The Athletic FC Podcast: "Liverpool: The Title They Never Saw"

Release Date: May 25, 2025

Overview

In this poignant episode of The Athletic FC Podcast, hosts delve deep into Liverpool Football Club's unprecedented 2024-2025 Premier League triumph—a title that came with bittersweet undertones due to the lingering shadows of the COVID-19 pandemic. Through heartfelt discussions with players, fans, and key figures, the episode explores not only the on-field successes but also the personal and communal struggles that accompanied this historic win.

1. Introduction to Liverpool's Triumph

Paul Machen opens the episode by setting the stage for Liverpool's 20th top-flight crown, equaling Manchester United's record. He remarks:

"This season's victory will be defined by Mohamed Salah's goals, Arna Slot's career-defining debut, and the measured manner with which the Reds marched on champions." ([02:27])

2. Reflecting on the Last Title Amidst the Pandemic

The conversation transitions to Liverpool's previous title win five years prior during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Paul Machen narrates the contrasting emotions and circumstances:

"Shut indoors, restricted to watching football via the telly, fans were denied the chance to fully enjoy a momentous achievement in the club's history." ([03:58])

Jamie Mawson shares his personal turmoil caused by the inability to celebrate the title in person:

"Not being able to celebrate that title broke something in me in a way that I didn't really anticipate and certainly didn't." ([04:07])

3. Personal Stories of Loss and Resilience

The episode honors individuals who faced tragic losses during the pandemic. Richie Morrison recounts the emotional impact of losing his father, Paul Smith, during the pandemic and how it intertwined with Liverpool's football journey:

"We sat together, we hugged together, we cried together. You know every emotion through every game we did." ([04:29])

The hosts highlight haunting memories from the Hillsborough disaster's legacy, drawing parallels to the pandemic's toll on the community.

4. The Impact of the Athletico Madrid Match

A critical turning point discussed is the decision to proceed with the Liverpool vs. Athletico Madrid match on March 11, 2020, amidst rising COVID-19 cases. Jamie Mawson describes the atmosphere leading up to the game:

"When Liverpool scored a goal, we just got everyone's going nuts again." ([18:13])

Richie Morrison explains the immediate aftermath and the onset of symptoms that led to his father's hospitalization:

"A preliminary report into the British government's handling of the Pandemic stated that 37 people died unnecessarily because that match between Liverpool and Athletico Madrid went ahead with a full crowd present." ([28:05])

5. Community and Leadership During Crisis

Steve Rotherham, Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, discusses the challenges faced in safeguarding the community:

"We were set up to fail as a country, and it just seemed like a domino effect from things were happening, but people were just putting their fingers in their ears and saying, just let people get on with it." ([30:28])

Megan Smith emphasizes the importance of local action over national directives:

"We were taking action locally that was having a greater impact than anything that a national government had ever done." ([22:52])

6. Emotional Aftermath and the 2025 Title Celebration

As Liverpool clinches the 2025 title with games to spare, the episode explores the complex emotions surrounding the celebration. Steve Rotherham reflects on the difference between the two title wins:

"It's harder this time around because when we celebrated five years ago we were still under restrictions... it's also a little tinge with sadness because you're constantly thinking oh he'd be doing this now." ([35:48])

Jamie Mawson shares his lingering grief and the emotional detachment he feels:

"Couldn't have predicted how it would go. Couldn’t have predicted how it would come to an end." ([36:30])

The episode poignantly notes the absence of communal celebrations due to ongoing restrictions and personal losses.

7. Honoring Loved Ones and Moving Forward

In memory of those lost, the podcast honors Paul Smith and Richie Morrison, sharing their stories and the indelible marks they've left on the community. Megan Smith expresses hope that future celebrations will remember those who aren't able to partake:

"He was such a Madrid. But then he'd also say, remember us, the ones who didn't make it, remember us." ([40:23])

8. Conclusion

The episode closes by reflecting on Liverpool's enduring spirit and the resilience of its fans. Despite the challenges and heartaches, the city remains united in its love for football and the cherished memories of those they've lost.

Notable Quotes

• Paul Machen on Liverpool's 2025 victory: "This season's victory will be defined by Mohamed Salah's goals, Arna Slot's career-defining debut..." ([02:27])

• Jamie Mawson on missing the 2020 celebration: "Not being able to celebrate that title broke something in me..." ([04:07])

• Richie Morrison on the Athletico Madrid match aftermath: "I blame the previous government. They knew the situation in Spain..." ([30:13])

• Steve Rotherham on emotional reflections: "Winning the league triggers a lot of amazing lotions off... I suffer with PTSD now..." ([39:42])

Key Takeaways

• Historical Context: Liverpool's dual Premier League titles marked significant moments against the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic.

• Personal Narratives: The episode underscores the personal losses and emotional struggles faced by fans and community members during the pandemic.

• Community Resilience: Leadership at the local level played a crucial role in managing the crisis and supporting the community.

• Emotional Complexity: The 2025 title win, while a cause for celebration, is tinged with sadness and reflection on past losses.

Final Thoughts

"Liverpool: The Title They Never Saw" serves as a heartfelt homage to the intertwined stories of triumph and tragedy that define the modern era of football. Through vivid storytelling and emotional testimonies, The Athletic FC Podcast encapsulates the essence of Liverpool's journey, highlighting the enduring bond between the club and its supporters.