The Athletic FC Podcast The Athletic

Back in January, Xavi announced he would be stepping down as Barcelona boss at the end of the season, citing the role as a “cruel job” that “wears you down”.

But last week, he and Barca changed their minds - yet another twist in a rollercoaster season for the Catalans.

So, why did Barca perform a dramatic U-turn on Xavi’s future? 

How strong is his position now?

And can Xavi be backed in this summer’s transfer market to the level he now expects? 

Host: Ayo Akinwolere
With: Pol Ballús and Tomás Hill López-Menchero
Producer: Mike Stavrou
Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead
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Mohamed Salah’s heated exchange with Jurgen Klopp last weekend left many questioning whether the forward would join his manager in leaving Liverpool this summer.

Then as The Athletic revealed on Monday, Liverpool expect Salah to stay this summer and are planning on him being part of their squad for next season.

So, with his future back on the agenda, what are Liverpool’s options with or without their iconic forward?

Host: Ayo Akinwolere
With: David Ornstein and James Pearce
Producer: Mike Stavrou
Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead
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Arsenal were too much for Tottenham in yesterday’s North London derby, running out 3-2 winners at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
After the games, Spurs boss Ange Postecoglou said his team needs to deal with the “details” to be contenders.
So what exactly are the fine margins they are missing? 
And will it be enough to get to the next step and challenge next season?
Host: Ayo Akinwolere
With: Jack Pitt-Brooke and Seb Stafford-Bloor
Producer: Guy Clarke
Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead
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It’s matchday 35 in the Premier League and it’s a huge north London derby as Arsenal go to Spurs hoping to stay in the title race.

Elsewhere, Man City go to Nottingham Forest and West Ham host Liverpool.

Host: Adam Leventhal
With: Tim Spiers, Charlie Eccleshare and Jay Harris
Producer: Mike Stavrou
Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead
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Almost three months on from Jurgen Klopp announcing his intention to stand down, Liverpool have earmarked the man they’d like to replace him.
So why do Liverpool want Feyenoord’s Arne Slot?
And is he the right personality to replace Klopp at Anfield? 
Host: Ayo Akinwolere
With: David Ornstein and Adam Crafton
Producer: Guy Clarke
Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead
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Playing an exciting brand of attacking football it’s no wonder Simone Inzaghi is now being linked to high-profile managerial jobs in England and abroad.

But is he better off staying in Italy and a resurgent Serie A? 

Or does uncertainty around finance and the ownership at Inter mean now is the time for a new challenge?

Host: Ayo Akinwolere
With: James Horncastle
Producer: Mike Stavrou
Executive Producer: Adey Moorhead
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