GARY LINEKER has landed a new job on LaLiga TV after quitting BT Sport.
The former Barcelona striker will present key fixtures from the Spanish top flight from the start of the new season.
Lineker, 60, has signed a ‘multi-year agreement’ and will front shows on LaLiga TV and VIVA LaLiga.
The programmes will be broadcast live from Barcelona.
Former England and Tottenham goal machine Lineker said: “I’m thrilled to become a part of LaLigaTV, a channel I’ve watched every weekend for the last two seasons.
“I have fond memories of my time playing in Spain and very much look forward to sharing the excitement of LaLiga with viewers in the UK and elsewhere.”
Spanish speaker Lineker played for Barca from 1986 to 1989.
He scored 42 goals in 103 league appearances for the Catalan giants.
Lineker joins Spanish-football experts Guillem Balagué, Sid Lowe and Gaizka Mendieta on the roster.
LaLiga audiovisual director Melcior Soler said: “Adding Gary Lineker to our talent pool is really exciting for LaLiga fans.
“He has a vast portfolio of presenting experience and an in-depth knowledge of Spanish football.
“We look forward to witnessing the expertise, energy and passion he will bring to LaLigaTV.”
LaLiga’s 2021-22 season kicks off on Friday August 13 with Atlético Madrid looking to defend their title.
Iconic presenter Lineker will still front Match of the Day – which he has presented with aplomb since 1999.
But he stepped away from his BT Sport role presenting their Champions League coverage in May.
The face of Walkers crisps said he wanted to follow Leicester around Europe with his sons – among other things.
He announced the move on Twitter after joining the channel in 2015.
Lineker said: “Porto’s mouth-watering all-English final this weekend will be my final Champions League show for BT Sport.
“I’ve loved hosting the best club tournament in world football and I’m genuinely proud of being part of their truly groundbreaking coverage over the past 6 years.
“I would like to thank BT Sport for the generous renewal offer, but after much thought, I have decided to call it a day.
“I feel it’s time to do things that I’ve always promised myself I’d do: such as follow Leicester across Europe with my sons (how many opportunities will we have?).
“A big thank you to everyone at BT Sport, both in front of the camera and behind. You’re one hell of a team.
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“It’s been a joy working with you. Well played.”
Lineker scored 95 league goals for Leicester between 1978 and 1985 before moving on to Everton, Barcelona, Spurs and Japanese side Nagoya Grampus.
Lineker also netted 48 goals in 80 appearances for England between 1984 and was top scorer at the 1986 World Cup in Mexico.
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Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
