“Gary Lineker’s HEARTBREAKING Match of the Day Farewell SHOCKER: Jaw-Dropping Sign-Off Signals EXPLOSIVE Exit!”

Gary Lineker Nears Final Match of the Day as BBC Prepares for Change

Veteran broadcaster Gary Lineker is approaching his final appearance as host of BBC’s Match of the Day, with his last Saturday night show set for the end of May.

Though he will step away from regular hosting duties, Lineker will remain involved with the BBC for another year, covering select live football events such as the FA Cup and World Cup.

Saturday’s edition of Match of the Day proved to be a lacklustre one, with just eight goals scored across five Premier League fixtures.

Lineker, who was joined by pundits Ashley Williams and Shay Given, didn’t shy away from expressing his disappointment at the evening’s entertainment.

“After 26 years of Saturday nights, I think that was probably one of the worst,” Lineker remarked, glancing at his co-hosts with a smile. “No offence, lads. Time to move on, I reckon. Goodbye.”

The standout match of the day came at Craven Cottage, where Everton mounted a comeback to defeat Fulham 3-1 and dent the hosts’ European ambitions.

Elsewhere, Brentford secured a win away at Ipswich, Brighton claimed three points against Wolves, and Aston Villa edged Bournemouth.

Southampton and Manchester City played out a goalless draw in the day’s other fixture.

Lineker will not be on air for Match of the Day 2 on Sunday, with Mark Chapman taking over as five more Premier League games unfold, including two high-stakes clashes among the top sides.

Champions Liverpool host second-place Arsenal, while Newcastle and Chelsea battle for a spot in the Champions League places.

There will be no Match of the Day next Saturday due to the FA Cup final, which Lineker will present live.

Chapman will front the highlights the following day. Lineker is expected to return to host the season finale on the last day, featuring all 10 matches.

Speculation has surrounded who will fill Lineker’s role after his departure. The BBC has confirmed that presenting duties will be shared between Mark Chapman, Gabby Logan, and Kelly Cates.

In an interview with Amol Rajan, Lineker shared his thoughts on stepping away: “I always wanted one more contract… but with the new rights period, I think it was a chance for the BBC to refresh the programme.

I’m happy with the outcome—it gives me time to focus on other things while still being part of major football coverage.”