The Athletic FC Podcast

Adam Crafton, a US-based football journalist, and Matt Slater, a former BBC contributor, dive into the changing landscape of football viewing. They discuss the complexities of broadcasting rights in the US versus the UK and the implications of the 3pm blackout. Crafton highlights economic pressures leading to illegal streaming, while Slater predicts that by 2035, fans will experience hyper-personalized viewing with tech innovations. The duo debates the viability of a Premier League direct-to-consumer platform amidst traditional broadcasters' dominance.

Join football savants Tim Spiers and Megan Feringa as they dissect the stunning twists of the current Premier League season. Tim provides insights on Sunderland's surprising rise due to smart recruitment and defensive solidity, while Megan emphasizes the team's sustainability options. They delve into Chelsea's inconsistent form under Enzo Maresca and question Liverpool's tactical struggles. Plus, there's talk of Wolves' dire straits and Newcastle's decline, leaving fans pondering the league’s unpredictability.

Mirwan Surwaso, CEO of Como 1907, shares insights into the club's rapid ascent from Serie D to Serie A. He reveals how a shift from a content strategy to a commercial model fueled their growth. Key topics include their data-driven recruitment approach, Cesc Fabregas's impactful role in decision-making, and plans to position Como as a tourism 'theme park.' Surwaso also discusses stadium renovations, lifestyle branding, and the exciting prospect of playing a match abroad against AC Milan.

Adam Wharton, a promising midfielder for Crystal Palace and the England national team, shares his insights with David Ornstein. He candidly discusses his pride in being from Blackburn, while also embracing comparisons to top talents like Messi. Wharton reflects on managing transfer speculation and his hopes for World Cup selection. He reveals his self-critical nature, the pressure of fame, and how the confidence within Crystal Palace is growing. Wharton also praises his manager's approach and emphasizes the importance of fit when considering future club moves.

Mark Critchley, a seasoned football journalist focused on Manchester United, and Oli Kay, a tactical analyst, dive into Ruben Amorim's tumultuous first year at the club. They explore the mixed reception to his appointment, his initial structural changes, and the fallout from a punishing loss to Brighton. The panel discusses Amorim’s brutal honesty, contrasting his communication style with more calculated managers. They also touch on the need for consistency and the significance of upcoming fixtures in assessing the team's direction amidst a challenging rebuild.

Adam Crafton, an experienced football journalist for The Athletic, and Jack Pitt-Brooke, a keen football writer, dive into Manchester City's impressive 3-0 win over Liverpool. They discuss Pep Guardiola's 1,000th game and the tactical evolution of City, especially Jeremy Doku's standout performance. The duo evaluates whether City can sustain a title challenge, explores midfield options in Rodri's absence, and debates City’s psychological edge over rivals, while pondering Liverpool's declining title hopes and the need for consistent performances.

Delve into the underground world of illegal streaming and its impact on football. Discover how millions gravitate toward cheaper, pirated options and the legal risks involved. Hear about police raids targeting piracy networks and how organized crime is interlinked with these activities. Learn about methods pirates use to capture live feeds and the evolving battle against them. Could innovative broadcasting models like 'Premflix' lure fans away from illegal streams? Explore the murky waters of cyber risk and consumer attitudes while questioning the future of sports broadcasting.

Andy Jones, a Liverpool-focused football journalist, and Jordan Campbell, a Manchester City analyst, join to tackle the high-stakes clash between the two giants. They dive into Wirtz's ideal positioning in Liverpool’s lineup and how to effectively neutralize Haaland's threat. The conversation shifts to tactical tweaks, with insights on Foden's evolving role amidst City's player rotations. Predictions for the match and implications for the title race round out the discussion, making it a must-listen for football fans!

In this discussion, Michael Cox, a tactical analyst, dives into the Premier League's dominance in the Champions League, questioning if it disrupts competitive balance. James Horncastle, a football journalist specializing in Serie A, highlights Real Madrid's resilience amidst English power. They explore the new league format's influence on match variety and the significance of early big matches. Additionally, they discuss the talent drain from other leagues, the unpredictability of knockouts, and the global appeal of Premier League football.

James Pearce, an experienced Liverpool correspondent, and Tomás Hill López-Menchero, a La Liga expert, dive deep into Liverpool's standout Champions League win over Real Madrid. They explore how this victory might reignite Liverpool’s season, while James praises the team’s organization and intensity. Tomás discusses Real Madrid's underwhelming performance and tensions under their new coach, Xabi Alonso. The duo also highlights standout players like Conor Bradley and assesses new signings, setting the stage for a crucial upcoming clash with Manchester City.