Football Daily

What the report says

BBC Sport’s Football Daily podcast, published on 18 August 2026, focuses on Arsenal’s attempt to defend their Premier League title and the questions around whether Mikel Arteta’s side can repeat last season’s success. The episode brings together former Arsenal right-back Carl Jenkinson, The Athletic’s Amy Lawrence and fan Clive Palmer, with Aaron Paul hosting the discussion.

The conversation uses Arsenal’s Community Shield win over Manchester City as an early reference point and looks at what it may mean for the new campaign. Topics include Martin Odegaard’s form, how Arsenal’s midfield might be shaped, and whether Bruno Guimaraes could complement Declan Rice if that becomes relevant to the squad. The podcast also touches on Arsenal’s summer recruitment and where new signing Christos Tzolis could fit in.

Injuries are another major theme, with the absence of William Saliba prompting discussion about possible defensive cover. BBC Sport’s Alex Howell provides an update on the latest situation in defence, including whether Jarell Quansah or Ezri Konsa could be options for the Emirates Stadium this season.

The episode also features sports psychologist Dan Abrahams, who explains some of the mental demands that come with defending a league title. Overall, the programme frames Arsenal’s title defence as a test of squad depth, tactical balance and consistency at the start of the new Premier League season.