The LLM Podcast

GW2 predictions: The Athletic back United bounce-back, Arsenal at Villa and a Chelsea-Brighton classic

After a chaotic opening weekend that saw Hull stun Manchester United and Ipswich return to the top flight with a win, The Athletic's panel of experts, an algorithm and a guest subscriber deliver their Gameweek 2 Premier League predictions — including a Manchester United response against Ipswich, an Arsenal away win at Villa Park, and draws in the Spurs-Newcastle and Chelsea-Brighton ties.

Champions League 2026–27 Draw Reveals League Phase Fixtures

The 2026–27 UEFA Champions League league phase draw has been announced, unveiling the matchups for Europe's premier club competition under the expanded format.

The 2026-27 UEFA Champions League draw is expected in late August, with the league phase featuring 36 teams playing eight matches each under the expanded format. The draw will be held in Monaco, with the final scheduled for late May or early June 2027.

Rangers dumped out of Europe as Jablonec prevail on penalties

Rangers were eliminated from European competition after a penalty shoot-out defeat to Jablonec in the Conference League play-offs. Vakhtang Tchanturishvili's 73rd-minute strike cancelled out the first-leg deficit to force extra time, and the Czech side triumphed 4-3 on penalties after misses from Findlay Curtis and James Penrice. The loss leaves Derek McInnes' winless side under heavy pressure.

With the expanded Champions League format guaranteeing elite pairings from matchday one, we rank the ten most anticipated league phase fixtures of the 2026-27 season — from Real Madrid vs. Manchester City to Benfica vs. PSG.

2026–27 Champions League league phase draw held

The 2026-27 UEFA Champions League league phase draw was held, setting the matchups for the competition's opening rounds. Fixtures, dates and broadcast details are expected to be announced following the draw ceremony.

Spurs complete stunning Marmoush capture from Man City

Tottenham Hotspur have signed Omar Marmoush from Manchester City on a season-long loan with an obligation to buy for £50m plus £10m in add-ons. The Egyptian forward, who scored 16 goals in 62 City appearances and won the FA Cup and EFL Cup, becomes the second City player to join Spurs this week after Savio. Marmoush will help Spurs climb the table after consecutive 17th-place finishes under Roberto De Zerbi.

Real Madrid vs. Barcelona: Which Rival Got the Better Champions League Draw?

An analysis of the Champions League draws handed to Real Madrid and Barcelona, weighing which of the two Spanish rivals faces the more favorable route to the final.

Amorim relishing 'special' San Siro bow but warns Milan over Venezia threat

Ruben Amorim describes his San Siro debut as AC Milan boss against Venezia as a 'special day' while warning his side about the visitors' ball-playing threat, ahead of a match where Milan aim to extend their unbeaten home run against the lagoon club.

U.S. Host City Reveals Staggering World Cup Price Tag

A U.S. World Cup host city disclosed the staggering total amount it spent on the tournament, prompting debate over whether the massive investment will pay off.

Varas urges San Diego to keep climbing after Rapids rout

San Diego FC coach Mikey Varas urges his side to keep pushing up the MLS table after a 3-0 win over Colorado Rapids, as they prepare to face a struggling LA Galaxy side sitting one point behind them.

Man United abuse victim breaks silence: 'He grabbed at my crotch, I was absolutely petrified'

A man sexually assaulted by Manchester United caretaker Billy Watts at The Cliff training ground in 1986, when he was 14, has broken his silence after reaching an out-of-court settlement with the club. He describes lifelong trauma, the Sheldon inquiry findings against Watts, and his anger that United has never apologised.

Sporting Kansas City, Colorado Rapids and St. Louis City are all making aggressive moves as the MLS transfer window closes September 2 — with SKC pursuing two DP signings, Colorado finalizing a deal for Israeli forward Sayed Abu Farkhi, and St. Louis targeting Damion Downs.

Inside the freshly-shaved head of Erling Haaland: 'His strength is not seeing everything in black or white'

An in-depth profile of Erling Haaland's personality, exploring how the introverted Manchester City and Norway striker balances his quiet nature with the demands of elite football. Featuring interviews with his childhood coaches, a sports psychologist, and insights from his own vlogs, the piece reveals the routines, self-awareness, and mental discipline behind the world's most prolific goalscorer.

Piastri 'has no answers' as Norris soars to second straight win

Oscar Piastri admits he 'doesn't have any answers' after a disappointing P6 in the Dutch GP, while teammate Lando Norris claimed his second straight win. The contrasting fortunes have effectively ended Piastri's title challenge and simplified McLaren's strategy.

Tsunoda shines in Dutch GP return with playful 'call me' plea

Yuki Tsunoda impressed in a one-off return for Racing Bulls at the Dutch GP, finishing 11th and ahead of his teammate. After showing what he can do, the Japanese driver issued a playful 'call me' warning to teams as the 2027 driver market remains frozen.

Wolff 'not at all' disappointed by Verstappen contract as Mercedes back Antonelli

Toto Wolff says he is 'not at all' disappointed Max Verstappen signed a new Red Bull contract through 2030, given the performances of Kimi Antonelli and George Russell. Meanwhile, Mercedes face budget constraints as their development programme stalls.

Namibia all set for a brief but bustling southern African truel

Namibia hosts a historic T20I tri-series against South Africa and Zimbabwe at Windhoek's Namibia Cricket Ground from August 28 to September 6, 2026. The series marks the first time two ICC Full Member teams play at the venue, with Namibia seeking to build on their famous last-ball victory over South Africa last October, while the Proteas send an experimental squad.

Anushka Sharma and Yastika Bhatia to lead India A across formats against Australia A

Anushka Sharma will captain India A in the T20 series against Australia A, while Yastika Bhatia leads the One-Day and multi-day sides. The tour starts September 12 across New Chandigarh, Mohali and Dharamsala.

India's WTC hopes take a hit after Colombo draw leaves them fifth

India's draw against Sri Lanka in the second Test at Colombo leaves them fifth in the WTC standings with 51.52% and seven Tests remaining. Winning all seven would take them to 70.37%, while six wins and one defeat would leave them near 65% — but a 0-2 loss in New Zealand would make qualification heavily dependent on other results.

Chelsea are reportedly exploring a move for a World Cup-winning forward to address a long-standing problem position, with the player said to be 'intrigued' by the prospect of a switch to Stamford Bridge.

The Carabao Cup draw has delivered an emotionally charged set of fixtures, with Manchester United, Liverpool and Tottenham among the Premier League heavyweights learning their fate in the knockout rounds.

Kostoulas stars as Brighton cruise into Conference League league phase with 4-0 demolition of Tromsø

Brighton sealed their spot in the Conference League league phase with a dominant 4-0 second-leg win over Tromsø, inspired by teenage forward Charalampos Kostoulas, who scored one and set up another in a rampant all-round display.

From Wayne Rooney's record-breaking arrival at Old Trafford to the soaring fees clubs now pay for unproven prodigies, the Premier League has steadily rewritten the record books for teenage signings. This feature charts the biggest fees ever spent on teenagers in the competition.

Ruben Amorim previews his San Siro debut as AC Milan boss against an unpredictable Venezia side, warning his players to expect a difficult evening despite the Rossoneri's dominant recent record against the visitors.

UAE batter Asif Khan banned 15 months for anti-doping violation

UAE batter Asif Khan has accepted a 15-month period of ineligibility after testing positive for a metabolite of the banned anabolic steroid mesterolone. The ban, backdated to September 8, 2025, runs until December 7, 2026.

Shahbaz Ahmed's extraordinary journey from washing utensils in Kolkata's cramped club quarters to a career-best 167 in the Duleep Trophy embodies pure determination, as the Bengal all-rounder revives his India hopes with a match-winning display for East Zone.

UEFA's new draw regulations for the 2026–27 Champions League will automatically ban certain fixtures from being made, reshaping how the expanded league phase is compiled.

Liverpool are reportedly closing in on a major move for Bradley Barcola, a transfer that could set off a chain reaction across Europe's elite clubs this summer.

Xabi Alonso Stirs Enzo Fernandez Rumours With Bold Carabao Cup Team Selection

Xabi Alonso's bold team call in the Carabao Cup has reignited speculation linking him with a summer move for Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez, with the Bayer Leverkusen boss tipped to add the World Cup winner to his revolution.

Alejandro Balde tells Barcelona he wants to stay and fight for his place

Barcelona defender Alejandro Balde has informed the club of his decision to stay and compete for a spot, ruling out a move away despite interest from Manchester United and his shock omission from the season opener.

Marcus Tavernier says Bournemouth can take plenty of positives from their narrow 2-1 defeat to Manchester City as they prepare to face Everton, a side they have beaten more than any other opponent in the Premier League. The Cherries led late before City struck, while Everton bring confidence from a 2-0 win over Crystal Palace.

Liverpool have reportedly 'agreed' a transfer fee compromise with Paris Saint-Germain for winger Bradley Barcola, a significant breakthrough in a saga that has dominated the summer window as Arne Slot looks to add attacking firepower.

Barcelona's president Joan Laporta has assessed the drawn-out Julian Alvarez negotiations and the Elche opener, as a furious Atletico Madrid search they are the only damage victims of a saga that grips the camp.

Alejandro Balde faces an uncertain end to the transfer window after Hansi Flick left him out of Barcelona's season opener and told him he is seen as backup to Joao Cancelo at left-back.

Chelsea Sell Liam Delap in Club-Record Deal as Blues Bank Huge Profit

Chelsea have completed a club-record transfer for striker Liam Delap, landing a significant profit on a player whose value has soared during his time at Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea host Luton Town in a clash that pits Premier League pedigree against Championship momentum. Here's our full preview, including what to watch for, early predictions, and the key talking points heading into the match.

'Not on his top level': Hansi Flick admits concern over Lamine Yamal's recent dip in form

Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick has admitted that teenage sensation Lamine Yamal is not operating at his top level, addressing the youngster's recent struggles in public for the first time.

Barcelona coach Hansi Flick has publicly acknowledged that teenage sensation Lamine Yamal is 'not on his top level' at present, addressing the 17-year-old's recent struggles in measured but honest terms.

Messi's mentor now Miami's biggest liability: Can Inter Miami fire Guillermo Hoyos?

Inter Miami is enduring its worst stretch since joining MLS under coach Guillermo Hoyos — winless in five matches with 12 goals conceded — raising questions about whether the club can fire a coach so closely tied to Lionel Messi, who himself looks increasingly frustrated on the pitch.

Barcelona find out their Champions League league-phase opponents on Thursday, hoping for a kind draw while potentially savouring against Manchester United, Roma and defending champions PSG.

Breaking Down the Best and Worst Champions League Draws for Every Premier League Club

With the Champions League draw approaching, we analyze the dream scenarios and nightmare opponents facing each of the Premier League's continental contenders.

Sky's proposed £1.6bn acquisition of ITV's media and entertainment arm, including ITVX and its free-to-air channels, could transform how Premier League and EFL football is shown in the UK, with analysts predicting more live matches and highlights behind the paywall and a stronger combined entity to take on global streaming giants.

Barcelona begin the home portion of their La Liga title defence on Thursday when they welcome Athletic Club to Camp Nou, with new signing Rodri expected to make his debut in the second half.

Mbappe hat-trick crowns Mourinho's Bernabeu homecoming as Madrid down Real Sociedad

Kylian Mbappe scored a stunning hat-trick as Real Madrid beat Real Sociedad 4-1 in Jose Mourinho's return to the Bernabeu dugout, with the striker now 'hungry to make history' at the club.

Brentford's xG blitz headlines opening weekend as Premier League efficiency kings shine

Our inaugural Expected Premier League Table dives into Matchday 1 xG numbers, with Brentford's 3.9xG blitz against Spurs leading the way, City needing a set piece to rescue a point, and big xG underperformers like Crystal Palace and Bournemouth struggling again.

AB de Villiers defends Kohli-Tendulkar verdict: 'It's my opinion, I'm not axing anyone'

South Africa great AB de Villiers has clarified his controversial comparison between Virat Kohli and Sachin Tendulkar after his comments triggered a social media backlash, insisting his assessment was based on more than just statistics.

Dinusha grinds out defiant knock as Sri Lanka mount stubborn rearguard

Sonal Dinusha moved into the 90s and produced an exhibition in batting discipline as Sri Lanka reached 383/8 at tea on the final day of the second Test against India in Colombo, frustrating the tourists and inching closer to a draw.

Sehwag's son Aaryavir lands maiden India U19 call-up for Australia series

Aaryavir Sehwag, son of former India batting great Virender Sehwag, has earned his first call-up to India's Under-19 squad for the One-Day leg of Australia's tour of India in September, with Anvay Dravid also retained following an impressive run against Sri Lanka.

Barcelona decide to sign left-footed centre-back as Cortés makes way

Barcelona have made a definitive decision to reinforce their central defence with a left-footed centre-back before the transfer window closes, a move that will see youngster Alvaro Cortés moved on to make room.

Barcelona 'pushing' to land Hamburg teen Mikael Baza

Barcelona are actively pursuing a deal for 16-year-old Hamburg centre-back Mikael Baza, with negotiations ongoing and the German defender keen on the move.

'This season needs to be mine': Barry's hat-trick fires Everton past Preston in EFL Cup romp

Thierno Barry scored his first hat-trick for Everton as David Moyes' side thrashed Preston North End 4-0 at Deepdale to book their place in the third round of the EFL Cup, with Brennan Johnson also netting his first goal for the Toffees.

Barcelona host Athletic Club in a marquee La Liga showdown as the Blaugrana look to strengthen their title charge against an ever-dangerous Basque side. A detailed preview covering form, tactical angles, potential lineups and a score prediction.

Harvey Barnes came off the bench to score twice as Newcastle United beat West Brom 3-2 at St James' Park, securing Matthias Jaissle's first competitive win and a place in the EFL Cup third round.

Talented young Brazilian wingers rarely come cheap, but the £85m package Tottenham agreed with Manchester City for Savio risk being recorded among the league's most exorbitant outlays (£45.3m above his market value), a new data analysis shows.

Watch: Barcelona summer signing Jesse Bisiwu nets classy solo goal on Barca Atlètic debut

Barcelona's 18-year-old summer signing Jesse Bisiwu marked his Barca Atlètic appearance with a classy individual goal in a friendly against CF Reus, giving Blaugrana fans a glimpse of why the club pushed hard for his signature from Club Brugge.

RB Leipzig among clubs calling Barcelona over Marc Casadó exit

RB Leipzig have been calling Barcelona over the exit conditions for midfielder Marc Casadó, who is set to leave the Catalan club before the window closes, with Turkish sides also keen.

Chelsea's projected starting XI for the Carabao Cup meeting with Luton Town has been outlined, with Enzo Maresca expected to rotate his squad for the cup fixture at Stamford Bridge.

Hull stun Manchester United and Brentford batter Spurs on a wild Premier League opening weekend

The Athletic's weekly performance rankings for the 2026-27 Premier League season launch with promoted Hull City topping the pile after dumping out Manchester United, while Brentford demolition of Tottenham and Brighton's rout of Aston Villa complete a chaotic opening round.

Seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton has apologised for his frustrated radio outbursts and media comments during the Dutch Grand Prix, conceding he didn't present his best version in the heat of the moment as he was held up by team-mate Charles Leclerc.

The FIA has formally confirmed that Mercedes were granted the chance to make engine upgrades from the first ADUO review period, while Ferrari, Audi and Honda received two, as Red Bull's appeal for a boost was rejected.