FOOTBALL – Former England captain and Barcelona striker Gary Lineker joins La Liga TV ahead of the new season.
La Liga season kicks off on Friday 13th with Valencia v Getafe. Then, on the Sunday, last season´s winners, Atlético Madrid take on Celta Vigo. Other matches on the opening weekend of 2021/22 are;
- Osasuna v Espanyol
- Mallorca v Real Betis
- Cadiz v Levante
- Alaves v Real Madrid
- Barcelona v Real Sociedad
- Sevilla v Rayo Vallecano
𝗠𝗔𝗧𝗖𝗛𝗗𝗔𝗬 𝟭! ✅🗓⚽
The opening round of matches in #LaLigaSantander 2021/22! 🍿 pic.twitter.com/EGlWYNyxuP
— LaLiga English (@LaLigaEN) June 30, 2021
In May, Lineker confirmed he was leaving BT Sport´s Champions League coverage and hosted his last program on the final between Chelsea and Manchester City.
Multi-year deal for Lineker
Lineker has agreed a multi-year deal with the TV channel. Therefore, as the network extended its broadcasting last year to include the UK and Ireland, it must be hoped he will be a massive boost as La Liga continues its growth.
Key fixtures will be hosted live from Barcelona by Lineker along with his participation in the VIVA La Liga studio programme.
La Liga star signing
How's this for a star signing? 🤩
That's right – @GaryLineker will be part of the @LaLigaTV team from 2021/22 onwards.
Welcome back to #LaLiga, Gary! 👋#BienvenidoGary https://t.co/WEKbSQcgWe pic.twitter.com/M2xQY6ZbSG
— LaLiga English (@LaLigaEN) July 30, 2021
Lineker replied to the tweet by saying “Delighted to join.” And retweeted, “I thought after 32 years it was time to return to @LaLiga.”
Melcior Soler, Audiovisual Director at La Liga, said: “Adding Gary Lineker to our talent pool is really exciting for La Liga 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 La Liga TV.”
Lineker played for Barcelona in La Liga for three years during 1986-1989. Not only did he score twice in his debut match but also a memorable hat-trick in El Clasico.
Furthermore, it is expected he will continue to work with the BBC presenting the Match of the Day programme.
