldn't do it in real football. Would you manage two clubs at once and sell players back and forth? Of course you wouldn't. You've got pride. You've got dignity. You're a DFB listener. I wish they were all like you. Sigh.

Post a comment on the app, send Iain an email (imacintosh@theathletic.com) or write a review on Apple.

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Mike Zimmermann

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

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Excitement builds for France and Spain... and Canada! Jul 08, 2024

On today's Briefing - for once, France won't be the favourites in a semi-final. But does anyone care or are they just enjoying the ride? And how good do Spain look? And what about Canada, eh? What a summer.

Post a comment on the app, send Iain an email (imacintosh@theathletic.com) or write a review on Apple.

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Charlotte Harpur, Tomás Hill López-Menchero, Joshua Kloke

Producer: Lucy Oliva

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What on earth happened to Brazil and are the Germans okay? Jul 07, 2024

On today's Briefing - Germany have given us such a lovely tournament, but they're out before the semi-finals. What does it all mean? And what happened to Brazil? And who's this Joshua Zirkzee I keep reading about?!

All these questions will be answered right here in under ten minutes.

Post a comment on the app, send Iain an email (imacintosh@theathletic.com) or write a review on Apple.

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Seb Stafford-Bloor, Jack Lang and Mark Carey

Producer: Lucy Oliva

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Planet in shock as England shine in penalty shoot out Jul 07, 2024

On today's Briefing - With five of the best penalties you'll ever see, England shook off another poor performance to take their place in the semi-finals. What magic is at work here? We think we know... And we say farewell to Turkey who won millions of new fans but, alas, not this game. The Dutch will meet the English on Wednesday. Plus, what happened in the Copa America?

Post a comment on the app, send Iain an email (imacintosh@theathletic.com) or write a review on Apple.

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Mike Zimmermann

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

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The end of the line for Ronaldo and Kroos Jul 06, 2024

On today's Briefing - Portugal and Germany crash out, France and Spain will meet in the first semi-final. Where did it all go wrong? We've got some ideas....Plus, what happened in the Copa America?

Post a comment on the app, send Iain an email (imacintosh@theathletic.com) or write a review on Apple.

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Mike Zimmermann

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Messi, Argentina survive a late collapse Jul 05, 2024

On today's Briefing - It's the first of quarterfinals in the Copa America. How did Lionel Messi's Argentina do against Eduador?

Plus: Erik ten Hag extends his contract at Manchester United. And: Newcastle United appoint a new sporting director.

Post a comment on the app, send Iain an email (imacintosh@theathletic.com) or write a review on Apple.

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Mike Zimmermann, Mark Critchley and Adam Crafton

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

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Will Ronaldo start? Well, yes. But should Ronaldo start? Jul 03, 2024

On today's Briefing - it's the debate that everyone wants in on; should Cristiano Ronaldo start for Portugal on Friday?! We speak to Tim Spiers.

Plus: What next for the USMNT? And: Bayern finally get their man!

Post a comment on the app, send Iain an email (imacintosh@theathletic.com) or write a review on Apple.

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Tim Spiers, Paul Tenorio and Seb Stafford-Bloor

Producer: Lucy Oliva

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Turkey deny Austria and, oh hello, the Dutch have turned up Jul 03, 2024

On today's Briefing - Austria vs Turkey was everything we expected it to be, the Dutch were much better than the Romanians hoped they were. The first knock out round ended in style. Plus - Colombia and Brazil entertained in the Copa America.

Post a comment on the app, send Iain an email (imacintosh@theathletic.com) or write a review on Apple.

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Mike Zimmermann

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

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Ronaldo weeps as Portugal sneak into last eight Jul 02, 2024

On today's Briefing - Well, that was all a bit dramatic. Portugal go through, but how long can Cristiano Ronaldo remain undroppable? France are through too, but that game was rather less exciting. Plus - the future of US Soccer is in limbo.

Post a comment on the app, send Iain an email (imacintosh@theathletic.com) or write a review on Apple.

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Mike Zimmermann

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

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Bellingham saves England Jul 01, 2024

On today's Briefing - England was on the verge of elimination, but saved by Bellingham and Kane heroics. Plus - the Georgian Cinderella story is over. And - What happened in the Copa?

Post a comment on the app, send Iain an email (imacintosh@theathletic.com) or write a review on Apple!

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Mike Zimmermann

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

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Italy exit Euro 2024 Jun 30, 2024

On today's Briefing - Defending champions Italy were eliminated by Switzerland in the Round of 16. Plus - Germany tops Denmark to advance to the quarter finals. And - What happened in the Copa?

Post a comment on the app, send Iain an email (imacintosh@theathletic.com) or write a review on Apple!

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Mike Zimmermann

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

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Brazil bounce back Jun 29, 2024

On today's Briefing - Brazil and Colombia push for their places in the quarterfinals of the Copa America. Plus - Who has been the best passing team at the Euros? And - Germany gets a big injury boost.

Post a comment on the app, send Iain an email (imacintosh@theathletic.com) or write a review on Apple!

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Mike Zimmermann

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

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USA's Copa America hopes in the balance Jun 28, 2024

On today's Briefing - The USA were in action in the Copa America. Are they on their way to the quarterfinals? Plus, Kevin De Bruyne speaks out about the Belgian fans and support.

Post a comment on the app, send Iain an email (imacintosh@theathletic.com) or write a review on Apple!

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Mike Zimmermann

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

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We're all Georgians now Jun 27, 2024

On today's Briefing - Are Georgia your new second favourite team? Or perhaps your first favourite team, if your nation of birth has been letting you down. They beat Portugal and beat them well, watch out for them in the next round. They'll be joined by Romania, Belgium and Slovakia, though they were far less fun. Plus, what happened in the Copa America last night?

Post a comment on the app, send Iain an email (imacintosh@theathletic.com) or write a review on Apple!

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Mike Zimmermann and Guy Clarke

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

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England: Less than fun. Jun 26, 2024

On today's Briefing - England are through as group winners, but not exactly in style. So too our Austria, and they really have been excellent. Will this get better? By thunder, I hope so. Plus, what happened in the Copa America and where is Mary Earps off too?

Post a comment on the app, send Iain an email (imacintosh@theathletic.com) or write a review on Apple!

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Mike Zimmermann and Guy Clarke

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

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Italy's great escape! Jun 25, 2024

On today's Briefing - How did they get away with that? Italy were seconds from a very nervous week, but a last gasp goal sends them through, quite possibly at the expense of Luka Modric's Croatia. Elsewhere, Spain's B Team eliminate Albania.

Plus, Brazil and Colombia were in action in the Copa America.

Post a comment on the app, send Iain an email (imacintosh@theathletic.com) or write a review on Apple!

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Mike Zimmermann and Guy Clarke

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

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Heartbreak for Scotland and a fright for Germany Jun 24, 2024

On today's Briefing - Germany very nearly slipped up and lost their grip on the top spot. Guy Clarke was watching. Meanwhile Scotland fell short once again, exiting yet another tournament in the first round. VAR...urgh...what is it good for? Absolutely nothing, it seems.

Plus, the USA were in action in the Copa America.

Who's your favourite unheralded player so far? Let us know. Post a comment on the app, send Iain an email (imacintosh@theathletic.com) or write a review on Apple!

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Mike Zimmermann and Guy Clarke

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

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Belgium finally turn up in Germany Jun 23, 2024

On today's Briefing - Belgium are up and running, they beat Romania 2-0, Portugal had a lovely time of it against Turkey and unlikely lads Georgia have a pathway to the knock out stage. Plus: Who have Aston Villa just sold and why? And what happened in the Copa last night?

Who's your favourite unheralded player so far? Let us know. Post a comment on the app, send Iain an email (imacintosh@theathletic.com) or write a review on Apple!

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Mike Zimmermann

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

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Are Austria everyone's second favourite team? (apart from Poland) Jun 22, 2024

On today's Briefing - Austria's bold 3-1 victory over Poland gives them a real chance of progression. They were certainly more fun than France and the Netherlands who played out a fairly dull draw. Plus: Where is Michael Olise going this summer? Hint: It's not Chelsea. And what happened in the Copa last night?

Who's your favourite unheralded player so far? Let us know. Post a comment on the app, send Iain an email (imacintosh@theathletic.com) or write a review on Apple!

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Mike Zimmermann

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

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Spain send out a message: We're back! Jun 21, 2024

On today's Briefing - Just how good were Spain against Italy? Spoiler alert: They were really, really good. Almost as good as England were bad, if that makes any sense at all.

Plus: What happened in the opening game at Copa America?

Join the debate or start one of your own. Post a comment on the app, send Iain an email (imacintosh@theathletic.com) or write a review on Apple!

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Mike Zimmermann

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

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Germany progress, Croatia and Albania have bun fight, Scotland survive... Jun 19, 2024

On today's Briefing - Germany are through, but the game of the day was Croatia's chaotic clash with Albania. One minute Croatia are going out, then Albania are going out, but by the end...are both of them going out?

Plus, Scotland finally turn up, Steve Cooper may be off to Leicester and who have Aston Villa nearly signed?

Join the debate or start one of your own. Post a comment on the app, send Iain an email (imacintosh@theathletic.com) or write a review on Apple!

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

Producer: Lucy Oliva

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Portugal snatch victory while Turkey and Georgia serve up a classic Jun 18, 2024

On today's Briefing - Portugal made hard work of a stubborn Czech Republic while Turkey and Georgia battled it out in the best game of the tournament so far. Plus: Who's got the easiest run-in next season? Hint: it rhymes with Canchester Mitty.

Join the debate or start one of your own. Post a comment on the app, send Iain an email (imacintosh@theathletic.com) or write a review on Apple!

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Slovakia stun Belgium! And Mbappe's nose gets banjaxed... Jun 17, 2024

On today's Briefing - Slovakia beat Belgium and they were well worth it too. Austria took the game to France, but were just edged out and Romania put three past Ukraine.

Also: Is it okay to support more than one club? We discuss this age-old anxiety. And you can too. Get involved by posting a comment on the app, sending Iain an email (imacintosh@theathletic.com) or writing a review on Apple!

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

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England open up with a win! Just... Jun 16, 2024

On today's Briefing - England edged past Serbia, but it wasn't a comfortable night. The Netherlands had to fight back from a goal down to beat Poland, while Denmark and Slovenia shared the spoils.

Also: Why can't Kylian Mbappe play at the Olympics?

You can get involved by posting a comment on the app, sending Iain an email (imacintosh@theathletic.com) or writing a review on Apple!

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

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Italy survive early scare to make a winning start Jun 15, 2024

On today's Briefing - It's a winning start for holders Italy, but that doesn't tell the whole story... Spain and Switzerland picked up three points too while in the Premier League, Brighton have a new manager.

You can get involved by posting a comment on the app, sending Iain an email (imacintosh@theathletic.com) or writing a review on Apple!

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

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Sub-optimal evening for Scotland Jun 14, 2024

On today's Briefing - Scotland are crushed 5-1 by Germany. The managerial merry-go-round continues to spin. Where's Roberto de Zerbi going? And who's joining Jose Mourinho in Turkey?

Plus - Who's the greatest bargain signing in the history of the Premier League?

You can get involved by posting a comment on the app, sending Iain an email (imacintosh@theathletic.com) or writing a review on Apple!

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

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Terzić departs Dortmund as Club World Cup backlash grows Jun 13, 2024

On today's Briefing - Borussia Dortmund part company with manager Edin Terzić after he asked the club "to terminate his contract with immediate effect". German football expert Seb Stafford-Bloor tells us trouble's been brewing despite their run to the Champions League final...

Meanwhile, the expanded Fifa Club World Cup continues to cause consternation, with legal action now on the cards. The Athletic's Matt Slater has the story.

Plus - Sam Kerr waterworks, a new Brazilian Iron and some spicy Serie A appointments...

You can get involved by posting a comment on the app, sending Iain an email (imacintosh@theathletic.com) or writing a review on Apple!

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Seb Stafford-Bloor & Matt Slater

Producer: Lucy Oliva

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Ten Hag retained, Ndombele dumped Jun 12, 2024

After news broke late on Tuesday night that Erik ten Hag will be staying at Manchester United, The Athletic's David Ornstein has the inside story on why they've ~perhaps unexpectedly~ decided to keep him at the helm.

Elsewhere, Tanguy Ndombele's miserable spell at Tottenham has come to an end as the club agreed to mutually terminate his contract. The View From The Lane host Danny Kelly reflects on the whole unedifying affair.

Plus - tonsillitis at the Euros, defensive worries and Foxes closing in on their new manager...

Why don't you get involved? Post a comment on the app, send Iain an email (imacintosh@theathletic.com) or write a review on Apple!

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: David Ornstein & Danny Kelly

Producer: Lucy Oliva

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Ten Hag to stay as Man Utd manager Jun 11, 2024

BREAKING: Erik Ten Hag will stay on as Man Utd manager! Also on today's Briefing, Dan Sheldon analyses whether - no matter what happens - Euro 2024 will be the end of the road for Gareth Southgate's spell in charge of England, while Seb Stafford-Bloor explains why Benjamin Sesko has snubbed Arsenal and the rest of the Premier League and decided to remain at RB Leipzig.

Let us know what you think. Post a comment on the app, send Iain an email (imacintosh@theathletic.com) or write a review on Apple.

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Dan Sheldon and Seb Stafford-Bloor

Producer: Ben Green

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Will Real Madrid play in the Club World Cup? Jun 10, 2024

Welcome to your all-new Daily Football Briefing. All summer long, Iain Macintosh will be here each and every day and in 10 minutes, he'll tell you everything you need to know about what's going on in the football universe, with the latest from the Euros and the Copa America, as well as analysis of all the day's transfer news, managerial moves and boardroom shenanigans. He won't be doing it by himself, of course. You'll hear from David Ornstein, Adam Crafton, Matt Slater and other expert voices from The Athletic's award-winning newsroom - and we want to hear from you too. Post a comment on the app, send Iain an email (imacintosh@theathletic.com) or write a review on Apple.

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Tomas Hill Lopez-Menchero

Producer: Ben Green

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Pochettino leaves Chelsea May 21, 2024

Liam Twomey joins a special episode of The Daily Football Briefing reacting to Chelsea and Mauricio Pochettino parting ways after only one season.

Host: Iain Macintosh

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Manchester City win Premier League, Jurgen Klopp says goodbye May 20, 2024

Manchester City make history with a 4th consecutive title. Sam Lee was at the Etihad for the historic celebrations.

Arsenal came close, but learned a lot. James McNicholas was at The Emirates.

Jurgen Klopp waves goodbye at a teary Anfield. James Pearce reflects on an emotional day in Liverpool.

And Seb Stafford-Bloor on Bayer Leverkusen’s unbeaten league season.

Host: Tim Spiers

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Ben Green

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Premier League title will be decided on Sunday May 17, 2024

The title race comes down to the final day. Sam Lee talks about the nerves of Man City. Art de Roche has one eye on Arsenal’s bigger picture.

It’s farewell to Klopp at Anfield. James Pearce on Klopp’s legacy.

And the WSL title will be decided on Saturday. Charlotte Harpur sets the scene.

Host: Tim Spiers

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Premier League to vote on scrapping VAR May 16, 2024

Premier League clubs to vote on scrapping VAR. David Ornstein has the seismic details.

Man United win as Ten Hag makes a promise. Carl Anka was at Old Trafford.

Liam Twomey reacts to Reece James’ eventful day for his Chelsea return.

Chelsea take a big step towards a remarkable WSL title win. Jessy Parker Humphreys sets the scene for the final day of the season.

Host: Michael Bailey

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Man City are one win away from history May 15, 2024

Man City on the brink of their fourth in a row. Sam Lee was at the tense 2-0 win against Spurs.

Fernandes set to stay at Old Trafford. David Ornstein has the details on the United captain.

George Caulkin on the importance of Newcastle finishing in a European spot.

Can Chelsea finish on a high? Liam Twomey sets the scene for the remaining two games of the season.

Host: Michael Bailey

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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All eyes on Spurs v City as Villa complete Liverpool comeback May 14, 2024

Adam Leventhal looks back on a dramatic night at Villa Park where two late goals from Jhon Duran kept Unai Emery's side in control of their Champions League destiny. Attention now turns to Tottenham v Man City. If City win, they go ahead of Arsenal heading into the final weekend. If Spurs get the three points, they're still in with a shout of overtaking Villa and clinching fourth spot - but doing so might just hand the Premier League title to their biggest rivals. We explore the moral quandary.

Presenter: Adam Leventhal

With: Jacob Tanswell and James Pearce

Producers: Michael Zimmerman and Ben Green

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Arsenal beat Man United to take the title race to the wire May 13, 2024

Iain Macintosh is here to kickstart your week, with news of Arsenal's victory at Old Trafford which will take the Premier League title race down to the wire. Plus, all the results from around Europe - including defeats for Dortmund and PSG - and Jessy Parker Humphreys tells us about the significance of Man United's first ever women's FA Cup win.

Presenter: Iain Macintosh

With: Seb Stafford Bloor and Jessy Parker Humphreys

Producer: Ben Green

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Bayer Leverkusen make history May 10, 2024

Bayer Leverkusen somehow keep their historic unbeaten run going. Seb Stafford-Bloor on why Leverkusen are the comeback kings.

It’s a Greek tragedy for Aston Villa. Jacob Tanswell reacts to Villa’s exit from the Europa Conference League.

And can Arsenal take the title race to the final weekend? James McNicholas has the Gunners perspective, Carl Anka with the Manchester United one.

Host: Tim Spiers

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Real Madrid shock Bayern late, advance to Champions League Final May 09, 2024

Real Madrid summon Champions League magic again. Dermot Corrigan was at the Santiago Bernabeu for a memorable night.

Bayern Munich collapse late. Seb Stafford-Bloor reacts to Bayern’s blown lead.

James Horncastle speculates whether Roma can replicate a European comeback.

And can Villa turn it around in Europe? Jacob Tanswell sets the scene.

Host: Mike Zimmermann

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Borussia Dortmund reach the Champions League Final May 08, 2024

Dortmund make the Champions League Final. Seb Stafford-Bloor reacts to the achievement and contemplates if Bayern Munich can make it an all-German final.

No dream end for Mbappe at PSG. Peter Rutzler was at the Parc des Princes for Mbappe’s last likely Champions League game for PSG.

Will it Real Madrid or Bayern Munich joining Dortmund? Guillermo Rai sets the scene.

Host: Adam Leventhal

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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New Humiliation For Man Utd May 07, 2024

An incredible night for Crystal Palace. Rather less for Manchester United… Carl Anka was at Selhurst Park for United’s embarrassing 4-0 loss to Palace.

Julien Lopetegui agrees terms with West Ham. David Ornstein has the latest.

And Everton aren’t out of trouble yet…

Host: Iain Macintosh

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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EPL title race goes down to the wire May 06, 2024

Can Chelsea qualify for Europe? Liam Twomey on what has changed with Chelsea as they make a push for the Europa Conference League.

Arsenal and Manchester City continue to push for the title as Tottenham continue to crumble. Jack Pitt-Brooke reacts to Spurs' 4-2 defeat to Liverpool.

Real Madrid are crowned, but not satisfied. Guillermo Rai explains why the La Liga champions are not celebrating too much.

And more twists and turns in the WSL title race. Jessy Parker Humphreys on what’s on the line as the season winds down.

Host: Mike Zimmermann

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Chelsea chase Europe as Champions League fades for Spurs May 03, 2024

Spurs’ Champions League hopes fade. Liam Twomey and Charlie Eccleshare were at Stamford Bridge for Chelsea’s 2-0 win.

Villa lose a thriller in Europe. Jacob Tanswell tells us what went wrong for Unai Emery’s side.

And can Liverpool lift the gloom ahead of Klopp’s farewell? Tom Williams explains.

Host: Tim Spiers

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Mbappe, PSG struggle against Dortmund May 02, 2024

Dortmund have the edge against PSG. Seb Stafford-Bloor talks about the many chances created by Dortmund. Peter Rutzler was in Germany to watch PSG hit the post multiple times.

Can Roma be the team to stop Bayer Leverkusen? James Horncastle is in Italy for the Europa League semifinal.

And Emma Hayes’ farewell trophy charge takes another hit. Jessy Parker Humphreys reacts to Chelsea’s wild 4-3 loss to Liverpool.

Host: Adam Leventhal

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Vinicius Jnr stars for Real at Bayern May 01, 2024

Vinicius Junior stars for Real at Bayern. Dermot Corrigan and Mark Carey react to an enthralling first leg in Munich.

Can Dortmund stop Mbappe tonight? Seb Stafford Bloor works out how they might. As Peter Rutzler wonders if PSG might feel any added pressure now it's the Champions League semi finals.

Plus Ipswich need a point to reach the Premier League, Manchester United make more boardroom changes, and Howard Webb says Forest should have had a penalty.

Host: Adam Leventhal

Producer: Mike Zimmermann and Abi Paterson

Exec Prod: Iain Macintosh

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Ornstein: Liverpool expect Salah to stay Apr 30, 2024

Salah is staying at Liverpool. David Ornstein has the exclusive. Join 'The Insiders' here

Familiar foes kick-off the Champions League semi-finals. Mark Carey gears us up for Bayern Munich v Real Madrid.

Premier League clubs say yes to a squad cost cap. Matt Slater explains the potential change in the way clubs fund their squads.

Host: Michael Bailey

Producers: Abi Paterson and Mike Zimmermann

Exec Prod: Iain Macintosh

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Title race intensifies as City & Arsenal (just...) win again Apr 29, 2024

Arsenal hang on to beat North London rivals Spurs. We hear reaction from Adrian Clarke and Charlie Eccleshare.

Manchester City are victorious too. Sam Lee was at the City Ground.

And who will Barcelona meet in the Women's Champions League Final? Jessy Parker Humphreys on the thrilling semifinals.

Host: Iain Macintosh

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Man City batter Brighton as Premier League title race narrows Apr 26, 2024

City win as the Premier League’s top two edge clear. Tim Spiers watched the three title contenders this week and gives his verdict.

Will the feel-good factor continue for Villa? Jacob Tanswell on Aston Villa’s chase for a top-four finish.

Plus, David Ornstein has the latest on Manchester United’s pursuit of Dan Ashworth.

And it’s Champions League crunch time for Emma Hayes. Sophie Penney previews the second legs of the Women’s Champions League semifinals.

Host: Michael Bailey

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Are Liverpool out of the title race? Apr 25, 2024

Liverpool lose the derby and their title hopes? Paddy Boyland was on hand to watch Everton win their first home Merseyside derby since 2010. As James Pearce explains what went wrong for Liverpool - and where they're at with their manager search.

Plus, which manager has decided to stay? Pol Ballus has the details.

Host: Michael Bailey

Producers: Abi Paterson and Mike Zimmermann

Exec Prod: Iain Macintosh

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Chelsea humiliated by Arsenal Apr 24, 2024

Arsenal smash five past Chelsea and go three clear at the top of the Premier League. Art de Roche and Liam Twomey watched the demolition unfold at the Emirates.

Liverpool look to Feyenoord's head coach Arne Slot as Jurgen Klopp's successor. James Pearce has the story.

While Aston Villa look to create a dynasty as Unai Emery signs on for more. David Ornstein broke the news.

Host: Adam Leventhal

Producer: Mike Zimmermann and Abi Paterson

Exec Prod: Iain Macintosh

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Ambitious West Ham speak to Amorim Apr 22, 2024

West Ham speak to Sporting Lisbon manager Ruben Amorim. David Ornstein broke the story.

Inter seal their 20th Scudetto, beating city rivals Milan in the process. James Horncastle is in Milan for to watch history take place.

The FA investigate that Nottingham Forest social media post. Nnamdi Onyeagwara brings us up to date on the many statements.

Can Chelsea trip up title hopefuls Arsenal? Amy Lawrence and Liam Twomey preview tonight's London derby.

Host: Michael Bailey

Producers: Abi Paterson and Mike Zimmermann

Exec Prod: Iain Macintosh

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Man United Survive Wembley Scare Apr 22, 2024

Manchester United are on to the FA Cup final after surviving a scare. Mark Critchley was at Wembley.

Plenty of drama between Everton and Nottingham Forest. Paddy Boyland reacts to 3 huge points for the Toffees. Meanwhile Tim Spiers makes sense of Forest’s public statement.

And, late goals in El Clasico. Dermot Corrigan explains the different directions of Real Madrid and Barcelona.

Host: Mike Zimmermann

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Klopp's European journey at Liverpool is over Apr 19, 2024

Liverpool win in Italy but bow out of Europe. Andy Jones was in Bergamo for the end of Klopp’s European journey with Liverpool.

Can Chelsea shock City in the Cup? Adrian Clarke, Charlie Eccleshare and Duncan Alexander think Chelsea have the right pieces.

And tired Real Madrid prepare for El Clasico. Guillermo Rai on how Real Madrid will approach playing Barcelona.

Host: Tim Spiers

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Real Madrid end Man City's double-treble dreams Apr 18, 2024

The double-treble dream is over for City, as Real Madrid win on penalties. Guillermo Rai and Sam Lee analyse the modern Clasico at the Etihad.

Arsenal bow out to Bayern. Raphael Honigstein and James McNicholas were at the Allianz to watch a tight match end in the Germans' favour.

Can Liverpool regain some much needed momentum? Simon Hughes looks at how the Reds might go about turning things around in Bergamo against Atalanta.

Host: Michael Bailey

Producers: Abi Paterson and Mike Zimmermann

Exec Prod: Iain Macintosh

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Mbappe dumps Barcelona out of Europe Apr 17, 2024

Paris knock Barcelona out of the Champions League. Peter Rutzler and Pol Ballus were at the Estadi Olímpic for all the drama.

Dortmund outperform Atletico to progress. Seb Stafford-Bloor on Dortmund’s thrilling comeback.

Plus, why Arsenal have a left back problem. James McNicholas tells us the best way to approach defending Leroy Sane tonight.

And have Real Madrid learned from their heavy defeat to City last season? Alvaro Romeo answered that question.

Host: Abi Paterson

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Palmer stars as Chelsea hit Everton for six Apr 16, 2024

Palmer hits four and Chelsea smash six. Simon Johnson was on hand to watch the latest star showing by the Chelsea forward - even if there were some penalty antics again from the Blues' players.

Everton officially appeal that second points deduction. Jacob Whitehead brings us up to date on the latest surrounding the Toffees' precarious situation.

Could Xavi stay on at Barca? Dermot Corrigan has the answer ahead of their Champions League tie with PSG.

Can Dortmund turn it around against Atleti? Seb Stafford Bloor predicts it'll be hard for the German side to make it to the semi-finals.

Host: Michael Bailey

Producers: Abi Paterson and Mike Zimmermann

Exec Prod: Iain Macintosh

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Arsenal and Liverpool lose, handing Manchester City a title boost Apr 15, 2024

Arsenal are haunted by Villa and Emery again. James McNicholas was at the Emirates for Arsenal’s 2-0 defeat to Aston Villa.

Jurgen Klopp's victorious send off took a big hit. James Pearce reacts to a devastating 1-0 loss for Liverpool.

And, celebrations in Leverkusen. Seb Stafford-Bloor was amongst the sea of fans and celebrations as Bayer Leverkusen win their first ever Bundesliga title.

Host: Mike Zimmermann

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Ben Green

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Liverpool stunned at Anfield by Atalanta Apr 12, 2024

Liverpool stunned by Atalanta. James Pearce was at Anfield and reacts to how this loss can impact Liverpool’s season.

Villa warm up for Arsenal trip with another European win. Jacob Tanswell was on hand for Aston Villa’s Europa Conference League win.

And what changes are coming to the Premier League next year? Matt Slater has all the details.

Host: Tim Spiers

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Barcelona edge five-goal thriller in Paris Apr 11, 2024

Advantage La Liga as Barca beat Paris. Lara Cervello Herrero and Peter Rutzler were at the Parc des Princes for Barcelona’s 3-2 win over PSG.

Atletico hang on to defeat Dortmund. Dermot Corrigan thinks the advantage will stay with Atleti in the second leg. Seb Stafford-Bloor on Dortmund’s frustrating performance.

Plus a surprise as Lionesses star retires. Michael Cox on why he thinks Rachel Daly has retired from the national team.

Host: Abi Paterson

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Chaos and controversy in Champions League quarter-finals Apr 10, 2024

It’s goals galore in Europe as Arsenal and City play out entertaining draws. Sam Lee was at the Santiago Bernabeu for a chaotic thriller. Art de Roche was at the Emirates for a night full of controversial referee decisions.

Can PSG make the Champions League final? James Horncastle and Peter Rutzler think there’s a good possibility.

And, Dermot Corrigan gets us ready for Atletico Madrid vs. Borussia Dortmund.

Host: Abi Paterson

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Everton hit out at more points deductions Apr 09, 2024

Everton react to another points deduction. Paddy Boyland reacts to the news.

The Champions League quarter-finals are here! Can Arsenal best Bayern? Adrian Clarke and Rafa Honigstein both agree that the tie is in the Gunners' favour

Can Madrid stop City? Michael Cox tells us what to expect from this tie.

The Lionesses look to get back to winning ways. Charlotte Harpur previews England's trip to Ireland for the Euro 2025 qualifiers.

Host: Michael Bailey

Producers: Abi Paterson and Mike Zimmermann

Exec Prod: Iain Macintosh

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Liverpool frustrated by Man United Apr 08, 2024

Liverpool slip up in the title race. James Pearce talks about how costly the draw against Manchester United could be.

While Manchester United gladly take a point off their rivals. Carl Anka was at Old Trafford.

Plus, plenty of action across Europe: Dermot Corrigan was in Seville for Athletic Club’s Copa del Rey final win, and James Horncastle talks about Roma’s Derby della Capitale win against Lazio.

Host: Mike Zimmermann

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Palmer's hat-trick ignites Chelsea's chaotic comeback Apr 05, 2024

Chelsea win a thriller at the Bridge. Liam Twomey reacts to an incredible comeback for the Blues.

The Manchester United rollercoaster continues. Carl Anka was in attendance for United’s disappointing finish.

And Liverpool return to the top of the table. James Pearce recaps a nervy night, eased by Alexis Mac Allister.

Host: Tim Spiers

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Ben Green

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Three-scoring Foden fires up City Apr 04, 2024

Foden fires up City. Sam Lee was at the Etihad for the Phil Foden Show.

Are Spurs for sale? Charlie Eccleshare dives into Tottenham's accounts.

Is Chelsea against Man United still a big game? Oli Kay mulls on the state of both these big clubs.

Host: Michael Bailey

Producers: Abi Paterson and Mike Zimmermann

Exec Prod: Ben Green

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Will Haaland’s form cost Man City? Apr 03, 2024

Will Haaland’s form cost Man City? Nick Miller has been mulling over the Norwegian's form.

Can Arsenal afford to rotate? Amy Lawrence debates whether Arteta will switch things up against Luton.

Who were the big winners in Tuesday's Premier League action? Charlie Eccleshare and Paddy Boyland reflect on differing nights for Spurs and Everton.

Host: Mike Zimmermann

Producer: Abi Paterson

Executive Producer: Ben Green

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Man United approach ex-Man City man as club rebuild continues Apr 02, 2024

Southampton dig in as Man United make Wilcox approach. Dan Sheldon has the story on United's latest target.

Why have Newcastle had so many injuries? Chris Waugh has been assessing the situation.

The battle to rejoin the Premier League is heating up. Leicester, Ipswich, and Leeds continue to push each other.

Host: Michael Bailey

Producers: Abi Paterson and Mike Zimmermann

Exec Prod: Ben Green

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Liverpool top Premier League after comeback win Apr 01, 2024

Arsenal and Man City play to a goalless draw. James McNicholas and Sam Lee were at the Etihad.

Liverpool move into first. James Pearce was at Anfield for the entertaining comeback.

Dortmund beat Bayern. Seb Stafford-Bloor reacts to Bayern's loss.

And, Arsenal are Conti Cup champions. Jessy Parker Humphreys on the late winner and dust up between the managers.

Host: Mike Zimmermann

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Ben Green

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Arsenal and Manchester City prepare for a title clash Mar 29, 2024

Can this Arsenal side challenge City? Charlie Eccleshare on the huge test for the Gunners.

Which player could decide the outcome on Sunday? Jon Mackenzie thinks one player in particular will have a big impact.

And Der Klassiker - but not as we know it. Seb Stafford-Bloor tells us what’s at stake between Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund.

Host: Tim Spiers

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Ben Green

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How can Arsenal beat Manchester City? Mar 28, 2024

We’re gearing up for the return of the Premier League. James McNicholas on Arsenal’s chance against Manchester City.

Former England captain Steph Houghton retires. Jessy Parker Humphreys reflects on Houghton’s legacy.

And who is the “nobody” who tried to buy Manchester United and Inter Milan? Adam Crafton has the fascinating story.

Host: Abi Paterson

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Bellingham salvages draw with Belgium Mar 27, 2024

The line up for Euro 2024 is complete. Jordan Campbell was in Poland for Ukraine’s emotional qualification.

Bellingham salvages a draw with Belgium. Jay Harris thinks Ivan Toney has solidified his role as Harry Kane’s back-up. Mark Carey thinks Kobbie Mainoo may start for England at Euro 2024.

And watch out for Spain’s young guns. Pol Ballus was at the Santiago Bernabeu where Lamine Yamal shined.

Plus, Charlotte Harpur gets you ready for the UWCL quarterfinals second legs.

Host: Abi Paterson

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Leicester are in trouble, but how much? Mar 26, 2024

Who will be snapping up those last places in the European Championships? Tom Williams makes the case for Wales

How much trouble are Leicester City in? Matt Slater explains all

How did Amanda Stavely’s day in court go? Tom Burrows was in court to watch

Host: Iain Macintosh

Producers: Abi Paterson and Mike Zimmermann

Exec Prod: Iain Macintosh

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England struggle without Kane against Brazil Mar 25, 2024

How are England coping without Kane? Jack Pitt-Brooke was at Wembley and witnessed first-hand the issues for England.

Are Germany back to their best? Seb Stafford-Bloor on the German’s improvement under Nagelsmann.

And, fireworks in the WSL. Jessy Parker Humphreys catches you up on the title race.

Host: Mike Zimmermann

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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When will Xabi Alonso make a decision? Mar 22, 2024

What does the future hold for Gareth Southgate? Jack Pitt-Brooke tells us the timeline of a decision.

Why have Bayern gone public about chasing Alonso? Raphael Honigstein has the latest info.

And who’s going to qualify for the Euros?

Host: Tim Spiers

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Why Liverpool's new sporting director needs to hit the ground running Mar 21, 2024

Will Harry Kane be fit enough to start for England? Jack Pitt-Brooke has the latest on Kane’s injury.

Why Liverpool's new sporting director needs to hit the ground running? James Peace on Richard Hughes’ first orders of business in charge.

And is it okay to not play for your country? Amy Lawrence thinks it’s important for players to have appropriate rest.

Host: Abi Paterson

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Ben Green

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Man United's Mainoo makes England squad Mar 20, 2024

Man U’s Mainoo makes England’s senior squad. Carl Anka profiles the "preposterous" player.

The Premier League heads Down Under. Jacob Whitehead looks at why teams are heading to Australia.

Why you should care about English football’s latest development. Matt Slater runs through what an independence regulator actually means for football.

Host: Michael Bailey

Producers: Abi Paterson and Mike Zimmermann

Exec Prod: Iain Macintosh

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Forest deducted four points Mar 19, 2024

Nottingham Forest deducted four points for spending breach. Phil Buckingham has the details of the case and Paul Taylor brings Forest's furious reaction.

Why isn’t Ben White in the England squad? James McNicholas tells us more about the Arsenal right back.

Chelsea look to Champions League quest. Jessy Parker Humphreys previews the Blues game against Ajax.

Host: Michael Bailey

Producers: Abi Paterson and Michael Zimmermann

Exec Prod: Iain Macintosh

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Old Trafford Epic: What Now For Liverpool? Mar 18, 2024

Manchester United are on their way to Wembley. Dan Sheldon and James Pearce were at Old Trafford for the late comeback.

As are Chelsea…but only just… Liam Twomey highlights more drama between the fans, Raheem Sterling and Pochettino.

And how’s Barcelona’s recovery looking? Dermot Corrigan was in Madrid to watch Barca’s 3-0 win against Atletico.

Host: Iain Macintosh

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Dominant Liverpool prepare for Man United in style Mar 15, 2024

Dominant Liverpool prepare for Old Trafford in style. James Pearce and Mark Critchley set us up for an FA Cup quarter final for the ages.

Could Newcastle really upset the FA Cup holders? Chris Waugh wonders whether the Magpies can topple Man City.

Villa beat Ajax but suffer Watkins injury scare. Tim Spiers was on hand to watch.

Chelsea host Arsenal in WSL title tussle at Stamford Bridge. Jessy Parker Humphreys previews what should be an epic game.

Host: Michael Bailey

Producers: Abi Paterson and Michael Zimmermann

Exec Prod: Iain Macintosh

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Inter crash out of the Champions League Mar 14, 2024

Inter exit the Champions League. James Horncastle on the disappointment from the Serie A leaders.

Sancho helps Dortmund progress. Seb Stafford-Bloor sees Sancho playing with more freedom and creativity.

And why are the Premier League playing Deal or No Deal with the EFL? Matt Slater has the details on the failed funding package.

Host: Abi Paterson

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Arsenal advance to the Champions League quarterfinals Mar 13, 2024

Arsenal pushed to penalties by Porto. James McNicholas reacts to a wild night at the Emirates, after Arsenal advance to the Champions League quarterfinals.

Barca eliminate Napoli. Dermot Corrigan on the youngsters carrying Barcelona through the competition.

And, who will join them? James Horncastle gives his expectations on tonight’s Inter v Atletico game.

Host: Abi Paterson

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Palmer keeps Chelsea's faint European hopes alive Mar 12, 2024

Chelsea keep their faint European hopes alive. Simon Johnson was at Stamford Bridge to watch the Cole Palmer show.

Do Arsenal have what it takes to fight back against Porto? Amy Lawrence muses on the importance of this fixture for Arsenal's season.

Just how bad would a Champions League exit be for Barcelona? Alvaro Romeo speaks to James Richardson about the significance of this fixture against Napoli.

Host: Tim Spiers

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Exec Prod: Iain Macintosh

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Liverpool and City make way for Arsenal in the title race Mar 11, 2024

Liverpool and City make the title race even tighter. James Pearce and Sam Lee were at Anfield for the last PL meeting between Jurgen Klopp and Pep Guardiola.

What has the coaching rivalry meant to English football?

And, is this the last straw for Mauricio Pochettino at Chelsea? Liam Twomey looks ahead to Chelsea’s crucial game against Newcastle tonight.

Host: Mike Zimmermann

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Liverpool face City in potential title decider Mar 08, 2024

It’s all eyes on Anfield for a potential title decider as Klopp takes on Pep for one last time in the Premier League. Michael Cox previews this one.

Will a change in keeper upset Arsenal’s rhythm? David Raya can't play against his parent club, Brentford, so James McNicholas analyses the impact that may have.

Plus all the action from the Europa and Conference Leagues too

Host: Tim Spiers

Producer: Mike Zimmermann and Abi Paterson

Executive Producer: Ben Green

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City dominate as lucky Real progress in Champions League Mar 07, 2024

Man City’s European dominance continues. Sam Lee was at the Etihad to watch a much changed City continue their Champions League defence.

Real Madrid make unconvincing progress. Guillermo Rai brings his take on an unspectacular show from Los Blancos.

How will Liverpool negotiate their date in Prague? It's bad timing for Klopp's kids with City at the weekend but, as James Pearce tells us, key players are on the way back.

Host: Michael Bailey

Producers: Abi Paterson and Michael Zimmermann

Exec Prod: Ben Green

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Kane sends Bayern to the Champions League quarterfinals Mar 06, 2024

Kane keeps Bayern in Europe. Seb Stafford-Bloor reflects on Bayern Munich’s 3-0 win against Lazio to progress them to the quarterfinals of the Champions League.

Mbappe gives another masterclass. Peter Rutzler talks about Kylan Mbappe carrying PSG to the UCL quarterfinals.

Plus Haaland answers those contract rumours. Sam Lee on whether Manchester City fans should be worried.

And, Real Madrid chase their 15th Champions League trophy. Guillermo Rai is at the Santiago Bernabéu.

Host: Abi Paterson

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Ben Green

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Arsenal hit six past sorry Sheffield United Mar 05, 2024

Arsenal continue their rampant form. James McNicholas was at Brammal Lane for the Gunners’ 6-0 win.

Bayern need to turn it around in the Champions League. Seb Stafford-Bloor describes the mood around Munich.

And why is Mbappe not playing so much football anymore? Peter Rutzler explains Luis Enrique’s reasoning.

Host: Abi Paterson

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Ben Green

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Foden shines as City beat United in the derby Mar 04, 2024

Manchester stays Blue as Foden shines for City. Sam Lee on Foden being the big game player for City this season.

United feeling blue as they lose ground on the Champions League places. Laurie Whitwell on the crucial race for the top 4.

And why did Real Madrid see red in Valencia? Mario Cortegana explains the latest refereeing drama in Spain.

Host: Michael Bailey

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Pogba banned from football for four years Mar 01, 2024

Is Paul Pogba’s career over? James Horncastle tells us what’s next for the Juventus midfielder.

Do United have a prayer in the Manchester derby? Mark Critchley previews the cross-town matchup.

And what’s got Ronaldo riled in Saudi Arabia? Nick Miller explains Ronaldo’s suspension.

Host: Tim Spiers

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Arch-rivals Liverpool and Man United set up FA Cup showdown Feb 29, 2024

Liverpool and Manchester United book an FA Cup showdown. Carl Anka watched United scrape through against Forest while James Pearce saw Klopp's kids prove they are more than alright. James also brings us up to speed on Liverpool's search for a Sporting Director.

Chelsea made life difficult for themselves against Leeds.

We tell you why Taylor Swift is causing Real Madrid to move their final match of the season.

Host: Michael Bailey

Producers: Abi Paterson and Michael Zimmermann

Exec Prod: Iain MacIntosh

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Pressure eases on Howe as Newcastle edge through Feb 28, 2024

Newcastle squeak through to the FA Cup Quarter Finals. Chris Waugh reflects on a match that saw the Premier League side struggle against Championship opposition.

Jack Grealish limped off as Erling Haaland scored five. Sam Lee watched Manchester City cruise past Luton.

Pochettino fights back at stumbling Chelsea. Ahead of their match against Leeds, Liam Twomey analyses the Chelsea manager's epic answer in their pre match press conference.

Host: Michael Bailey

Producers: Abi Paterson and Michael Zimmermann

Exec Prod: Iain MacIntosh

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Everton’s points penalty reduced Feb 27, 2024

Everton’s points penalty is reduced. David Ornstein on why it was decided to reduce the penalty but also what still lies in store for the Toffees and Nottingham Forest.

Newcastle look to turn the tide as they face Blackburn in the FA Cup. Chris Waugh previews the tie.

Real Madrid close in on another Galactico. Rafael Honigstein has the story on Alfonso Davies' proposed move.

Host: Tim Spiers

Producers: Abi Paterson and Mike Zimmermann

Exec Prod: Iain Macintosh

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Liverpool win the Carabao Cup Feb 26, 2024

Liverpool win the League Cup. James Pearce reacts to Jurgen Klopp’s youth movement in the biggest game of the season so far.

Another Wembley defeat for Chelsea. Liam Twomey thinks Pochettino’s side showed mental weakness on Sunday.

And how did Manchester United lose to Fulham at home? Carl Anka was at Old Trafford.

Host: Tim Spiers

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Liverpool and Chelsea prepare for the Carabao Cup final Feb 23, 2024

Liverpool and Chelsea face off at Wembley. James Pearce and Liam Twomey give their insight leading up to the Carabao Cup final.

A grudge match for Arsenal. Amy Lawrence thinks Arsenal is looking for revenge.

And can Bayern Munich win a football match? Seb Stafford-Bloor on the struggles of Bayern.

Host: Tim Spiers

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Liverpool fight back to crush Luton Feb 22, 2024

Liverpool survive a Luton scare to go clear. Caoimhe O'Neill was at Anfield to watch the drama unfold.

A late Champions League blow for Arsenal. James McNicholas saw Arsenal succumb to a last minute winner in Porto.

Napoli begin life under their third coach of the season. James Horncastle assesses the size of the task in front of Francesco Calzona despite their draw with Barcelona.

Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s vision for Manchester United. Adam Crafton reports back on what Ratcliffe had to say with some of it causing a stir.

Thomas Tuchel will leave Bayern Munich at the end of the season. Raphael Honigstein discusses whether Xabi Alonso may be tempted by a move to Munich.

Host: Adam Leventhal

Producers: Abi Paterson and Mike Zimmermann

Exec Prod: Iain Macintosh

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Sir Jim Ratcliffe's takeover at Manchester United is official Feb 21, 2024

Sir Jim Ratcliffe is finally in at Man Utd. Laurie Whitwell on what this means for the club moving forward.

Arsenal take their buzz into the Champions League. James McNicolas is in Porto and previews Arsenal’s Round of 16 tie.

And La Liga tightens its financial screw on Barcelona. Pol Ballus has the latest on Barca’s financial troubles.

Host: Michael Bailey

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Roy Hodgson steps down at Crystal Palace Feb 20, 2024

It’s standoff time as Ashworth goes on gardening leave. Laurie Whitwell and Chris Waugh have the latest on the future of Newcastle’s sporting director.

Glasner appointed as Hodgson says bye to Crystal Palace. Matt Woosnam reacts to the news.

And it’s a third manager of the season for the Italian champions. James Horncastle on Napoli’s struggles.

Host: Michael Bailey

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Bayern suffer their third consecutive loss Feb 19, 2024

Is Thomas Tuchel on his way out at Bayern? Raphael Honigstein has the latest on the German manager.

The Premier League title race takes another turn. Sam Lee and Simon Johnson react to the 1-1 draw between Manchester City and Chelsea.

And, are PSG already phasing out Mbappe? Peter Rutzler on the future of the French star after being left out of the starting XI on Saturday.

Host: Mike Zimmermann

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Kylian Mbappe set to leave Paris Saint Germain Feb 16, 2024

Kylian Mbappe is leaving PSG. Peter Rutzler on the impact this will have.

How will PSG cope without him? David Ornstein thinks they will have a long list of replacements.

And is he destined for Real Madrid? Mario Cortegana has the latest between Mbappe and Madrid.

Plus, Chelsea and Manchester City men and women’s teams face off this weekend: Liam Twomey describes Chelsea’s ups and downs against the top teams in the Premier League. And Charlotte Harpur previews the huge clash in the WSL.

Host: Tim Spiers

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Kane’s quest for silverware hits another snag Feb 15, 2024

Kane’s quest for silverware hits another snag as Bayern fall to defeat against Lazio. Rafael Honigstein was in Rome watching it all unfold.

Kylian Mbappe leads PSG to victory over Real Sociedad. Peter Rutzler tells us all about the brilliant night for the Frenchman.

Chelsea want Lyon’s manager to replace Emma Hayes. Charlotte Harpur broke the story and brings the details.

Host: Tim Spiers

Producers: Abi Paterson and Mike Zimmermann

Exec Prod: Iain Macintosh

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Man Utd target Newcastle's sporting director Feb 14, 2024

Man United look to poach Newcastle’s Dan Ashworth. David Ornstein has the story as Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS look to rebuild United.

Man City survive a brief scare in Scandinavia as Real Madrid edge Leipzig. Sam Lee was in Copenhagen as City's title defence continues and Mario Cortegana was in Germany.

Can Bayern really find their consolation in the Champions League? Mark Carey runs the rule over tonight's Champions League fixtures.

Host: Michael Bailey

Producer: Mike Zimmermann and Abi Paterson

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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The Champions League returns: why this year could spring a surprise Feb 13, 2024

Chelsea leave it late at Selhurst Park. Simon Johnson was on hand to watch the Blues fight back against Crystal Palace and move up to tenth.

The Champions League returns. Which games should you be excited about and who are the favourites? Michael Cox previews the round of 16.

Is it now or never for Mbappe to Real Madrid? Mario Cortegana has the latest on the French striker's saga.

Host: Michael Bailey

Producer: Mike Zimmermann and Abi Paterson

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Arsenal score six in Rice's return to West Ham Feb 12, 2024

Arsenal hit six and Man United hit form. Laurie Whitwell tells us if the race is on for Champions League qualification.

Bayer put Bayern in their Bundesliga place. Seb Stafford-Bloor raves about Leverkusen’s performance.

And Ivory Coast are AFCON champions. Jay Harris is in Abidjan for the celebrations.

Host: Michael Bailey

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Are Manchester United's Champions League hopes alive? Feb 09, 2024

Title showdown in La Liga. Pol Ballus on the atmosphere leading up to the crucial game in Spain between Real Madrid and Girona.

Are Manchester United in a Champions League race? Mark Critchley and Joey D’Urso on the top 4 race between Aston Villa and United.

A blockbuster weekend in Serie A. James Horncastle previews the key matchups in Italy.

And two heavyweights battle for AFCON supremacy. Jay Harris ahead of Nigeria vs. Ivory Coast.

Host: Tim Spiers

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Chelsea repay Poch's trust Feb 08, 2024

Chelsea romped to a 3-1 victory away at Villa Park in the FA Cup and repay Pochettino’s trust in his team. It was the performance of the season, says Simon Johnson. Read about it all here.

It’s Nigeria against Ivory Coast - take two - at AFCON. Jay Harris breaks down how both teams got to the Final.

Bayern Munich travel to Bayer Leverkeusen this weekend, Seb Stafford Bloor begins the Bundesliga build up.

Host: Michael Bailey

Producers: Abi Paterson and Mike Zimmermann

Exec Pros: Iain Macintosh

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Is Project Poch under pressure? Feb 07, 2024

Poch on pressure at Chelsea. As rumours swirl around the Chelsea boss' time at the club, Liam Twomey tells us what the man himself had to say on it all. Read about it all here.

AFCON readies itself for the semi finals. Maher Mezahi previews the games.

VAR controversy ahead of pivotal match in Spain's title race. Dermot Corrigan brings us up to date ahead of Real Madrid v Girona this weekend.

Host: Adam Leventhal

Producers: Abi Paterson and Mike Zimmermann

Exec Prod: Ben Green

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Ominous City close in on Liverpool Feb 06, 2024

It’s ominous from Man City; the title is back in their own hands. Michael Cox was at the Gtech Community Stadium to watch City come back from behind to beat Brentford. Read his thoughts here

Who’s on Barcelona’s shortlist to replace Xavi? Dermot Corrigan mulls over the Catalan club's options.

It’s getting messy for Messi-less Miami. Paul Tenorio is following Inter Miami around the globe. Read more about it here

Host: Michael Bailey

Producers: Abi Paterson and Mike Stavrou

Exec Prods: Ben Green and Iain Macintosh

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Arsenal secure crucial win over Liverpool Feb 05, 2024

Amy Lawrence tells us about the significance of Arsenal's 3-1 victory over Liverpool, while James Pearce analyses an error-strewn and lacklustre performance by the Reds.

Carl Anka reports from Old Trafford where Manchester United put in their best performance of the season in beating West Ham 3-0. Have Erik ten Hag's side turned a corner...again?

And Matt Davies Adams, host of our Straight Outta Cobham podcast, says the locals are growing restless after Chelsea's woeful 4-2 defeat at home to Wolves.

Host: Tim Spiers

Producer: Ben Green

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Transfer Deadline Day wrapped with David Ornstein Feb 02, 2024

The transfer window… softly shuts. David Ornstein runs through the key deadline day deals

Man United survive a late scare from Wolves. Laurie Whitwell was at Molineux to watch Marcus Rashford return to the starting XI and Kobbie Mainoo steal the headlines.

Weekend previews including Amy Lawrence on why Arsenal v Liverpool is so integral to the Gunners' season and James Horncastle on the bitterest derby in Italy.

Podcasts to listen to: Talk of the Devils, The Athletic Football Podcast, The Totally Football Show

Host and Producer: Abi Paterson

Executive Producer: Ben Green

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Liverpool run riot at Anfield Feb 01, 2024

Liverpool run riot at Anfield and maintain their five point lead at the top of the Premier League. James Pearce watched young Conor Bradley make history in a good way and Darwin Nunez in a less than ideal manner. Read about the match here.

Spurs into the top four after a feisty win over Brentford. There were darts celebrations all over the place and Charlie Eccleshare was across it all. Get the match analysis here.

Rashford returns for United. Erik ten Hag has declared the Rashford situation as "case closed" and Dan Sheldon is on hand to explain why this one is different to Sancho's. The full story is here.

Host: Tim Spiers

Producers: Mike Zimmermann and Abi Paterson

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Arsenal move back into second Jan 31, 2024

The Premier League returns. James McNicholas saw Arsenal move back into second in the table with a win over Forest. While George Caulkin was on hand for Newcastle's second away win of the season, at Villa Park. Read about Arsenal here and Newcastle here

As Liverpool welcome Chelsea to Anfield. Liam Twomey previews what is sure to be an emotive match.

The Transfer window nears it’s climax. David Ornstein has his one to watch. You can join The Insiders group here and read David's story about Michael Edwards here

Host: Adam Leventhal

Producers: Abi Paterson and Mike Zimmermann

Exec Prod: Ben Green

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Ornstein’s transfer guide Jan 30, 2024

As deadline day on the January transfer window looms, David Ornstein has the top five stories you need to know. Join The Insiders WhatsApp group here.

The AFCON hosts trump the holders. Shock as previously unbeaten Senegal lose in penalty shootout to Ivory Coast. Jay Harris watched it happen.

Mikel Arteta is going nowhere. James McNicholas reacts to the good news for Arsenal fans and previews the Gunners' game against Nottingham Forest.

Host: Adam Leventhal

Producer: Mike Zimmermann and Abi Paterson

Executive Producer: Ben Green

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Who will replace Jurgen Klopp? Jan 29, 2024

Who are the contenders to replace Klopp at Liverpool? James Pearce lists the qualities Liverpool will be wanting in a new manager.

Why is Xavi leaving Barcelona? Laia Cervello on the Barca legend leaving after the season.

Why was Rashford left out of United’s squad? Dan Sheldon has the details.

Host: Tim Spiers

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Ben Green

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Klopp to leave Liverpool Jan 26, 2024

Liverpool have announced that Jurgen Klopp is stepping down as manager at the end of the season.

After a hugely successful eight and a half years at the club, Klopp will take a sabbatical.

So what next for him, and what next for Liverpool?

The Athletic's Liverpool correspondent James Pearce reacts to this seismic news.

Host: Iain Macintosh

Producer: Mike Stavrou

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Spurs look to spoil silverware for City Jan 26, 2024

Spurs look to spoil silverware for City. The FA Cup fourth round is underway and Jack Pitt Brooke previews the big match at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

Chelsea strengthen up top. Charlotte Harpur has the details on two very exciting stories that are sure to relieve Chelsea women fans.

Plus we have the key fixtures this weekend.

Host: Mike Zimmermann

Producer: Abi Paterson

Exec Prod: Iain Macintosh

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Liverpool set up another Cup final against Chelsea Jan 25, 2024

Liverpool face Chelsea at Wembley again. James Pearce watched the Reds get through to the League Cup final.

Barcelona crash out of the Copa del Rey. Laia Cervello reacts to yet another defeat for Xavi's men.

AFCON hosts Ivory Coast through to knockout stages but sack their manager mid tournament. Jay Harris has the details.

Host: Adam Leventhal

Producer: Mike Zimmermann and Abi Paterson

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Kalvin Phillips set to leave Man City Jan 24, 2024

The January window hots up in the Premier League with three internationals potentially on the move. David Ornstein has the latest rumours and transfers.

Plus, Sam Lee on why Kalvin Phillips didn’t work out at City.

Chelsea are on their way to a cup final. Liam Twomey was at Stamford Bridge for the semifinal.

But will Liverpool follow? James Pearce on how Liverpool’s squad are ready for Fulham.

Host: Tim Spiers

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Salah injury 'more serious than first thought' Jan 23, 2024

Is Benzema set to follow Henderson out of Saudi Arabia? Guillermo Rai has the details on the transfer window's most surprising story of the day.

Confusion over Mo Salah’s injury. Simon Hughes is at the Africa Cup of Nations and has the latest on the Liverpool forward's status.

Chelsea prepare for their biggest game of the season. Liam Twomey previews the Blues semi final second leg against Championship side Middlesbrough.

Host: Tim Spiers

Producer: Mike Zimmermann and Abi Paterson

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Manchester United appoint City's Berrada as new CEO Jan 22, 2024

Manchester coup as City CEO leaves… for United. David Ornstein broke the news of Manchester United’s new CEO appointment.

Injured Salah is heading back to Liverpool.

VAR controversy in Spain. Guillermo Rai explains why Almeria think Real Madrid “stole” 3 points.

And Newcastle dig in over in-demand duo. Chris Waugh has the latest on bids for Kieran Trippier and Callum Wilson.

Host: Michael Bailey

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Mo Salah off injured in AFCON Jan 19, 2024

Salah limps off at AFCON. Simon Hughes was there with the details.

Gerrard signs on for more Saudi. David Ornstein broke the news, and what the extension means for the Saudi Pro League.

And Toney's ready to play again. Jay Harris has the story on what Ivan Toney was doing during his ban and what to expect in his return.

Host: Abi Paterson

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Ben Green

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Jordan Henderson set for Ajax switch Jan 18, 2024

Jordan Henderson set for Ajax switch and Armando Broja could leave Chelsea. David Ornstein clarifies the truth around the latest January transfer rumours.

Simon Hughes previews the big AFCON clash between hosts Ivory Coast and Nigeria.

Plus we run through all the score lines you need to know from Wednesday night.

Host: Michael Bailey

Producer: Abi Paterson and Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Jose Mourinho in tears after Roma sacking Jan 17, 2024

Jose Mourinho’s Roma exit. James Horncastle explains why it all went wrong.

Joelinton’s Newcastle blow. Chris Waugh talks about potential transfer replacements.

And Sarina Wiegman’s new deal. Charlotte Harpur on what this means for the future of the Lionesses.

Host: Adam Leventhal

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Are more Premier League teams facing points deductions? Jan 16, 2024

Nottingham Forest and Everton react to breaching Premier League sustainability rules. Matt Slater on the fallout.

Could Chelsea really tempt Karim Benzema to the Premier League? David Ornstein has the latest info.

There were winning starts for Son and Mane, as they bid for international glory, and some familiar names walking away as FIFA’s Best.

Host: Michael Bailey

Producer: Abi Paterson and Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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How much trouble is Xavi in? Jan 15, 2024

A new era edges closer at Manchester United. Laurie Whitwell was at Old Trafford for Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s first time in attendance since striking a deal.

Why were Barcelona so bad in El Clasico? Dermot Corrigan on what’s wrong in the Catalan capital.

And FFP trouble for Everton and Forest. David Ornstein explains the recent financial breaches.

Host: Tim Spiers

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Eric Dier follows Harry Kane to Bayern Munich Jan 12, 2024

How has Eric Dier ended up at Bayern Munich? Seb Stafford-Bloor explains why Dier is headed to the German champions.

Barcelona set up El Clasico by winning in the Supercopa. Laia Cervello recaps Barca’s 2-0 win against Osasuna.

Who could be the “next Thiago Silva” at Chelsea? Liam Twomey thinks there’s a rising young star.

And can Jadon Sancho resurrect his career back in Germany? Mark Critchley on Sancho’s deteriorated relationship with Ten Hag.

Host: Tim Spiers

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Liverpool super subs lead Cup comeback Jan 11, 2024

Liverpool leave it late in the Carabao Cup. James Pearce was at Anfield to see Jurgen Klopp's subs change the tie against Fulham.

Who is Spurs’ latest signing? James Horncastle tells all about Romanian defender Radu Dragusin.

Can Barca meet Real Madrid in the Supercopa final - and could one of their top talents leave this month? Dermot Corrigan has the details.

Host: Michael Bailey

Producer: Mike Zimmermann and Abi Paterson

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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A new low for Chelsea Jan 10, 2024

Chelsea are shocked by Boro in the Carabao Cup. Simon Johnson was at the Riverside to watch the shock unfold.

No Trent for Liverpool tonight against Fulham. James Pearce brings the details on TAA's injury.

And we have the latest transfer news - including Werner’s return to London. Seb Stafford Bloor explains why Timo chose Tottenham.

Host: Adam Leventhal

Producer: Mike Zimmermann and Abi Paterson

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Man Utd's hope for silverware alive Jan 09, 2024

Manchester United make the FA Cup 4th round draw with win over Wigan. Laurie Whitwell was on hand to watch, as was Sir Dave Brailsford once more.

Pochettino explains Chelsea’s transfer plans. Simon Johnson tells us what to expect from the Blues this month.

As a Liverpool prospect goes on loan. James Pearce has the details on Fabio Carvalho's move to Hull.

Host: Adam Leventhal

Producer: Mike Zimmermann and Abi Paterson

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Could Jordan Henderson return to Liverpool? Jan 08, 2024

Is Jordan Henderson coming home? James Pearce has the latest on a potential Liverpool return for the former captain.

Will Timo Werner redeem himself in England? Seb Stafford-Bloor looks at how Werner will fit in at Spurs.

And have Arsenal got a problem? James McNicholas dives into the goal scoring issues for the Gunners.

Host: Iain Macintosh

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Which transfers could happen in January? Dec 22, 2023

The European Super League is back on the agenda. Phil Buckingham on why Real Madrid and Barcelona got the ruling they wanted.

Is a new striker on the way to Chelsea in January? David Ornstein has the January transfer plans of the Premier League’s top teams.

And who will make the difference for Arsenal at Liverpool? Art de Roche tells us the X-factor for the Gunners.

Host: Adam Leventhal

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Is the European Super League back? Dec 21, 2023

Adam Leventhal hears from The Athletic's Phil Buckingham about the news that FIFA and UEFA's rules blocking a potential European Super League have been ruled to be unlawful. So, is the Super League back from the dead?

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Is Harry Kane making the Bundesliga look weak? Dec 21, 2023

Are Liverpool ready for a title battle? After their 5-1 win over West Ham in the Carabao Cup, James Pearce looks ahead to the top of the table clash with Arsenal at the weekend.

Is Harry Kane making the Bundesliga look weak? Seb Stafford Bloor watched the Englishman score his 25th goal of the season in 22 games.

Plus Charlotte Harpur brings us up to speed in another dramatic night in the Women's Champions League.

Host: Michael Bailey

Producer: Mike Zimmermann and Abi Paterson

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Newcastle trip up in the Cup Dec 20, 2023

Newcastle trip up in the Cup. George Caulkin watched the Magpies exit another competition within the week.

As Chelsea soldier on into the semi finals. Simon Johnson looks back on a successful night at Stamford Bridge.

Steve Cooper becomes the second manager sacked in the Premier League this season, Paul Taylor considers his legacy and what his likely successor, Nuno Espirito Santo, might bring to the club.

Host: Michael Bailey

Producer: Mike Zimmermann and Abi Paterson

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Why Real Sociedad - PSG is the must-watch Champions League tie Dec 19, 2023

Why Real Sociedad - PSG is the must-watch CL tie. Duncan Alexander reacts to the Champions draw and explains why you need to start caring about the word "coefficient".

Is Pochettino still in favour at Chelsea? Simon Johnson runs the rule over the Blues ahead of their Carabao Cup quarter final against Newcastle. Chris Waugh also joins to preview the tie from the Magpies' perspective.

Host: Michael Bailey

Producer: Mike Zimmermann and Abi Paterson

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Manchester United and Liverpool battle to a stalemate at Anfield Dec 18, 2023

Arsenal go top as Liverpool and Manchester United grind out a dull goalless draw. James Pearce and Laurie Whitwell were at Anfield.

Barcelona fail to win again. How bad could this get? Dermot Corrigan reveals how much support Xavi has.

And how much fun in the Bundesliga this year? Seb Stafford-Bloor takes us around the results from Germany.

Host: Iain Macintosh

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Liverpool look to inflict more misery on Man United Dec 15, 2023

Graham Potter to Manchester United - could it happen? Mark Critchley has the latest on the rumours.

It’s one of the subplots ahead of the big game of the weekend as United visit Anfield. James Pearce on how Liverpool are preparing for their rivals.

And it was a successful night for Premier League teams in Europe.

Host: Adam Leventhal

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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PSG scrape through as Newcastle exit Europe Dec 14, 2023

PSG are through to the Champions League knockouts. Peter Rutzler was in Germany to watch the French side join Borussia Dortmund in the R16 - but will teams fear the french side?

Newcastle are left to rue what might have been. George Caulkin reflects on the rollercoaster group stage in Tyneside.

The pressure cranks up on Xavi after another Barcelona loss. Pol Ballus tells us about the tricky pre match preparations for the Barca boss.

Host: Michael Bailey

Producer: Mike Zimmermann and Abi Paterson

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Manchester United out of Europe Dec 13, 2023

Manchester United are out of Europe. Mark Critchley was at Old Trafford to watch a lacklustre United limp out of the Champions League.

Newcastle and AC Milan sweat over yet more fitness issues. Chris Waugh and James Horncastle preview this key match up in Group F.

And we have the latest on the Turkish top-flight suspension. Nick Miller has been following the story and brings us up to date.

Host: Michael Bailey

Producer: Mike Zimmermann and Abi Paterson

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Win or bust for Man Utd against Bayern Dec 12, 2023

It’s win or bust for Manchester United against Bayern Munich. Carl Anka tells us what the English team need to remain in Europe.

Arsenal ready the kids for PSV. Jordan Campbell tells us why an Arsenal record may be broken tonight.

Plus we reflect on Barcelona’s La Liga woes. After losing 4-2 at home to surprise league leaders Girona, Pol Ballus runs the rule over what's going wrong for the Catalan giants.

Host: Tim Spiers

Producer: Mike Zimmermann and Abi Paterson

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Man United suffer worst defeat in post-Ferguson era Dec 11, 2023

More woe for Manchester United. Mark Critchley reflects on the 3-0 defeat to Bournemouth.

Do Chelsea really need to spend more money? Liam Twomey on Pochettino trying to find solutions.

How on earth did Bayern Munich lose 5-1? Raphael Honigstein talks about Bayern’s issues that led to such a big loss.

And a significant WSL title result. Jessy Parker Humphreys reacts to Arsenal’s huge win against Chelsea.

Host: Tim Spiers

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Everton run rampant over Newcastle at Goodison Dec 08, 2023

10pt penalty - but Everton out of the bottom 3. Patrick Boyland was at Goodison Park for an emotional night.

Newcastle left Goodison bruised. Chris Waugh talks about fatigues and injuries…

It’s Spurs next, who lose after leading… again. Tim Spiers on Tottenham’s shaky form.

And we preview Man City’s conquerors Aston Villa welcoming Arsenal. Art de Roche looks ahead to Unai Emery facing his old club.

Host: Adam Leventhal

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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City stunned by Villa. How serious is this wobble? Dec 07, 2023

How serious is Manchester City's wobble? Sam Lee watched the title holders continue their winless streak at Villa Park.

How did Aston Villa defy expectation to defeat the Champions? Jacob Tanswell brings the other side of the coin as the Villains won their 14th consecutive home game.

Have Manchester United turned a corner… again? Laurie Whitwell looks back on how Erik ten Hag's big calls came off against Chelsea.

Is that it for Steve Cooper at Forest? Nick Miller was at Craven Cottage to see what could well be Steve Cooper's last match in charge.

Host: Michael Bailey

Producer: Mike Zimmermann and Abi Paterson

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Rice rescues Arsenal Dec 06, 2023

Declan Rice rescues Arsenal in a thrilling fightback against Luton. James McNicholas was at Kenilworth Road as the Gunners remained composed in the chaos.

Manchester United get ready to face Chelsea amid questions over Eric ten Hag's management style. Laurie Whitwell was one of the journalists allowed at the pre match press conference as club-media relations sour.

Team GB fail to qualify for the Olympics despite a 6-0 win for England. Charlotte Harpur watched the heartbreak in Hampden.

Host: Tim Spiers

Producer: Mike Zimmermann and Abi Paterson

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Manchester City charged by the FA Dec 05, 2023

Could Newcastle really sign David de Gea? Is Wilder set for a wild Premier League return? David Ornstein has the latest.

Will Manchester City players be charged by the FA? Oli Kay thinks only the club will be fined.

And what’s at stake for the Lionesses as they reach Olympics crunch time? Charlotte Harpur is in Edinburgh for the match.

Host: Michael Bailey

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Man City and Spurs draw 3-3 in a classic Dec 04, 2023

Man City drop points again in a classic with Spurs. Sam Lee and Charlie Eccleshare react from the Etihad.

Liverpool edge Fulham in a thriller. James Pearce was at Anfield for the late drama.

Joao Felix downs his parent club with the winner for Barcelona. Dermot Corrigan believes this was crucial for Barca’s title hopes.

And Inter win big in Naples. James Horncastle on the Nerazzurri's chase for their 20th Scudetto.

Host: Tim Spiers

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Euro 2024 draw explained and analysed Dec 02, 2023

Who got the toughest group? Dermot Corrigan and James Horncastle react to Spain and Italy landing in the “Group of Death”.

Have England got another lucky draw? Tim Spiers thinks the Three Lions got a very favorable draw.

Can hosts Germany get some early momentum? Raphael Honigstein previews the host’s draw and lead-up.

Plus, Matt Slater was in Hamburg for the draw!

Host: Michael Bailey

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Pep vs. Postecoglou: Spurs look to stifle Man City Dec 01, 2023

Four Premier League sides advance in Europe - with Liverpool leading the way. James Pearce was at Anfield.

We gear up for a big weekend in the Premier League - which includes Pep v Postecoglou. Tim Spiers previews the big matchup.

And we preview some other big European games in Germany, Spain and Italy. Dermot Corrgian on Barcelona-Atletico Madrid, Seb Stafford-Bloor on Bayer Leverkusen-Borussia Dortmund, and James Horncastle on Napoli-Inter Milan.

Host: Adam Leventhal

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Onana errors leave United on the brink Nov 30, 2023

Onana errors leave United on the brink. Dan Sheldon was in Istanbul as United's draw with Galatasaray meant their Champions League fate is out of their hands.

Arsenal through as they hit six against Lens. Jordan Campbell watched the Gunners click into gear.

Have Real Madrid alreadylined up their next manager? Felipe Cardenas reacts to reports that Lionel Scaloni will step down as Argentina manager after Copa America.

Presenter: Michael Bailey

Producers: Abi Paterson and Mike Zimmermann

Exec Prod: Iain Macintosh

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Newcastle denied by controversial PSG penalty Nov 29, 2023

Newcastle have their hearts broken in Paris. Jacob Whitehead looks back on a controversial decision to award PSG a penalty and what it means for Newcastle's hopes of progression in the Champions League.

An Englishman helps Dortmund through to the knockout stages. Seb Stafford Bloor tells us about Jamie Bynoe-Gittens, the youngster among the goals for the German side.

Can Manchester United save their Champions League campaign tonight? Dan Sheldon is in Istanbul ahead of United's crucial tie against Galatasaray.

Host: Tim Spiers

Producers: Abi Paterson and Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producers: Iain Macintosh and Ben Green

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Is Newcastle's Champions League adventure set to end in Paris? Nov 28, 2023

Is Newcastle's Champions League adventure set to end in Paris? Jacob Whitehead is in the French capital to preview PSG v Newcastle.

How much pressure is Xavi under at Barcelona? The Catalan club face Porto in the Champions League, needing a win to get themselves back on track ahead of a tricky run of fixtures. Laia Cervello Herrero has the latest.

Plus we round up what happened in the Premier League and La Liga on Monday night.

Presenter: Michael Bailey

Producers: Abi Paterson and Michael Bailey

Exec Prod: Iain Macintosh

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Garnacho's wonder-goal helps United win at a wild Goodison Park Nov 27, 2023

Manchester United chase down the top five. Carl Anka was at Goodison Park for a chaotic atmosphere.

What happened in the Derby d’Italia? James Horncastle on how the Juve-Inter result is good for the Serie A title race.

And we pay tribute to Terry Venables. Michael Cox reflects on the legacy Venables leaves behind.

Host: Tim Spiers

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Can Liverpool knock City off their perch? Nov 24, 2023

Can Liverpool knock City off their perch? James Pearce previews the clash between the top two in the Premier League

Who will win the Derby d'Italia? James Horncastle explains why Juventus v Inter is the bitterest rivalry in Serie A

What's the mood at Everton ahead of their first game post the ten point deduction? Patrick Boyland tells us what to expect at Goodison when the Toffees face Manchester United

Host: Adam Leventhal

Producer: Abi Paterson

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh and Ben Green

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Is Lionel Scaloni stepping down as Argentina manager? Nov 23, 2023

Today…

What sparked those troubling scenes at the Maracana? Are the World Cup winners set to lose their head coach? Jack Lang talks about the fallout from Brazil vs. Argentina in Rio.

Barcelona and Lyon were in action in the Women’s Champions League.

And will it come good for Mason Mount at Manchester United? Oil Kay on the midfielder’s rough start at Old Trafford.

Host: Michael Bailey

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Are Messi and Ronaldo REALLY set for one last dance? Nov 22, 2023

Are Messi and Ronaldo really set for one last dance? With Saudi Arabia saying one thing and Inter Miami saying another, Alexander Abnos takes us through what we know so far about this potential fixture.

Why has a plan to ban related-club loans in January failed? David Ornstein has the details on the Premier League's attempt to stop related party loans in January.

How did that clash between Brazil and Argentina go? Felipe Cardenas watched on as trouble off the pitch overshadowed events on it.

Host: Michael Bailey

Producers: Mike Zimmermann and Abi Paterson

Exec Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Italy book place at Euro 2024, PSG lose young star to injury, and Brazil face Argentina Nov 21, 2023

As Italy draw 0-0 with Ukraine to book their place in Euro 2024, James Horncastle assesses their credentials as they look to retain their crown in Germany next year.

Injuries for PSG and Barcelona starlets Warren Zaire Emery and Gavi tarnish their international breaks. Peter Rutzler tells us what that means for the French side.

As Brazil and Argentina prepare to face off in the World Cup Qualifiers tonight, Copa America has announced its opening and closing venues for next year's tournament. Felipe Cardenas looks at what that might mean for the 2026 World Cup.

Host: Tim Spiers

Producer: Mike Zimmermann and Abi Paterson

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Can Everton be saved by new owners? Nov 20, 2023

Today…

How can Everton be saved? Matt Slater talks about the financial future of the Toffees.

Records are smashed in the Euros qualifiers…

And who won the Manchester derby in the WSL? Carl Anka was at Old Trafford for the record setting crowd.

Host: Tim Spiers

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Everton docked 10 points with immediate effect Nov 17, 2023

Adam Leventhal presents a breaking news edition of The Daily Football Briefing, reacting to the development that Everton have been hit by the biggest sporting sanction in Premier League history of a 10 point deduction which comes into force with immediate effect. The Athletic’s Senior Football News Reporter Matt Slater joins us to explain more.

Host: Adam Leventhal

Producer: Charlie Jones

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Mo Salah scores four, Spain's Euro chances and Southgate on pay equality Nov 17, 2023

With 12 teams now booked at Euro 2024 - We assess Spain’s credentials. Dermot Corrigan on if Spain can challenge for the Euro 2024 trophy.

There’s England boss Gareth Southgate on pay equality. Roshane Thomas was at Southgate’s press conference.

As Mo Salah scores four, we talk international records. Michael Cox details why we’re seeing so many goal-scoring records.

Host: Adam Leventhal

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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What do the latest changes mean for Manchester United? Nov 16, 2023

What do the latest changes mean for Manchester United? Adam Crafton has all the details on the departure of CEO Richard Arnold

How did Chelseado, now they know Emma Hayes is US-bound? Abi Paterson watched the controversial Champions League match between Chelsea and Real Madrid

Is it the end of the line for a true football fairytale? As Union Berlin reluctantly part ways with Urs Fischer, Stu James explains why this was not an easy decision.

Host: Michael Bailey

Producers: Mike Zimmermann and Abi Paterson

Exec Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Why the USA hired Emma Hayes Nov 15, 2023

Why is Emma Hayes off to the USA? Meg Linehan explains why this move to the USWNT makes sense for the Chelsea manager

How much does it cost to win the treble? Mark Critchley has been crunching Man City's numbers

Is Xabi Alonso proving the real deal with Bayer Leverkusen? Thom Harris tells us all about the Spaniard's brilliant start to Bundesliga management

Host: Michael Bailey

Producers: Mike Zimmermann and Abi Paterson

Exec Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Has Mauricio Pochettino turned it around at Chelsea? Nov 14, 2023

Has Mauricio Pochettino turned it around at Chelsea? After successive impressive results the Argentine has endeared himself to the Chelsea supporters as Simon Johnson explains

Are the Italian champions about to sack their manager? James Horncastle has the latest on Napoli's stuttered start to the season

What’s going wrong at Barcelona? As Xavi says, the team are in a "rough patch". Pol Ballus looks at why that is the case.

Host: Tim Spiers

Producer: Abi Paterson and Mike Zimmermann

Exec Prod: Iain Macintosh

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Chelsea go toe-to-toe with Manchester City at Stamford Bridge Nov 13, 2023

Will the real Chelsea please stand up? Liam Twomey was at Stamford Bridge for Chelsea’s wild 4-4 draw against City.

Which Bundesliga record has Harry Kane broken now? Seb Stafford-Bloor tells us how Harry Kane has passed Robert Lewandowski in the history books.

And why did Kylian Mbappe score a hat-trick, but not win favour from his manager? Peter Rutzler on the friction between Mbappe and Luis Enrique.

Host: Michael Bailey

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Can Chelsea follow up their Tottenham win against Man City? Nov 10, 2023

Today…

Liverpool slip up in Europe. Gregg Evans was in Toulouse for Liverpool’s 3-2 shock defeat.

Can Chelsea follow up their Tottenham win against Man City? Liam Twomey talks about Chelsea’s mindset as they get ready to host the defending champions.

And what now for Raheem Sterling & England? Tim Spiers tells us the reasons behind Gareth Southgate’s squad selection.

Host: Adam Leventhal

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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How bad will it get for Manchester United, as they collapse in Copenhagen? Nov 09, 2023

How bad will it get for Manchester United, as they collapse in Copenhagen? Carl Anka watched on as Manchester United fell to yet another defeat.

Do Arsenal no longer need strikers? With both Eddie Nketiah and Gabriel Jesus out, Arsenal showed that they have players they can call on as James McNicholas explains.

How are the Premier League hoping to change the rules for this January’s transfer window? David Ornstein has the details on a potential change in the rules.

Host: Michael Bailey

Producers: Mike Zimmerman and Abi Paterson

Exec Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Man City through, Dortmund bounce back, and Atletico have plenty to smile about on and off the pitch Nov 08, 2023

Who has made the Champions League knockout stages with two games to spare? The holders did the job on Tuesday night, Sam Lee tells us what that means for the rest of City's group stage matches.

Why do Atletico Madrid fans have more than six reasons to smile? Dermot Corrigan looks at the state of play at Atletico de Madrid.

What does Dortmund's victory over Newcastle mean for both teams? Chris Waugh takes positives from the night's results and Seb Stafford Bloor praises Dortmund's bounce back from derby defeat.

Can Rasmus Hojlund find his feet at Manchester United? As the Dane returns to Copenhagen in the Champions League, Oli Kay has been looking at United's front man.

Host: Michael Bailey

Producers: Mike Zimmerman and Abi Paterson

Exec Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Chelsea victorious after chaotic night in Tottenham Nov 07, 2023

Today…

Chelsea end Spurs’ unbeaten start to the season. Liam Twomey talks about Chelsea’s best result, but worst performance, of the season.

Tim Spiers also joins from Tottenham Hotspur Stadium to reflect on the chaotic match.

Plus a look at who can make it through to the knockout stages of the Champions League, and who’s on the brink. James Horncastle previews the PSG-Milan match.

Host: Abi Paterson

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Harry Kane makes history, Poch's return to Spurs and Emma Hayes to leave Chelsea Nov 06, 2023

Today…

Harry Kane’s chase for history. Seb Stafford-Bloor discusses Kane’s performance in Der Klassiker.

Mauricio Pochettino makes his return to Tottenham. Liam Twomey on the Argentine manager’s return to Spurs.

And Emma Hayes is set to leave Chelsea. David Ornstein has the latest.

Host: Mike Zimmermann

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Ben Green

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How secure is Erik ten Hag’s position at Manchester United? Nov 03, 2023

Today…

How secure is Erik ten Hag's position at Manchester United? Carl Anka has the latest on the United manager’s future.

Is Arsenal’s trip to Newcastle a litmus test? Jordan Campbell describes Arsenal’s attitude after a midweek loss.

And we preview Harry Kane’s first Der Klassiker. Seb Stafford-Bloor talks about the inconsistencies surrounding Bayern and Dortmund.

Host: Adam Leventhal

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Ben Green

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Is another home humiliation a new low for Manchester United? Nov 02, 2023

Is another home humiliation a new low for Manchester United? Mark Critchley reviews yet another 3-0 home defeat for the red side of Manchester while Chris Waugh details the rather more united Newcastle side of events.

Is it another opportunity missed for Arsenal? Jordan Campbell watched the Gunners crash out of the Carabao Cup.

Is Ivan Toney for sale come January? Jay Harris tells us why the England striker may not get his wish.

Host: Michael Bailey

Producer: Abi Paterson and Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Ben Green

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Manchester United continue Cup defence, Everton's possible points deduction, and 2034 World Cup decided Nov 01, 2023

Could a Cup win ease the heat on Erik Ten Hag? Mark Critchley previews their increasingly more vital match against Newcastle United in the League Cup.

Will Everton be on the end of a 12-point deduction? Paddy Boyland brings us up to date with the Toffees' situation.

Do we need to pencil in another winter World Cup in Saudi Arabia? Matt Slater has the details from Tuesday's announcement.

Host: Michael Bailey

Producer: Abi Paterson and Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Lionel Messi wins historic eighth Ballon d'Or Oct 31, 2023

Lionel Messi makes history. Again. Whilst it was no surprise to see the Argentinian pick up the Ballon d'Or, Felipe Cardenas looks at why this ceremony signalled a changing of the guard.

There were no surprises on the women's side as Aitana Bonmati adds yet another trophy to her growing collection. Sophie Penney tells us why she was the deserving recipient.

We have the latest on the search for the father of Liverpool player Luis Diaz. Luke Bosher has the update.

Host: Tim Spiers

Producer: Abi Paterson

Exec Prod: Ben Green

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Manchester City dominates the derby, Jude Bellingham's Clasico and Liverpool win big Oct 30, 2023

Today…

Manchester is blue after the big derby goes City’s way. Sam Lee and Dan Sheldon recap the match from Old Trafford.

Liverpool win at home yet again. James Peace reacts to an impressive performance from Jurgen Klopp’s team.

And Jude Bellingham stars in one of world football’s grandest games. Dermot Corrigan on Jude Bellingham’s historic rise.

Host: Tim Spiers

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Ben Green

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The Manchester derby awaits, Spurs handling the heat and Sandro Tonali banned for 10 months Oct 27, 2023

Today…

Can Newcastle cope without their most expensive signing of the summer? Jacob Whitehead has the details of Sandro Tonali’s ban.

Can Spurs handle the heat at the top? Charlie Eccleshare previews Tottenham’s Friday night match against Crystal Palace.

And who’s going to triumph in the Manchester derby? We hear from both sides of the city, as Laurie Whitwell and Sam Lee look ahead to the red-blue divide.

Host: Tim Spiers

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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PSG dominant, Newcastle defeated, and what's happening at managerless Ajax Oct 26, 2023

Who stood out in Wednesday’s Champions League action? Peter Rutzler watched PSG dominate AC Milan.

What did Newcastle learn in defeat to Dortmund? George Caulkin has the debrief.

Can managerless Ajax turn their horrendous form around against Brighton? Carl Anka has the story from the Dutch giants and their turbulent season.

Host: Mike Zimmermann

Producer: Abi Paterson

Exec Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Onana saves United, Arsenal back on track, and Newcastle look to remain unbeaten in the Champions League Oct 25, 2023

Andre Onana saves the day. Laurie Whitwell was at Old Trafford to see Manchester United pick up their first points in Europe.

Gabriel Jesus stars as Arsenal beat Sevilla. James McNicholas joins to tell us all about the Gunners' victory.

And despite uncertainty around Tonali, Newcastle look to continue their unbeaten start in Europe. Jacob Whitehead previews their match against Borussia Dortmund.

Host: Abi Paterson

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Exec Prod: Ben Green

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Are Spurs credible title contenders? Oct 24, 2023

Are Spurs title contenders? Tim Spiers was at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium to watch the North London side return to the top of the table.

Can Manchester United grab their first Champions League points? Mark Critchley previews United's match against FC Copenhagen.

Can Arsenal restart their European campaign? James McNicholas is in Seville ahead of Arsenal's tricky tie.

Host: Mike Zimmermann

Producer: Abi Paterson

Exec Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Remembering Sir Bobby Charlton Oct 23, 2023

Today…

Just two points separate the top five in the Premier League. Jacob Tanswell on Aston Villa’s climb up the table.

Who won between two Italian giants? James Horncastle breaks down Juventus v AC Milan.

And football pays tribute to Sir Bobby Charlton. Michael Walker remembers the icon.

Host: Tim Spiers

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Is this the end for Neymar? Oct 20, 2023

Today…

Is this the end for Neymar? Nick Miller tells us about the road ahead for the Brazilian superstar.

What’s in store as Chelsea meet Arsenal? We check in with Nnamdi Onyeagwara and Liam Twomey ahead of the London Derby.

Which games deserve your attention this weekend? A run-through of the best storylines to follow.

Host: Michael Bailey

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Sandro Tonali faces suspension, Manchester United's ownership vote and the Merseyside Derby Oct 19, 2023

Today…

Could Newcastle’s 55 million pound signing be suspended from football? Jacob Whitehead with the latest reporting on Sandro Tonali.

Will Manchester United vote on selling part of the club today? Dan Sheldon tells us what we need to know.

And are Liverpool ready for a Merseyside derby? Gregg Evans discusses the challenges facing the Reds ahead of Saturday.

Host: Tim Spiers

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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England qualify for the 2024 Euros Oct 18, 2023

Today…

Why are Italy at risk of missing another major tournament? James Horncastle explains the Azzurri’s transition period.

England are heading to the 2024 Euros in Germany. Tim Spiers was at Wembley for the clinching matching.

How patient do Man United fans need to be over their potential new investors? Matt Slater goes behind the business.

Are Barcelona stillin trouble over alleged corruption involving Spain’s referees? Pol Ballús has the latest.

Host: Michael Bailey

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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England and Italy return to Wembley Oct 17, 2023

Today…

Why are England fans booing Jordan Henderson? Tim Spiers has the answers.

Why are Italy without two of their best players? James Horncastle tells us everything we need to know about the Italian betting scandal.

Host: Michael Bailey

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Manchester United’s takeover saga, Scotland qualifies for the Euros and WSL drama Oct 16, 2023

Today…

Another twist in Manchester United takeover saga. Mark Critchley has the latest details.

Scotland qualify for the Euros. Jordan Campbell on what it means to the country and federation.

And late drama in the WSL. Jessy Parker Humphreys was at the Emirates for Arsenal’s late comeback.

Host: Tim Spiers

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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England looks ahead to Australia, Scotland has to wait and Old Trafford snubbed from the Euros Oct 13, 2023

Today…

As England prepare to play Australia - the PL and FA comment on Israel and Palestine. Tim Spiers has the latest.

Spain strengthen their Euro 2024 chances, as Scotland are made to wait. Dermot Corrigan was at the match in Seville.

And no Old Trafford at the UK and Ireland EURO 2028 - why? Danny Taylor explains.

Host: Adam Leventhal

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Liverpool duo duel in South America, Scotland look to get job done against Spain, and USMNT face Germany Oct 12, 2023

As the competitive internationals get underway, Thursday's Euro 2024 qualifying action is headlined by Spain versus Scotland, the latter of whom just need a point to qualify for the tournament. Jordan Campbell and Dermot Corrigan preview what's on the table for both sides.

Over the Atlantic there's plenty of action too with the South American World Cup qualifiers which see Colombia taking on Uruguay (or Luis Dias v Darwin Nunez for Liverpool fans) and Messi's Argentina face Paraguay. While the USMNT have a big friendly against Germany to test themselves. Across all of it for The Athletic is Felipe Cardenas.

Host: Michael Bailey

Producers: Abi Paterson and Mike Zimmermann

Exec Prod: Iain Macintosh

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Eden Hazard retires. How should he be remembered? Oct 10, 2023

How should Eden Hazard be remembered? Michael Cox looks back on the Belgian's career.

Why is Howard Webb bringing up that VAR incident again? Phil Buckingham watched 'Match Officials Mic'd Up' so you didn't have to.

Who is Johan Lange - the technical director appointed by the Premier League leaders? Charlie Eccleshare tells us about the man taking over from Fabio Paratici.

What happened in Manchester United Women's first ever Champions League match? Carl Anka was there to watch.

Host: Michael Bailey

Producers: Abi Paterson and Mike Zimmermann

Exec Prod: Iain Macintosh

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Euro 2028 hosts to be announced, Rooney to Birmingham City rumours, and what now for Lionel Messi? Oct 10, 2023

UEFA are set to announce the hosts for Euro 2028. Matt Slater is in Nyon, Switzerland, for the announcement and tells us what to expect from UEFA HQ.

Is Wayne Rooney heading to Birmingham? Tom Burrows has been following the story.

And what does Lionel Messi do with no club games for the next four months? Inter Miami can no longer make the play offs so Jeff Rueter maps out what might happen for the Argentinian over the coming months.

Host: Tim Spiers

Producers: Mike Zimmermann and Abi Paterson

Exec Prod: Iain Macintosh

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Arsenal's huge step towards a title and Manchester City's struggles Oct 09, 2023

Today…

Do Arsenal believe they can win the title? Amy Lawrence on the Gunners’ huge win against Manchester City.

Why do Manchester City keep losing? Sam Lee tells us how important the absence of Rodri is.

And who has become La Liga’s youngest ever goalscorer? Pol Ballús has the story of Lamine Yamal.

Host: Tim Spiers

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Introducing: The Daily Football Briefing Oct 06, 2023

The Daily Football Briefing is a 15 minute bitesize podcast that brings you up to speed every weekday morning.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Gravenberch stars for Liverpool and looking ahead to the City-Arsenal clash Oct 06, 2023

Today…

Is Gravenberch finding his feet at Liverpool? James Pearce reacts to the newest Red’s breakout performance.

What else caught the eye in last night’s European action? Liam Tharme and Jacob Tanswell check in after Brighton and Aston Villa underwhelm.

And are Man City reallyin prime shape ahead of facing Arsenal? Mark Critchley thinks they could struggle in the midfield…

Host: Michael Bailey

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Newcastle thrash PSG and the World Cup goes to six countries Oct 05, 2023

In the Champions League, Newcastle thrashed PSG. Hear reaction from both sides with Jacob Whitehead and Peter Rutzler at St James' Park

The 2030 World Cup goes to six countries. Matt Slater explains why and what this means for 2034.

And Liverpool want a Spurs replay, so Jurgen Klopp says. James Pearce was there to hear the Liverpool boss speak.

Host: Adam Leventhal

Producers: Mike Zimmermann and Abi Paterson

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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What now for Manchester United’s Champions League hopes? Oct 04, 2023

What now for Manchester United’s Champions League hopes? Laurie Whitwell was at Old Trafford to watch United succumb to another European defeat.

Is Bukayo Saka’s untouchable run over? The forward was subbed off after 34 minutes, Abi Paterson has the latest on Saka's latest knock.

How are Newcastle feeling ahead of their match with PSG? George Caulkin looks ahead to Newcastle's first home Champions League fixture in 20 years.

And PGMOL release the VAR audio from Luis Diaz's disallowed goal.

Host: Michael Bailey

Producers: Abi Paterson and Mike Zimmermann

Exec Prod: Iain Macintosh

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Mudryk scores for Chelsea, Liverpool demand VAR answers, and Champions League preview Oct 03, 2023

Mudryk scores his first Chelsea goal. Simon Johnson was at Craven Cottage to watch the young Ukrainian get on the scoresheet.

Liverpool demand VAR answers. Tom Burrows has been investigating the Reds' legal options against PGMOL

And the Champions League returns tonight with pick of the ties seeing Real Madrid head coach Carlo Ancelotti return to former side Napoli. James Horncastle previews the fixture.

Host: Tim Spiers

Producers: Mike Zimmermann and Abi Paterson

Exec Prod: Iain Macintosh

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Are Spurs title contenders? Oct 02, 2023

Today…

Are Spurs title contenders? Liam Tharme breaks down Tottenham’s emotional win against Liverpool and if they showed enough to stay in the title race.

Can VAR be fixed? Nick Miller dives into the Video Assistant Referee issues and how they can be fixed.

And how low can Manchester United go? After another woeful performance, Laurie Whitwell tells us what is going on at Old Trafford.

Host: Tim Spiers

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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How far can Liverpool and Spurs go? Sep 29, 2023

Liverpool and Spurs have had summer resets and face each other at the weekend to really put those shifts to the test. Tim Spiers and Caoimhe O’Neill look at the changes made from last season.

Barcelona and Sevilla are the highlight of La Liga this weekend. Dermot Corrigan joins to discuss how Xavi will shuffle the midfield with De Jong injured.

And it's a huge day for football gamers! Mark Critchley explains the EA Sports rebrand from FIFA to EA FC.

Host: Adam Leventhal

Producers: Mike Zimmermann and Abi Paterson

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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What is going on with Napoli and Victor Osimhen? Sep 28, 2023

What is going on with Napoli and Victor Osimhen? James Horncastle has the details on the couple of TikToks that the club released appearing to mock their own player.

What happened in Wednesday's football? The quadruple is off for City after their loss to Newcastle, there at St James' Park was Mark Critchley and Felipe Cardenas was on Inter Miami watch at the US Open Cup Final.

Why might Aston Villa not be fit to wear their own shirts? Gregg Evans has the story on why Villa aren't too happy with their "wet look" tops.

Host: Michael Bailey

Producers: Abi Paterson and Mike Zimmermann

Exec Prod: Iain Macintosh

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What happened in the Carabao Cup and why is Red Bull making headlines? Sep 27, 2023

What did we learn from Manchester United's win over Crystal Palace? From Old Trafford Carl Anka tells us all about Garnacho, Mount, and what this means for United's next match against, checks notes, Crystal Palace.

How is Pochettino prepping Chelsea for Brighton? By discussing the owners' regular visits to the dressing room after matches, as Liam Twomey explains.

Why has Red Bull given Salzburg zings?! Nick Miller made the journey to Austria to watch a rivalry 18 years in the making take place as Austria Salzburg hosted Red Bull Salzburg in a fiery encounter.

Host: Michael Bailey

Producers: Abi Paterson and Mike Zimmermann

Exec Prod: Iain Macintosh

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What is Liverpool 2.0? Sep 26, 2023

What is Liverpool 2.0? James Pearce breaks down what has invigorated Jurgen Klopp's team and the start of this season

Is this Kalvin Phillips' chance? With Rodri seeing red at the weekend, Sam Lee discusses whether the Englishman can prove himself to Pep Guardiola

And what on earth is happening at Ajax? De Klassieker was abandoned at the weekend, set to be resumed on Wednesday, but the rot runs deeper than just recent events as Carl Anka explains

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What did we learn from the North London Derby? Sep 25, 2023

Today…

The North London Derby didn’t disappoint. Art de Roche and Charlie Eccleshare react to the 2-2 draw at The Emirates.

Newcastle made Premier League history with 8 different goal-scorers in one game. Jacob Whitehead reflects on the shocking result.

And another goalless game for Chelsea. Simon Johnson tries to put into perspective the loss for the Blues.

Host: Tim Spiers

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Are Liverpool still Europa League favourites? Sep 22, 2023

Today…

It was a busy Thursday night in the Europa and Europa Conference Leagues. James Pearce reacts to Liverpool’s slow start in Austria, and whether or not the Reds are still competition favourites.

Brighton made their European debut with a 3-2 loss to AEK Athens. Andy Naylor was at the Amex Stadium for the club’s historic night.

And the US Women’s National Team were back in action for the first time since their World Cup shock. Meg Linehan reflects on Julie Ertz’s final national team game.

Host: Adam Leventhal

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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What did we learn from Wednesday's Champions League results? Sep 21, 2023

Today...

It was a night of contrasts for the English teams in the Champions League. Laurie Whitwell reacts to the seven goal thriller in Munich as Manchester United lost 4-3 to Bayern Munich. Whilst Jordan Campbell was at the Emirates for Arsenal's emphatic return to Europe's top tier.

Did another Bellingham late show paper over Real Madrid cracks? There watching the young Englishman get on the scoresheet again was Dermot Corrigan.

Can Unai Emery weave his European magic again… with Aston Villa? Jacob Tanswell previews Villa's opener in the Conference League.

Host: Michael Bailey

Producers: Mike Zimmerman and Abi Paterson

Exec Producer: Iain Macintosh

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What happened on day one of the Champions League? Sep 20, 2023

Today:

What happened on day one of the Champions League? Michael Bailey rounds up all the key events and we hone in on Newcastle's return to the tournament with George Caulkin in Milan and Jacob Whitehead.

How does Ole Gunnar Solkjaer reflect on his time at Manchester United? Andy Mitten has spoken exclusively to the former United manager.

Is Julian Nagelsmann paving the way for Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool exit? Raphael Honigstein maps out what the future of the German manager role might look like

Host: Michael Bailey

Producers: Mike Zimmerman and Abi Paterson

Exec Producer: Iain Macintosh

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As the Champions League returns, what should you expect? Sep 19, 2023

Today:

Will any of the Premier League new boys stay up? Andy Jones was at the City Ground to see Burnley take on Forest where they claimed a point, but significantly not yet a win.

Why are Everton getting cash injections from their prospective new owners? Rhodri Cannon brings the details on what this latest development means for the Toffees

And as the Champions League returns, what should you expect? Our pick of the matches sees PSG face Borussia Dortmund and Peter Rutzler is on hand to explain why the French side aren't the one you remember from last year

Host: Tim Spiers

Producers: Mike Zimmerman and Abi Paterson

Exec Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Are Manchester United in crisis? Sep 18, 2023

Welcome to the Daily Football Briefing; all the football news you need to know to start your day.

Today:

Are Manchester United in crisis? Laurie Whitwell on the status of the club.

Why are Chelsea’s fans booing their team off? Simon Johnson discusses their struggles.

And why did Mikel Arteta drop Aaron Ramsdale? Jordan Campbell talks about the goalkeeping change.

Host: Tim Spiers

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Jadon Sancho banished by Manchester United? Sep 15, 2023

Welcome to the Daily Football Briefing; all the football news you need to know to start your day.

Today:

What now for Jadon Sancho at Manchester United? Laurie Whitwell tell us the latest.

What is driving De Zerbi’s revolution at Brighton? Andy Naylor spoke to the Italian manager.

What does CEO change mean at Arsenal? David Ornstein on the front office news.

Host: Adam Leventhal

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Who is the 16-year-old Barcelona winger breaking records with Spain? Sep 14, 2023

Today:

Who is the 16-year-old Barcelona winger breaking records with Spain? Dermot Corrigan is on hand to tell us all about Lamine Yamal

Why is Richarlison seeking psychological help? Tim Spiers is our Tottenham reporter and has the details

Do resurgent Liverpool fear losing Jurgen Klopp to Germany? Liverpool correspondent James Pearce discusses Klopp's options

Host: Michael Bailey

Producers: Mike Zimmerman and Abi Paterson

Exec Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Does Jadon Sancho have a future at Manchester United? Sep 13, 2023

Today:

Does Jadon Sancho have a future at Manchester United? Football news reporter Dan Sheldon picks up the story

Why is Leonardo Bonucci suing Juventus? Italian football correspondent James Horncastle explains what is going on

What has US coaching legend Bruce Arena done to get suspended, resign and see his team refuse to train? MLS reporter Tom Bogert has been following the New England Revolution's revolution

Host: Michael Bailey

Producers: Mike Zimmerman and Abi Paterson

Exec Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Why has Paul Pogba been provisionally suspended from football? Sep 12, 2023

Today:

Why has Paul Pogba been provisionally suspended from football? James Horncastle is our Italian football expert and has the details.

Will Julian Nagelsmann be Germany’s next manager? Raphael Honigstein brings us the continued reaction to the news.

Can Scotland finally topple old rivals England tonight? Jordan Campbell is at Hampden for the 150 year anniversary of football's first international match.

Host: Tim Spiers

Producers: Abi Paterson and Mike Zimmerman

Exec Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Germany sacks Flick, Rubiales resigns and England underwhelms Sep 11, 2023

Welcome to the Daily Football Briefing; all the football news you need to know to start your day.

Today:

Who will replace Hansi Flick as Germany coach? Seb Stafford-Bloor on the fallout.

Why did it take so long for Rubiales to resign? Tomas Hill Lopez-Menchero has the latest.

And is there reason to worry about England’s underwhelming performance against Ukraine? Tim Spiers was in Poland for the match.

Host: Mike Zimmermann

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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England prepares for Ukraine, Salah stays put and latest on Antony Sep 08, 2023

Welcome to the Daily Football Briefing; all the football news you need to know to start your day.

Today:

No Saudi move for Salah as the Kingdom’s transfer window closes. Oli Kay reflects on the Saudi window.

We assess England’s selection issues before facing Ukraine. Tim Spiers is in Poland for the match.

And we outline the latest situation on Manchester United’s Anthony. Mark Critchley has the latest details.

Host: Adam Leventhal

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Ben Green

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Is the Ballon d'Or Lionel Messi's to lose? Sep 07, 2023

Today:

Can anyone beat Lionel Messi to the men’s Ballon d’Or? Felipe Cardenas assesses the Argentinian's competition for the men's prize.

What has happened to Hugo Lloris? James Maw discusses the options the Tottenham keeper has for his future.

After a difficult start to the season, what’s gone wrong for Newcastle United? Jacob Whitehead has been writing on why things have not started smoothly at the club.

Host: Michael Bailey

Producers: Michael Zimmerman and Abi Paterson

Exec Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Is Mo Salah’s Liverpool exit inevitable? Sep 06, 2023

Today:

Is Mo Salah’s Liverpool exit inevitable? Simon Hughes certainly thinks so and explains why.

With Jorge Vilda sacked, what next for Spain’s world champions? Meg Linehan brings us up to date on the latest development in this saga

What happened at Mason Greenwood’s Getafe unveiling? Guillermo Rai was in the outskirts of Madrid to watch.

Host: Michael Bailey

Producers: Michael Zimmerman and Abi Paterson

Exec Producer: Iain Macintosh

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What does Jordan Henderson think about the criticism of his move to Saudi Arabia? Sep 05, 2023

Today:

Jordan Henderson speaks to The Athletic about his controversial transfer to the Saudi Pro League. David Ornstein and Adam Crafton sat down with the former Liverpool captain to discuss everything from his Liverpool exit, accusations he only went for the money, and going from wearing rainbow laces to representing the Saudi league. Adam Crafton joins to bring the details of the conversation.

Who can stop Manchester City winning the title this season? Sam Lee suggests that the only team that can hinder the reigning Champions is, well, themselves.

And are Borussia Dortmund in crisis? Seb Stafford-Bloor has been watching the team closely as they struggle at the start of the season.

Host: Tim Spiers

Producer: Abi Paterson

Exec Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Manchester United lose on the road again, Liverpool roll over Aston Villa, and is Jude Bellingham Real Madrid's new hero? Sep 04, 2023

Today:

Two defeats from four matches - what’s going wrong with Manchester United? Carl Anka was at the Emirates and brings his assessment on the Red Devils' stuttering start to the season.

How did Liverpool roll over Aston Villa? With 10 points from a possible 12, James Pearce tells us all about the way Jurgen Klopp's men have overcome a tricky fixture list so far.

Do Real Madrid have a new hero? Five goals in four league matches says that Jude Bellingham is already cementing his status in La Liga. Guillermo Rai has been watching the young Englishman.

Host: Tim Spiers

Producer: Abi Paterson

Exec Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Mo Salah’s future, United get Amrabat and Spurs get their top target Sep 02, 2023

Welcome to a special Deadline Day episode of the Daily Football Briefing; all the football news you need to know to start your day.

Today, David Ornstein tells us:

Can Salah still move to Saudi?

Has Manchester United found their midfield linchpin?

Did Spurs do enough in the window?

Host: Mike Zimmermann

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Liverpool's transfer business, Newcastle's UCL draw and England squad call-ups Sep 01, 2023

Could Mo Salah leave Liverpool on Deadline Day? David Ornstein has the latest.

Who got the best Champions League draw? Laurie Whitwell looks at the “group of death”.

Why Sterling is out, and Nketiah in for England? Liam Twomey on Garth Southgate’s call-ups.

Host: Adam Leventhal

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Barcelona starlet to Brighton, Chelsea to sign Man City youngster, and Nunes to leave Wolves Aug 31, 2023

Today:

Where is Barcelona youngster Ansu Fati heading to? Pol Ballus tells us about the player Brighton might be getting in on loan

Why are Chelsea signing one of Manchester City’s rising stars? Simon Johnson has the latest on Chelsea's incomings and outgoings

What changed to take Matheus Nunes to the brink of joining the Premier League champions? Sam Lee tells us why Man City worked so hard to get the Wolves player.

Host: Michael Bailey

Producers: Abi Paterson and Michael Zimmerman

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Manchester United look for a left back, Brennan Johnson is in demand, and Romelu Lukaku reunites with Jose Mourinho Aug 30, 2023

Today:

Is Cucurella the answer for Manchester United? Laurie Whitwell brings us up to date on the latest transfer news including their search for a midfielder and left back.

Where next for Brennan Johnson? With the Forest youngster in high demand, Paul Taylor tell us more about who would like to sign him.

What awaits Romelu Lukaku in Rome? As the Chelsea striker rejoins Jose Mourinho in the Italian capital, James Horncastle has the details of how that move happened including a private jet journey with an unexpected pilot.

Host: Michael Bailey

Producer: Abi Paterson

Exec Producer: Iain Macintosh

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One in one out at Manchester City, Kudus joins West Ham, and the latest twists in Spain's scandal Aug 29, 2023

It could be one in one out at Man City - but who’s gone on strike? David Ornstein has the latest on Matheus Nunes' future

How good is West Ham’s new big money signing? Jon Mackenzie brings the kudos on Kudus

And what is the latest remarkable twist in Spanish football’s neverending scandal? Dermot Corrigan is camped out at a church in south Spain to bring us up to date on where we're at with Luis Rubiales' future

Host: Tim Spiers

Producer: Abi Paterson

Exec Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Liverpool saved by Nuñez, Arsenal's tinkering tactics and Rubiales suspended by FIFA Aug 28, 2023

Has Darwin Nuñez kick-started his Liverpool career? James Pearce was at St. James’ Park for Liverpool’s crazy comeback.

Is Arteta trying to change too much at Arsenal? Nick Miller on the tinkering of the Gunners’ tactics.

What next for the Spanish football federation? Dermot Corrigan explains the suspension of Luis Rubiales.

Host: Tim Spiers

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Salah entertains Saudi, Lukaku's future at Chelsea and Juventus back on top? Aug 25, 2023

Welcome to the Daily Football Briefing; all the football news you need to know to start your day.

Today:

Is Mo Salah leaving Liverpool for Saudi Arabia? James Pearce has the latest.

Could Romelu Lukaku play for Chelsea this season? Liam Twomey on the best possible outcome.

Are Juventus back? James Horncastle is convinced this might be Juve’s year.

Host: Abi Paterson

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Spain's scandal, Everton's (lack of) investment, and Aston Villa are in the groove Aug 24, 2023

Welcome to the Daily Football Briefing; all the football news you need to know to start your day.

Today:

What’s the latest on the scandal that has split Spain? As the controversy surrounding RFEF President Luis Rubiales escalates, Pat Jennings brings us up to speed with the story.

How’s Everton’s hunt for investment going? Matt Slater brings the latest setback for the Toffees

Are Aston Villa back in the groove? Jacob Tanswell was in Edinburgh to watch Villa in action

Host: Abi Paterson

Producer: Abi Paterson

Exec Producer: Iain Macintosh

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City without Pep, Chelsea loan to Newcastle, and where will Gravenberch end up Aug 23, 2023

Welcome to the Daily Football Briefing; all the football news you need to know to start your day.

Today:

How will Manchester City cope without Pep Guardiola? Sam Lee has the details on the Spaniard's back surgery

What type of player are Newcastle getting in Lewis Hall? Simon Johnson tells us more about Chelsea's highly rated academy talent

Could Bayern Munich’s promising midfielder Ryan Gravenberch be on his way out? Rafael Honigstein brings us the latest news on where the Dutch player may end up

Host: Reuben Pinder

Producer: Abi Paterson

Exec Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Why Manchester United have performed a U-turn on Mason Greenwood Aug 22, 2023

Welcome to the Daily Football Briefing; all the football news you need to know to start your day.

Today:

Why have Manchester United performed a U-Turn on Mason Greenwood? Adam Crafton continues to lead the way with investigative journalism

How did Arsenal make it two wins from two? Jordan Campbell was at Selhurst Park to watch the Gunners

How did AC Milan’s new Captain America do on his debut? James Horncastle was watching Christian Pulisic in Bologna

Host: Tim Spiers

Producer: Abi Paterson

Exec Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Spain win World Cup, Chelsea lose to Hammers and what’s wrong with Man Utd? Aug 21, 2023

Welcome to the Daily Football Briefing; all the football news you need to know to start your day.

Today:

How did Spain become the best team in women’s football? Laia Cervello Herrero on their development and road to the top.

Abi Paterson tells us what’s next for the Lionesses.

Are Chelsea having growing pains under Pochettino? Simon Johnson gives his explanation to the slow start for the Blues.

Is it too early for Manchester United fans to panic? Laurie Whitwell details United’s struggles.

Host: Tim Spiers

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Is Endo Liverpool’s midfield solution? Aug 18, 2023

Welcome to the Daily Football Briefing; all the football news you need to know to start your day.

Today:

Is Endo Liverpool’s midfield solution? Seb Stafford Bloor has watched the Japanese player in the Bundesliga and tells us more about him.

Why has Michael Olise opted against joining Chelsea? David Ornstein brings us the latest, whilst Matt Woosnam gives us the Palace perspective.

And on a weekend of two finals, will it be glory for both England and Lionel Messi? Abi Paterson is in Sydney to preview the World Cup final and Felipe Cardenas is in Miami for Lionel Messi's first Inter Miami press conference

Host: Michael Bailey

Producer: Abi Paterson

Exec Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Mason Greenwood: What's next? Aug 17, 2023

Welcome to the Daily Football Briefing; all the football news you need to know to start your day.

Today:

Manchester United tell senior staff that Mason Greenwood will return to the squad. Adam Crafton has the major story.

After reaching the World Cup final, how will England approach the challenge of Spain? Chloe Morgan on the Lionesses historic trip to the final.

Manchester City adds a fourth piece of silverware to the cabinet. Mark Critchley reports from the UEFA Super Cup.

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What awaits Neymar as he swaps Paris for Saudi Arabia? Aug 16, 2023

Welcome to the Daily Football Briefing; all the football news you need to know to start your day.

Today:

What awaits Neymar as he swaps Paris for Saudi Arabia? Andrew Hankinson reflects on his experience in the Kingdom whilst Peter Rutzler mulls on how Neymar will be remembered by PSG fans

Why are Chelsea at it again, as they pursue yet another Premier League star? Matt Woosnam prepares for Palace losing Michael Olise to the big spending Blues

And in the World Cup what do England and Australia make of this so called sporting rivalry? Chloe Morgan is out in Sydney ahead of the semi final.

Host: Michael Bailey

Producer: Abi Paterson

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Liverpool lose another transfer target to Chelsea Aug 15, 2023

Welcome to the Daily Football Briefing; all the football news you need to know to start your day.

Today:

Why have Liverpool missed out to Chelsea on yet another transfer? David Ornstein has the details.

Why has Roberto Mancini left Italy? James Horncastle tells all

And what should we expect from the World Cup semi finals? Michael Cox is in Sydney following all the action

Host: Tim Spiers

Producer: Abi Paterson

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Chelsea reach £115m Moises Caicedo transfer agreement with Brighton Aug 14, 2023

Welcome to the Daily Football Briefing; all the football news you need to know to start your day.

Today:

How did Chelsea win the battle for Moises Caicedo? David Ornstein has the inside details.

Is Kylian Mbappe staying at PSG? Peter Rutzler on what changed over the weekend.

And is Munich going mad for Harry Kane? Seb Stafford-Bloor was in Munich for Kane’s first match with Bayern.

Host: Tim Spiers

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Harry Kane agrees to join Bayern Munich Aug 11, 2023

Welcome to the Daily Football Briefing; all the football news you need to know to start your day.

Today:

What happens now as Harry Kane says yes to Bayern Munich? David Ornstein, Raphael Honigstein and Tim Spiers have the seismic transfer covered from all angles.

And how will Real Madrid deal with their major injury blow? Dermot Corrigan on possible replacement targets.

Host: Michael Bailey

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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What is Harry Maguire's Manchester United legacy? Aug 10, 2023

Welcome to the Daily Football Briefing; all the football news you need to know to start your day.

Today:

How will Harry Maguire be remembered at Manchester United? Carl Anka on his complicated career.

When will Liverpool’s complete the work to their midfield engine room? Andy Jones talks defensive issues on Merseyside.

And what are the Premier League cracking down as the new season approaches? Philip Buckingham gets you ready for the new rule changes ahead of the 23/24 season.

Host: Adam Leventhal

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Why are Wolves moving on from Lopetegui? Aug 09, 2023

Welcome to the Daily Football Briefing; all the football news you need to know to start your day.

Today:

Why are Wolves changing manager just days before the new season? Tim Spiers with the latest movement at Molineux.

How will Chelsea deal with their latest injury blow? Simon Johnson on finding a replacement for Nkunku.

And what are Manchester United planning to do with their two West Ham transfer targets? Laurie Whitwell has the transfer insight on Harry Maguire and Scott McTominay.

Host: Michael Bailey

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Is the Harry Kane saga close to an end? Aug 08, 2023

Welcome to the Daily Football Briefing; all the football news you need to know to start your day.

Today:

Is there an end in sight to the Harry Kane transfer saga? David Ornstein has the latest developments.

Why have West Ham taken two months to sign a player? Seb Stafford-Bloor details the issues between David Moyes and Tim Steidten.

And how can England improve in the Women’s World Cup? Charlotte Harpur gives her insight.

Host: Tim Spiers

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Will Arsenal challenge for the Premier League title? Aug 07, 2023

Welcome to the Daily Football Briefing; all the football news you need to know to start your day.

Today:

Will Arsenal challenge for the Premier League title? Art de Roche was at Wembley and gives his thoughts.

Does Manchester City have enough first team squad depth? Mark Critchley has the answer.

Has Harry Kane played his last game in a Spurs shirt? Adam Crafton tells us what he thinks.

And after the US were dumped out, who are the new favourites to win the Women’s World Cup? From Melbourne, it’s Meg Linehan.

Host: Tim Spiers

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Why is Tom Brady an owner of Birmingham City? Aug 04, 2023

Welcome to the Daily Football Briefing; all the football news you need to know to start your day.

Today:

Why is NFL legend Tom Brady getting involved with English second tier team Birmingham City? Gregg Evans has the details.

Germany are out of the Women’s World Cup … what happened - and how might England benefit? Abi Paterson with the latest from Australia and New Zealand.

How has Mauricio Pochettino changed things & what next in the transfer market? Matt Davies-Adams on Chelsea’s improvements.

Host: Adam Leventhal

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Ben Green

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Is Josko Gvardiol worth €90m? Aug 03, 2023

Today:

Josko Gvardiol is set to join Man City after RB Leipzig accepted a €90m bid for the 21 year old, but is he worth it? Seb Stafford Bloor tells why he just might be

What have we learned from Liverpool’s time in Singapore? Andy Jones brings us the latest from the Reds' tour

And as Gigi Buffon retires, how will the goalkeeping giant be remembered? James Horncastle reminisces

Host: Michael Bailey

Producer: Abi Paterson

Executive Producer: Ben Green

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Is Dembélé leaving Barcelona for PSG? Aug 02, 2023

Welcome to the Daily Football Briefing; all the football news you need to know to start your day.

Today:

Why would Paris St. Germain’s interest in Ousmane Dembele be proving so complicated? Pol Ballús on the negotiations.

What is powering Bayern Munich’s Premier League transfer pursuits? Raphael Honigstein dives into Bayern’s financials.

And could we still see an England versus USA World Cup final? Charlotte Harpur has the latest on the 2023 Women’s World Cup.

Host: Michael Bailey

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Ben Green

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What next for Kylian Mbappe? Aug 01, 2023

Welcome to the Daily Football Briefing; all the football news you need to know to start your day.

Today:

July 31st was an important date and another chapter in the Kylian Mbappe saga. But why? Peter Rutzler explains all

And Mbappe's not the only one with a question mark over his future, Charlie Eccleshare has the latest from the talks between Bayern Munich and Tottenham

Why do Arsenal want Brentford goalkeeper David Raya? A question many are pondering and Art de Roche answers

Are the USA in danger of exiting the World Cup at the group stage? It's not impossible but, as Meg Linehan tells us, the USWNT only have one mission

Host: Tim Spiers

Producer: Abi Paterson

Executive Producer: Ben Green

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Is Rasmus Højlund ready for the Premier League at Manchester United? Jul 31, 2023

Welcome to the Daily Football Briefing; all the football news you need to know to start your day.

Today:

Is Manchester United’s new striker ready for the Premier League? Laurie Whitwell on Rasmus Højlund’s arrival to Old Trafford.

And after being fined by UEFA, could Chelsea face sanctions from the Premier League? Liam Twomey lays out what’s next.

Host: Tim Spiers

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Ben Green

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Does David Beckham think it’s time for new owners at Manchester United? Jul 28, 2023

Welcome to the Daily Football Briefing; all the football news you need to know to start your day.

Today:

Does David Beckham think it’s time for new owners at Manchester United? David Ornstein has the exclusive interview.

What will PSG do to fill a Messi AND Mbappe shaped hole? Peter Rutzler on his Harry Kane could move to Paris.

And are co-hosts Australia heading for a shock early exit from the Women’s World Cup? Chloe Morgan is on the ground.

Host: Tim Spiers

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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What does Joe Lewis's indictment mean for Tottenham Hotspur? Jul 27, 2023

Welcome to the Daily Football Briefing; all the football news you need to know to start your day.

Today:

What does Joe Lewis's indictment mean for Tottenham Hotspur? Matt Slater is here to make everything clearer

What is going on at Wolves? Our own Tim Spiers has the lowdown

With European Champions England still not firing on all cylinders, Charlotte Harpur tells us what to expect from England's match against Denmark

Host: Reuben Pinder

Producer: Abi Paterson

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

Click here to get a subscription to The Athletic.

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Is Fabinho's move to Saudi Arabia in jeopardy? Jul 26, 2023

Welcome to the Daily Football Briefing; all the football news you need to know to start your day.

Today:

Is Fabinho's move to Saudi Arabia in jeopardy? David Ornstein brings us the latest and an important update on his dogs.

Who is the new kid on Manchester United's block? Carl Anka tells us to not compare him to Erling Haaland

Why has it all gone wrong for Norway at the World Cup? With the details is our Athletic Women's Football Pod host, Michelle Owen

Host: Iain Macintosh

Producer: Abi Paterson

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

Click here to get a subscription to The Athletic.

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Will Kylian Mbappe head to Saudi Arabia? Jul 25, 2023

Welcome to the Daily Football Briefing; all the football news you need to know to start your day.

Today:

Will Kylian Mbappe move to Saudi Arabia and become the world’s most expensive player? Adam Crafton has the latest insight.

How did Jude Bellingham’s first Real Madrid appearance go? Mario Cortegana was in California to watch his debut.

Why is Wilfried Zaha moving to Turkey? Dom Fifield on Zaha’s pursuit of Champions League football.

Host: Tim Spiers

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

Click here to get a subscription to The Athletic.

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Should Chelsea fans be excited about the new campaign? Jul 24, 2023

Welcome to the Daily Football Briefing; all the football news you need to know to start your day.

Today:

Pochettino appears to have got Chelsea playing again, Liam Twomey talks us through how the Blues are shaping up ahead of the new season.

Last week Bruno Fernandes was named as Manchester United’s new captain, but is he the right choice? Laurie Whitwell has the details.

Paul Tenorio has been following every moment of Messi’s Miami move, he dives into the impact the Argentine has had so far.

Host: Tim Spiers

Producer: Jay Beale

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

Click here to get a subscription to The Athletic.

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What went wrong for Sadio Mane at Bayern Munich? Jul 21, 2023

Welcome to the Daily Football Briefing; all the football news you need to know to start your day.

Today:

What went wrong for Sadio Mane at Bayern? Seb Stafford-Bloor tells us where the fractured relationship started.

Harvey Barnes is on the move to Newcastle. Rob Tanner makes sense of the transfer fee.

The Women’s World Cup is off and running! Michelle Owen joins for a check-in of the first match day.

Host: Iain Macintosh

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

Click here to get a subscription to The Athletic.

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Has Jordan Henderson tainted his legacy? Jul 20, 2023

Welcome to the Daily Football Briefing; all the football news you need to know to start your day.

Today:

Jordan Henderson’s move to Saudi Arabia is now all but done. Caoimhe O’Neill talks about his tainted legacy.

What’s next for former Manchester City defender Benjamin Mendy? Laura Williamson on his future.

Host: Michael Bailey

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

Click here to get a subscription to The Athletic.

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Is Chelsea's squad... too small? Jul 19, 2023

Welcome to the Daily Football Briefing; all the football news you need to know to start your day.

Today:

Chelsea had a really bad Tuesday. Simon Johnson tells us why.

Tottenham started life under Ange Postecoglou with a loss, so what's changed? Charlie Eccleshare has the details

And Liverpool might need to find some new midfielders sharpish. Andy Jones has dived into the data to tell us who he'd choose.

Host: Michael Bailey

Producer: Abi Paterson

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

Click here to get a subscription to The Athletic.

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What’s the latest on Marcus Rashford’s future at Manchester United? Jul 18, 2023

Welcome to the Daily Football Briefing; all the football news you need to know to start your day.

Today:

Marcus Rashford is set to sign a 5-year contract with Manchester United. David Ornstein has the latest.

What’s happening with Bernardo Silva? Will he still be a City player next season? Sam Lee on the transfer movement.

The Australian women’s team have criticised the gender disparity in prize money offered by the 2023 Women’s World Cup. Steph Yang tells us if FIFA will listen.

Host: Tim Spiers

Producer: Mike Zimmermann

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

Click here to get a subscription to The Athletic.

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Messi chose Miami…. but why? Jul 17, 2023

Welcome to the first episode of the Daily Football Briefing; all the football news you need to know to start your day.

Today:

Why did Lionel Messi choose to sign for Inter Miami? We speak to Paul Tenorio about a surprisingly complex transfer deal.

Andre Onana is set to sign for Manchester United...but is Harry Maguire about to leave? Laurie Whitwell tells all

And with the Women's World Cup just days away, Meg Linehan joins from New Zealand to bring a sense of what to expect

Host: Tim Spiers

Producer: Abi Paterson

Executive Producer: Iain Macintosh

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Where do Spurs go from here? Apr 28, 2023

Dan Barnes presents the round-up of the biggest stories from the world of football on Friday April 28 2023:

• Charlie Eccleshare answers where do Spurs go from here?

• After being battered by Newcastle, Greg O'Keeffe on if there is any hope for Everton’s chances of Premier League survival?

• Are Southampton sinking like a stone while Bournemouth sail to safety? Jacob Tanswell on the relegation battle.

Produced by Mike Zimmermann

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Is that it for the Premier League title race? Apr 26, 2023

Michael Bailey presents the round-up of the biggest stories from the world of football on Thursday April 27 2023:

• The Athletic's Arsenal writer Art De Roche and Man City writer Sam Lee consider the state of the title race after City's 4-1 win over Arsenal at the Etihad

• Can things get any worse for Chelsea? Liam Twomey answers that as well as providing the latest on Chelsea's move for Mauricio Pochettino

• Paul Taylor analyses the importance of Nottingham Forest's 3-1 win over Brighton and the impact it could have on the battle for survival in the Premier League

Produced by Guy Clarke

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Will Man City wrap up the title tonight? Apr 26, 2023

Reuben Pinder presents the round-up of the biggest stories from the world of football on Wednesday April 26 2023:

• Man City face Arsenal in a huge match-up in the Premier League title race - Sam Lee assesses whether City would effectively wrap up the title with a victory over the Gunners.

• Phil Hay on Leeds United’s 1-1 draw with Leicester City and the implications on their hopes of avoiding relegation.

• Simon Johnson gives the latest on injuries to Chelsea players Reece James and Mason Mount.

Produced by Mike Stavrou

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Would Mauricio Pochettino be the right man to fix Chelsea? Apr 25, 2023

Charlie Eccleshare presents the round-up of the biggest stories from the world of football on Tuesday April 25 2023:

• Simon Johnson on whether Mauricio Pochettino be the right man to fix Chelsea.

• Can Spurs’ latest interim head coach Ryan Mason salvage their season? Jack Pitt-Brooke has the answers.

• William Saliba is out against Manchester City. Sam Lee talks about how Arsenal stop Erling Haaland.

Produced by Mike Zimmermann

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Where do Tottenham go from here? Apr 24, 2023

How Do Spurs Recover From This? Jack Pitt Brooke runs the rule over a disastrous day for Tottenham

Can Manchester United stop rivals Manchester City from winning the treble? Carl Anka worries that it may be very tricky

And How Was Saturday Night In Wrexham? Richard Sutcliffe was there

Produced by Abi Paterson

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How do Manchester United bounce back after their dismal defeat to Sevilla? Apr 21, 2023

Tim Spiers presents the round-up of the biggest stories from the world of football on Friday April 21 2023:

• How do Man United bounce back after their dismal defeat to Sevilla? Laure Whitwell explains.

• James Horncastle and Jack Pitt-Brooke dive into the latest on Juventus' penalty and what that could mean for Spurs.

• Jordan Campbell on whether Arsenal can avoid complacency when the Premier League title race continues tonight.

Produced by Mike Zimmermann

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Is this Manchester City’s year in the Champions League? Apr 20, 2023

Luke Bosher presents the round-up of the biggest stories from the world of football on Thursday April 20 2023:

• Sam Lee weighs up whether this could indeed be the year Manchester City finally win the Champions League, after their aggregate win over Bayern Munich in the quarter-finals

• James Horncastle reviews Inter Milan’s entertaining draw with Benfica, which has set up a Milan derby in the Champions League semi-finals

• Chloe Morgan analyses the potential impact of an injury to England and Arsenal star Leah Williamson after she was forced off the pitch through injury on Wednesday night

• Laurie Whitwell is on hand to look ahead to a huge week for Manchester United, which includes pivotal clashes against Sevilla, Brighton and Spurs

Produced by Mike Stavrou

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Is Chelsea's season over? Apr 19, 2023

Adam Leventhal presents the round-up of the biggest stories from the world of football on Wednesday April 19 2023:

• After Chelsea are eliminated from the Champions League by current champions Real Madrid, Liam Twomey analyses what is left this in this season for the Blues?

• James Horncastle reacts to AC Milan reaching the last four of the Champions League for the first time in 16 years - but will Wednesday night see Inter Milan set up an all-Milan semi-final tie?

• Can Bayern Munich pull off the impossible against Manchester City Raphael Honigstein explains as well as discussing whether Sadio Mane has a future at Bayern Munich?

• Matt Slater explains what the drop in Manchester United share price mean for their ongoing takeover process?

Produced by Guy Clarke

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Could Liverpool make a late push for the top four? Apr 18, 2023

Charlie Eccleshare presents the round-up of the biggest stories from the world of football on Tuesday April 18 2023:

• Liverpool are nine points behind Newcastle United with eight games left. James Pearce on whether they can make a late push for the top four?

• Phil Hay explains just how worried Leeds fans should be.

• Has Jose Mourinho really rediscovered his mojo? James Horncastle joins to discuss Mourinho’s renaissance in Rome.

• Chelsea have surely been this season's crisis club. Simon Johnson on whether Todd Boehly has a plan for Chelsea?

Produced by Mike Zimmermann

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Why are Arsenal wobbling….again? Apr 17, 2023

Michael Dominski presents the round-up of the biggest stories from the world of football on Monday April 17 2023:

• Arsenal have now two weeks running thrown away a 2-0 lead to draw 2-2 in the Premier League. Jordan Campbell joins to discuss what's going wrong for the Gunners

• It was another disappointing weekend for Chelsea as they fell to a 2-1 loss at home against Brighton. They need a new manager soon, but as David Ornstein tells us that process is a thorough one, but they have crossed a name off their shortlist...

• And Charlie Eccleshare shares what Daniel Levy could do to change the mood at Spurs

Produced by Abi Paterson

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How costly will Manchester United’s Sevilla collapse prove? Apr 14, 2023

Richard Amofa presents the round-up of the biggest stories from the world of football on Friday April 14 2023:

• Manchester United threw away a 2-0 lead against Sevilla in the first leg of the Europa League quarter-finals after conceding two late own goals. Laurie Whitwell reacts from Old Trafford after a damaging night where Erik ten Hag also lost players to injury and suspension.

• Cristiano Ronaldo has a new manager at Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia after the sacking of Rudi Garcia. Wael Jabir tells us it hasn't been smooth sailing for the Portuguese superstar.

• Joey D'Urso discusses the landmark ban of gambling companies on the front of shirts, as voted for by clubs in the Premier League.

Produced by Charlie Jones.

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Chelsea schooled by Real, but is there still hope? Apr 13, 2023

Daniel Barnes presents the round-up of the biggest stories from the world of football on Thursday April 13 2023:

• Real Madrid secured a commanding 2-0 win over Chelsea at the Bernabeu to put them in a strong position in their Champions League quarter-final tie. Simon Johnson dissects the action

• James Horncastle reports from San Siro on AC Milan’s 1-0 victory over Napoli in their last-eight clash

• Raphael Honigstein explains the altercation between Bayern Munich’s Sadio Mane and Leroy Sane after Tuesday’s defeat to Manchester City

• Liverpool are out of the running in the race to sign Borussia Dortmund’s Jude Bellingham. James Pearce gives the rationale behind that decision.

Produced by Mike Stavrou

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How Guardiola's City got the better of Tuchel's Bayern Apr 12, 2023

Tim Spiers presents the round-up of the biggest stories from the world of football on Wednesday April 12 2023:

• Pep Guardiola outmanoeuvred Thomas Tuchel in a thrilling battle in the quarter-finals of the Champions League. Sam Lee dissects a huge win for Manchester City over Bayern Munich

• Charlotte Harpur reacts to a damaging defeat for England’s women against Australia. Their 30-game unbeaten run under Sarina Wiegman came to an end, with the World Cup not far away

• Frank Lampard’s Chelsea take on Real Madrid in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final tie on Wednesday night. Liam Twomey dissects whether interim boss Lampard can mastermind an upset vs the reigning European champions

• Barcelona fans are singing Lionel Messi’s name at Camp Nou, but could the Argentine return to Barca in the summer? Pol Ballus gives us the latest

Produced by Mike Stavrou

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The Champions League is back. Are Manchester City hitting their stride at just the right time? Apr 11, 2023

Iain Macintosh presents the round-up of the biggest stories from the world of football on Tuesday April 11 2023:

• The Champions League is back! Manchester City take on Bayern Munich tonight in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final. Sam Lee tells us why City are hitting their stride.

• The biggest non league game in history was probably one of the best non league games in history. What does Wrexham's thrilling 3-2 win against Notts County mean?

• Rob Tanner takes us through Leicester City's managerial search, and why a Dean Smith interim appointment may come very soon.

Produced by Mike Zimmermann

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Chelsea move for Lampard & is Moyes on the brink? Apr 05, 2023

Iain Macintosh presents the round-up of the biggest stories from the world of football on Thursday April 6 2023:

• The man who broke the news of Frank Lampard's imminent return to Chelsea, David Ornstein, has the details on that deal, while The Athletic's Dom Fifield discusses whether the return of the former Blues boss could be a good thing

• Laia Cervelló Herrero is on hand to dissect the drama from Camp Nou as Barcelona crashed out of the Copa del Rey after a 4-0 second-leg defeat to bitter rivals Real Madrid

• And Roshane Thomas reflects on a shocking 5-1 loss at home to Newcastle for West Ham, which could spell big trouble for David Moyes

Produced by Mike Stavrou

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Four games without a win for Liverpool now. How much more of this can they take? Apr 04, 2023

Host Sam Lee brings you the latest news from The Athletic with everything you need to know on Wednesday April 5 2023

• James Pearce and Simon Johnson were at Stamford Bridge as Liverpool failed to win for a fourth game in a row while Chelsea adjusted to life without Graham Potter

• Paul Taylor has the latest on Steve Cooper's future as Nottingham Forest manager after their 2-1 defeat away to relegation rivals Leeds United, with former Crystal Palace manager Patrick Vieira having been linked with the role

• Dan Sheldon discusses FIFA's proposed regulation changes to the way agents will be able to operate in the transfer market having interviewed Erling Haaland's agent Rafaela Pimenta

Produced by Guy Clarke

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Chelsea chaos - was it really all Potter's fault? Apr 03, 2023

Host Joey D’Urso is joined by an array of Athletic writers to bring you the football news you need to know on Tuesday April 4 2023

• David Ornstein shares exclusive information on the chaos of Graham Potter’s reign at Chelsea - including 9-a-sides and players having to sit on the floor

• Peter Rutzler has the latest on the futures of Lionel Messi and Christophe Galtier following a second successive home defeat for PSG

• Charlie Eccleshare shares his instant reaction to Cristian Stellini’s first game in charge since the departure of Antonio Conte - a 1-1 draw with relegation-threatened Everton at Goodison Park

Produced by Mike Stavrou

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