LONDON, UK — After 26 years as one of the key faces of Premier League coverage, Gary Lineker will step down as the host of the BBC’s Match of the Day following this Sunday’s show, which highlights the final day of the 2025/26 season. This transition follows a recent controversy surrounding his social media posts related to antisemitism, leading to criticisms about his continued presence at the BBC.
Lineker, a former striker for Barcelona and the England national team, announced his favorite eleven Premier League players during his farewell remarks. This list includes legends such as Jamie Vardy, Wayne Rooney, and Steven Gerrard, and highlights his personal connection to the sport and its most memorable moments during his tenure.
“I’ve picked players that have given me a lot of pleasure, a lot of joy, over the period of time that I’ve presented the Premier League,” Lineker explained. He expressed that the selection was not in any specific order to avoid complications. Among his Leicester City favorites, he praised Vardy’s record of 200 goals in 500 matches, emphasizing his significance to the club during its highs and lows. “It’s a hell of an achievement at a club that is generally a yo-yo club,” he noted.
Other stars that made it to his list include Manchester United‘s Wayne Rooney, whom Lineker described as one of the all-time greats, and Liverpool‘s Steven Gerrard, who he characterized as a dynamic midfielder and leader.
Chelsea’s Eden Hazard was also celebrated, not just for his remarkable skill but for his unforgettable moments, such as the iconic goal against Tottenham. “His low center of gravity… just glorious to watch,” Lineker remarked.
Reflecting on current players, he highlighted Kevin De Bruyne, noting, “If I was playing the game today, I would’ve loved to have played alongside him.”
Lineker also discussed the difficulty of narrowing down his favorites, expressing regret at leaving out established names like Frank Lampard and Cristiano Ronaldo, which spoke volumes about the competitive nature of Premier League football.
“It was difficult leaving out people like Frank because I know him well,” he added, showcasing the emotional ties between him and many players.
Tonight’s episode of Match of the Day will encapsulate not only a review of notable matches this season but also serve as a heartfelt farewell to a man whose voice has become synonymous with football for millions of fans.
As the football community gears up to send him off, it is clear that Lineker’s impact on the sport and broadcasting will not soon be forgotten, leaving behind a legacy rich with memorable highlights and passionate discussions around the beautiful game.
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