The Tactical Preview is back and Aston Villa's clash against Arsenal is our primary focus this week.

Host Kate Mason is joined by The Athletic's data writer Thom Harris and former Arsenal midfielder Adrian Clarke to dissect where the game will be won and lost. They focus on Villa's frailties in beating the press, Arsenal's short corners and switches of play. The Athletic's Villa correspondent Jacob Tanswell also drops by to give the lowdown on Villa's midfield struggles in the defeat to Brighton.

The panel also focus on Chelsea vs Brighton, Man United vs Ipswich Town & Coventry City vs Hull City, as well as picking out the clubs who have had a quietly good transfer window.

Host: Kate Mason

Guests: Adrian Clarke, Thom Harris

Executive Producer: Guy Clarke

Producers: Mike Stavrou, Liam Warburton

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Welcome to a brand new offering on The Athletic FC Podcast as we merge with the Athletic FC Tactics Podcast.

Kate Mason, Rob Green and Liam Tharme are here to run you through the biggest matches from an analytical lens.

This week, we talk tactical trends we expect to take hold this season, while our primary focus is on the big battle at St James’ Park as Newcastle host Liverpool.

The panel also touch on champions Arsenal vs Coventry, Man City vs Bournemouth and Fulham vs Chelsea.

Host: Kate Mason

With: Rob Green and Liam Tharme

Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead

Producer: Mike Stavrou

Videographer: Lara Sinclair

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We’re bringing you a special episode of the podcast this week - it’s time to talk World Cup tactics.

We’ll dive into international tournament prep, opposition analysis and much more!

With a very special guest - assistant coach of the Canada men’s national team, Ewan Sharp.

Host: Michael Bailey

Guests: Joshua Kloke, Liam Tharme & Ewan Sharp

Producer: Mike Stavrou

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With the World Cup right around the corner, we’re discussing the most tactically interesting teams at this summer’s tournament.

Plus, we’ll assess how the favourites are looking — and… how to build a successful World Cup squad.

Host: Michael Bailey

Guests: Michael Cox, Conor O’Neill & Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

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What can we learn from the tactics employed in 2025/26?

Are we too reliant on set pieces (even employing MMA fighters to help!) and how will that shape recruitment this summer?

Plus what makes the ‘perfect ball’ and we look ahead to the Champions League final.

Host: Michael Bailey

With: Michael Cox & Liam Tharme

Producer: Si Watts

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Pep Guardiola will leave Manchester City this summer after 10 trophy-laden years.

So how did he change the landscape of Premier League tactics?

And what comes next for Man City?

Host: Michael Bailey

Guests: Michael Cox, Mark Carey & Thom Harris

Producer: Mike Stavrou

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It’s that time of the year, already — our very special alternative Premier League Team of the Season.

Who has impressed us from the sides in the bottom half of the table?

Host: Michael Bailey

Guests: Michael Cox, Mark Carey & Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou, Simon Watts

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This week, we’re reviewing a compelling set of Champions League semi-finals.

From Arsenal’s defensive solidity, to the most complete side in Europe, Paris Saint-Germain.

Host: Michael Bailey

Guests: Michael Cox, Mark Carey & Liam Tharme

Producer: Mike Stavrou

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