The Athletic FC Podcast

Why Champions League qualification isn't a ‘golden ticket’

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Episode notes

Last night, Aston Villa stumbled in pursuit of securing a top four place in the Premier League losing 4-1 away to Manchester City.

But as Newcastle have shown this season, despite the money in brings in, qualifying for Europe puts a huge strain on smaller squads especially when financial rules make it harder to spend.

And as Ange Postecoglou commented in the week, Champions League qualification doesn't necessarily provide what clubs are seeking, if they're unable to push on and compete.

Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Tottenham writer Jack Pitt-Brooke, Aston Villa writer Jacob Tanswell and Newcastle United writer Chris Waugh to discuss how the Premier League's growing collection of upwardly ambitious clubs sustained continued Champions League qualification amid the backdrop of strict financial spending limits.

HOST: Ayo Akinwolere

WITH: Jack Pitt-Brooke, Jacob Tanswell and Chris Waugh

PRODUCER: Guy Clarke

EXECUTIVE PRODUCER: Adey Moorhead

Unai Emery is all about planning – there was a point to Villa’s ‘practice’ and chaos - The Athletic

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