LaLigaTV have confirmed that Gary Lineker will become a part of their on-air team from the upcoming 2021/22 season.
According to a statement from the TV network, the Match of the Day presenter will “present key fixtures on LaLigaTV”.
He will also feature on the station’s ‘VIVA LaLiga’ programme, which is broadcast from Barcelona, in a multi-year agreement.
The network is owned by LaLiga and solely provides coverage on Spain’s top division. Most of the league’s games are broadcast on the network, which also features special daily shows.
Lineker played for Barcelona for three years, between 1986 and 1989. He was brought to the club by his compatriot Terry Venables, who had taken over at Barca two years prior.
In his first season, he smashed 20 goals in 41 LaLiga appearances (back when 44 games were played).
The forward then followed that tally up with 16 goals from 36 games in the following season.
In 1988/89, he scored six times in 26 appearances before moving to Tottenham Hotspur.
Whilst with Barca, Lineker won the Copa del Rey and European Cup Winners’ Cup. He also continued to establish himself as a star man for England under then-manager Sir Bobby Robson.
Lineker comments on LaLigaTV signing
Lineker – who speaks Spanish – said in a statement published on LaLiga’s website: “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.”
Lineker joins a list of on-air talent that includes former Barca right-back Albert ‘Chapi’ Ferrer, former Real Madrid midfielder Gaizka Mendieta and Spanish football experts Guillem Balague, Sid Lowe, Semra Hunter and Terry Gibson.
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