BBC Match of the Day icon Gary Lineker announces major new role after quitting show

Gary Lineker is set to take on a managerial role for the first time, as he prepares to leave his position on Match of the Day at the end of the season. The football legend will be managing in the newly formed 'Baller League', alongside other icons such as Robert Pires, Luis Figo, and Freddie Ljungberg.

As Lineker steps down from presenting Premier League highlights, he'll be entering the dugout with fellow pundits Micah Richards and Alan Shearer.

The innovative league will feature YouTubers iShowSpeed and KSI in prominent roles, with KSI presiding over the UK division and iShowSpeed holding the equivalent position in the US. The Baller League, set to launch with 12 teams across the UK in 2025, aims to revolutionise football consumption.

Baller League CEO Felix Starck explained the vision behind the new league: "Baller League is a brand new way to consume football. We're redefining how the game is played by bringing an exhilarating and authentic approach to football, and one that will appeal to current fans along with future generations."

He added, "Baller League is all about forward-thinking, aggressive, hyper-exciting football. We're about creating a version of the game that's impossible to ignore - thrilling, bold and packed with excitement.", reports Football London.

Starck is on a mission to revolutionise the beautiful game with his concept of a 'UFC for football', which will feature matches consisting of two 15-minute halves, specifically designed to captivate younger audiences. Teams will be formed through a draft system, and while traditional rules like offsides and throw-ins will remain, innovative twists such as the 'Gamechanger' and 'Galaxy Minutes' will be introduced.

In the final three minutes of each half, these rule changes will come into play, determined by a virtual wheel spin. Starck asserted, "The old way of doing football, with exclusive TV deals and a few big clubs, is out of date," adding that "Baller League is here to make the game exciting, accessible, and real for today's audiences."

He also expressed a desire to reignite passion for the sport, saying, "We want people to love football again – not just as a sport, but as a full entertainment experience."

This news follows Gary Lineker's recent departure from Match of the Day, although he will continue his relationship with the BBC, presenting their coverage of the FA Cup and the World Cup in 2026.