THE ARSENAL OPINION - BY LE GROVE

Pete, Matt Kandela, and Jacob Hawley return for a fiery therapy session — unpacking Arsenal’s international break chaos, Viktor Gyökeres’ crisis of confidence, and the looming barometer game away at Fulham. The crew debates whether the Swede’s slump is just a blip or the start of a bigger rethink — and how long Mikel Arteta will persist before Kai Havertz reclaims the nine. There’s deep chat on Bukayo Saka’s fitness whispers, Mikel Merino’s wild evolution from “bit of a clogger” to Spain’s Cristiano Ronaldo, and how Arsenal’s new load-management philosophy could define the season. Expect tangents, accountability, and the full Arsenal Opinion flavor — with upmarket Fellaini takes, Fulham anxiety, and more truth bombs than Gyökeres shots on target If you want these podcasts when they happen, sign up to be a member below! Audio Membership: https://www.patreon.com/c/TheArsenalOpinion Audio + writing: https://www.le-grove.co.uk/8c0cfff5 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The lads are back — and this one’s got proper pub garden energy. Johnny Dutch and Danny Graft return to The Dugout fresh from the studio, dropping exclusives about new music, a summer beer collab, and a massive sing-along anthem in the works. From there it’s pure Arsenal flow:⚽ Gabby Jesus redemption arc talk — why the chaos merchant might be key to a title run🔥 Viktor Gyökeres’ fight, graft, and evolution💫 Saka’s genius and why England still underrate him🧠 Odegaard’s injury, Ethan’s rise, and the midfield puzzle👊 Plus: the lads tear into Liverpool’s “too much change” under Slot, talk City’s freakish efficiency, and dream of future Arsenal gaffers like Wilshere, Xhaka, and even Fabregas. It’s another outrageous podcast — the way it should be. If you want these podcasts when they happen, sign up to be a member below! Audio Membership: https://www.patreon.com/c/TheArsenalOpinion Audio + writing: https://www.le-grove.co.uk/8c0cfff5 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Actor-comedian Tom Rosenthal joins Jacob Hawley for a brilliantly chaotic episode of The Dugout, diving deep into Arsenal’s evolution under Mikel Arteta. 🔥 Highlights: Tom’s spicy takes on the state of Arsenal’s squad The rise of the YouTube tactician and why modern football brains live in bedrooms Calafiori’s understated brilliance and how Arteta has turned Arsenal into a tactical chameleon Gabriel’s leadership moment at Newcastle and the emotional high of late winners How Arsenal’s new level of control and flexibility could finally deliver silverware It’s another Dugout Banger. Enjoy responsibly. 🎧 Listen now to hear why even Tom admits: “We might just be watching the best Arsenal team of our lives.” If you want these podcasts when they happen, sign up to be a member below! Audio Membership: https://www.patreon.com/c/TheArsenalOpinion Audio + writing: https://www.le-grove.co.uk/8c0cfff5 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Arsenal are back on top of the league and the vibes are immaculate. Johnny and Matt break down a smooth, drama-free win over West Ham — exactly the kind of performance Arsenal have been missing in recent seasons. We get into: 🔥 Arteta’s killer instinct shift and how it’s transforming Arsenal’s mentality 🎯 Declan Rice’s statement performance against his old club 🧱 Timber + Calafiori: fullbacks running the show ⚡️ Saka’s penalty power play — talisman reasserted 🤔 Big Vic’s mixed bag and why patience is still needed It’s a birthday pod, it’s a top-of-the-table pod, and it’s one packed with optimism that Arsenal finally have the depth, attitude, and ruthlessness to take the Premier League by storm. If you want these podcasts when they happen, sign up to be a member below! Audio Membership: https://www.patreon.com/c/TheArsenalOpinion Audio + writing: https://www.le-grove.co.uk/8c0cfff5 You can also sub up via Apple Members in the Podcasts app. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode of The Arsenal Opinion, Jacob is joined by special guest Laura Kirk Francis, whose Arsenal content has been lighting up social media over the past six months. Together, they relive the rollercoaster of emotions from Arsenal’s dramatic win at St. James’ Park, from the pain of overturned penalties to the joy of late winners. The discussion covers: Laura’s debut hottest take on Jurriën Timber’s Ballon d’Or potential Why Arsenal’s midfield depth might now be a “good problem” for Arteta How Eze’s central role changes the attacking dynamic Shifting from control to risk: a potential turning point in Arteta’s philosophy The evolving role of Viktor Gyökeres and the “nice headache” of striker options A look ahead to Olympiacos and the brutal schedule to come It’s a lively, insightful chat that blends tactical analysis, fan emotion, and a few laughs along the way. If you want these podcasts when the happen, sign up to be a member below! Audio Membership: https://www.patreon.com/c/TheArsenalOpinion Audio + writing: https://www.le-grove.co.uk/8c0cfff5 You can also sub up via Apple Members in the Podcasts app. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Arsenal Opinion crew is back with a monster episode after Arsenal’s dramatic last-minute win against Newcastle. Pete, Matt, and Johnny break down the emotions of a true statement victory—relief, joy, and the sense that momentum has shifted in the title race. We cover: Big Gabby’s redemption arc: from costly error to heroic match-winner Eze’s standout performance and why he could be the most important piece in Arteta’s new setup Arteta’s aggressive approach and how it unleashed Arsenal’s attacking edge The “next man up” mentality finally taking root in this squad Victor Gyökeres’ polarising display—nuisance or future No.9? Martin Ødegaard’s return, chemistry with Eze, and why his role might evolve this season Plus, the boys reflect on the mentality shift from last year’s “victimhood” to this year’s fight-first belief, and what this result means for the title run. If you want these podcasts when the happen, sign up to be a member below! Audio Membership: https://www.patreon.com/c/TheArsenalOpinion Audio + writing: https://www.le-grove.co.uk/8c0cfff5 You can also sub up via Apple Members in the Podcasts app. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

💥 AOP LIVE TICKETS💥 go on sale at 10am this morning (UK time). It's in London, Finsbury Park, and there are limited tickets. Go to https://www.le-grove.co.uk/ for the link! Back to the podcast... Jacob and Matt are back for a Thursday Therapy fresh off Arsenal news that could define the next era: William Saliba has signed a five-year deal. The lads break down why it’s more than just a contract — it’s a signal that Arsenal’s biggest stars believe a dynasty is coming. They also dive into: Eze’s instant impact and why he might be the most underrated signing in the league ⚡ The Carabao Cup win at Port Vale — dull, professional, and maybe a missed chance for Hale End magic 🎓 Arsenal’s injury cloud: Saka minutes, fitness staff scrutiny, and why medical transparency could help Arteta 🩼 Newcastle away preview — why it’s about football, not fighting, at St. James’ Park 🏟️ The need for more “big away goals” to turn tight margins into statement wins 🔑 It’s classic AOP Therapy: a mix of optimism, concern, and strong opinions about how Arsenal can finally get over the line. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jacob Hawley is back in the Dugout chair with Arsenal podcaster and Football Ramble legend Jim Campbell. Together they dive into Arsenal’s cautious start to the season — is Mikel Arteta overthinking it, or just managing a brutal run of fixtures? They debate: ⚔️ The fine line between caution and ambition against City & Liverpool 🎹 Does Arsenal’s midfield need a new creative “guitarist”? 🔥 Hot takes on Odegaard vs Eze and the 500-game theory 🏆 Ballon d’Or drama (Dembele, Salah, Vinícius, PSG bias) 😬 Noni Madueke’s injury and why he’s been more influential than the stats suggest 🔮 Why patience might be the key before this Arsenal squad clicks into gear It’s a measured but spicy one — knees jerked, hot takes flying, and a reminder that the best might be yet to come. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

MANCHESTER CITY (H) | ON THE WHISTLE | JOHNNY & PEDRO (EARLY BIRD)🎙️ On the Whistle is here (Pedro is VERY ill 🤒 so forgive any slurring) ⚡ Saliba decision-making 😊 Staying positive after a good point 😬 Worried about ‘safety first’ line-up 😢 Anonymous Gyok 🥖🍝 Martinelli making us eat DELICIOUS humble pie Hope you enjoy! x If you want these right after the game, sign up to our members program below. https://www.le-grove.co.uk/ https://www.patreon.com/c/TheArsenalOpinion Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s a therapy session with Pete and Jacob Hawley as we dive into three days of wild Champions League football. We cover: 🐱 Mourinho’s nine lives and his toxic-but-entertaining return to the big stage 📸 Inside access to Arsenal’s relentless content machine and how Arteta’s culture is shaping players on and off the pitch ⚡ Why Erling Haaland is still underrated—and the key to stopping City this weekend 👑 Thierry Henry’s controversial takes on Viktor Gyökeres and Arsenal’s depth, and whether he’s got a point 🔄 The evolution of “impactors” into “finishers” and what it says about Arteta’s management ⚔️ Newcastle’s struggles, Rashford’s redemption, and what Champions League “royalty” really means Big debates, hot takes, and plenty of Arsenal perspective as we gear up for a massive clash with Manchester City If you want this sort of content LIVE, when it happens, you can join our membership service below: ✍️ Writing + Audio: https://www.le-grove.co.uk/ 🎧 Audio only: https://www.patreon.com/c/TheArsenalOpinion Enjooooooooy! 😎 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jacob is joined by Kevin Lee Kharas (@kevkharas), lead singer of Real Lies and devoted Arsenal fan, for a wide-ranging conversation that blends music, football, and the madness of modern fandom. From his surreal day filming content with Myles Lewis-Skelly and watching Piero Hincapié model Christmas knitwear, Kevin dives into why he sees Mikel Arteta as building nothing less than a dynasty. The two discuss the cult-like intensity of Arsenal players, the tactical evolution under Arteta, and why football podcasts might just be the most powerful addiction in modern Britain. Expect hot takes on the “Fat Man” Viktor Gyökeres, Martinelli’s role as an impact sub, Eze’s best position, and how Arsenal’s defence could be the foundation for turning 1–0s into fours and fives. They also look ahead to the huge clash against Manchester City at the Emirates. It’s equal parts serious analysis, off-beat humour, and a reminder of why Arsenal remains one of the most romantic clubs in world football Follow Kev Kharas on Twitter! Hear the band: BANDCAMP Spotify Facebook Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s all four of the AOP boys out here discussing the HUGE win against Nottingham Forest 🌳🔴⚪️ ⚠️ TRIGGER WARNING: spicy content ahead, so skip if you scare easy ✨ Madueke – IMPACT or just more of the same from Chelsea? 🎯 Gyökeres – “all he does is score goals”… but is that actually ok? 💎 Mosquera – bargain of 2025? 🚀 ZUBI ZUBI TWOOOOO! If you want this sort of content LIVE, when it happens, you can join our membership service below: ✍️ Writing + Audio: https://www.le-grove.co.uk/ 🎧 Audio only: https://www.patreon.com/c/TheArsenalOpinion Enjooooooooy! 😎 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s Episode Three of The Dugout series, hosted by Jacob Hawley. This week’s guest is Arsenal journalist James Benge (CBS Sports, formerly Arseblog/Arsecast, now co-hosting with Charles Watts). Jacob and James dive deep into Arsenal’s present and future, international break weirdness, and the narratives shaping the season so far. 🔥 Early access for members only. James’ hottest take: Who to win the Champions League in style? Debating Arteta’s pragmatism vs control after Liverpool and Madrid Martin Ødegaard’s form, happiness, and evolving role with Eze & Zubimendi in the side Edu’s rocky start at Nottingham Forest and Ange’s arrival before facing Arsenal Noni Madueke’s early Arsenal impact & what the “data nerds” missed England under Tuchel: grinding out wins, Arsenal players in the squad, and Nonni’s debut If you are NOT following JAMES BENGE, here he is: https://x.com/jamesbenge Sign up for the premium and you’ll get: ✨ Exclusive writing ✨ Ad-free audio ✨ Bonus podcasts (Early birds) ✨ Much, much more https://www.patreon.com/c/TheArsenalOpinion https://www.le-grove.co.uk/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

🎙️ The Dugout with Jacob HawleyThis week Jacob sits down with Johnny Dutch and Danny Graft from South London cult band The Manor. The conversation is a mix of music, South London culture, and of course — Arsenal’s present-day drama. Expect talk about: The rise of The Manor in London’s music scene 🎶 Arsenal’s summer moves: Gyökeres arriving, Eze as the marquee signing 🔴⚪ Madueke’s early impact and what he means for Martinelli’s future ⚡ Timber’s comeback and Calafiori bedding into the defence 🛡️ How Arsenal have gone from UCL pretenders to UCL mainstays 🌍 Favourite Gooner memories and what this season could deliver 🏆 South London banter, culture, and why football still drives creativity 🌆 If you want to listen to their music, see the links below. INSTAGRAM TWITTER If you want these podcasts when they record (this was a Wednesday release), then sign up to our premium access where you get: ✨ Exclusive writing ✨ Ad-free audio ✨ Bonus podcasts ✨ Much, much more https://www.patreon.com/c/TheArsenalOpinion https://www.le-grove.co.uk/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

If you’re getting this on Tuesday… you could’ve had it earlier 👀 Want the early bird? Check the links at the bottom and become a member. 🎙️ ON THE WHISTLE: Liverpool (A) Here’s what we covered: 🥷 Gyökeres the anonymous 👑 Madueke with the KING performance 🛡️ Mosquera the GREAT ⚠️ Negative Arteta — is his safety-first approach an issue? 🔮 Where we’re heading next Sign up for the premium and you’ll get: ✨ Exclusive writing ✨ Ad-free audio ✨ Bonus podcasts ✨ Much, much more https://www.patreon.com/c/TheArsenalOpinion https://www.le-grove.co.uk/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We’re debuting a brand-new format: Dugout Chat. Each week, Jacob Hawley sits down with some amazing voices in the culture to talk football, Arsenal, and everything in between. For the first episode, Jacob is joined by comedian Horatio Gould (co-host of the Fin vs History podcast. @HoratioTheGould). They dive into life as Arsenal fans across eras, the emotional rollercoaster of following Arteta’s team, hot takes on transfers and players, and what makes the Arsenal fanbase unique in English football. What you’ll hear in this episode: ⚽ Horatio’s hottest take: Nico Pepe? 💸 Why selling players is harder than fans think 🧒 Horatio’s Arsenal origin story: raised near Highbury in a West Ham family 😅 Post-Invincibles nostalgia: Fabregas, Nasri, Van Persie, Sanchez, Ozil memories 🔄 Wenger vs Arteta eras — ideals, heartbreak, and the emotional DNA of the fanbase 🏆 Arteta vs Emery: intensity, fan connection, and who really fit Arsenal better 🤝 Rivalries reshaped: Chelsea, Newcastle, Liverpool 📊 Last season’s shift from expressive Wenger-ball to brute-force/set-piece Arsenal 🔥 Summer transfers: Zubimendi, Eze, Gyökeres, Madueke, and the best Arsenal bench ever 🚑 Injury worries early this season — and why squad depth might finally save us Let us know what you thought of the format! If you want to be a member, join here: https://www.patreon.com/c/TheArsenalOpinion https://www.le-grove.co.uk/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Johnny and Pedro get stuck into a MONSTER On The Whistle, where we discuss: Gyok off the mark! Jurrien Timber, best left and right back Injury nightmares continue... Zubimendi and Dekkers finding their feet! Max Dowman debut! Madueke looking VERY good Ethan... possibly not making it into Liverpool starting 11 Martinelli... 4th choice This podcast was recorded on Saturday, if you want the On The Whistles EARLY, check out membership options at the bottom of the post. If you want to be a member, join here: https://www.patreon.com/c/TheArsenalOpinion https://www.le-grove.co.uk/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

ARSENAL FANS, GET ON THIS RIGHT NOW! We discuss the injury issues with Kai Havertz, then crack into the juiciest story of the window... EZE TO ARSENAL! This is Johnny and Jacob. Buckle up. Get stuck in! If you want to be a member, join here: https://www.patreon.com/c/TheArsenalOpinion https://www.le-grove.co.uk/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The very FIRST On the Whistle of the season has LANDED. It’s Pedro, JC, and Kandela. Discussions were spicy after a terrible looking AMAZING victory. We discussed: Gyokeres debut Lack of Zubi / Declan chemistry Odegaard’s new role Timber looking crazy good DAVID RAYA MOTM If you want to get these podcasts LIVE and 48 hours earlier than everyone else, sign up as a member below. https://www.patreon.com/c/TheArsenalOpinion https://www.le-grove.co.uk/ Or as an Apple subscriber. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week, Pedro is joined by Jacob Hawley and Johnny Cochrane for an early-bird therapy session packed with hot takes, transfer angst, and a sprinkle of schadenfreude. The lads gear up for Thursday’s iconic predictions episode — last year’s winner Johnny arrives smug and ready, Jacob’s sharpening his knives, and Pete’s quietly plotting an upset. They dive deep into Arsenal’s transfer business, debating whether Eze or Rodrygo should be the final piece, how Berta’s sales game will define the summer, and if a shock Martinelli exit could unlock big moves. Spurs sniffing around Eze? It’s messy. There’s also a detour into football’s murky underbelly — from Vitesse Arnhem’s Abramovich scandal to multi-club ownership, PSR loopholes, and why the Premier League keeps letting the big fish swim. Finally, a surprisingly heated chat on stutter-step penalties, who should take Arsenal’s spot-kicks, and why keepers might need to adapt. Smart takes, big laughs, a bit of chaos — classic AOP. To get these podcasts right after they record, with no adverts, all season long, you'll need to be a member, sign up below AUDIO: https://www.patreon.com/c/TheArsenalOpinion NEWSLETTER: https://www.le-grove.co.uk/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices