Gary Lineker opens final Match Of The Day: ‘It wasn’t meant to end this way’

• Gary Lineker presented his final Match of the Day, acknowledging his unexpected departure.
• He started presenting his final Match of the Day saying “It wasn’t meant to end this way” before referencing the title race and Champions League qualification being all there was to focus on.
• He has been the show's host since 1999 but is leaving after controversy surrounding a social media post about Zionism.
• Lineker apologized for the post, which included an image considered an antisemitic trope.
• His exit follows a temporary suspension in 2023 for criticizing government policy.
• Gabby Logan, Kelly Cates, and Mark Chapman will share hosting duties next season.

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Gary Lineker’s final Match Of The Day opening: ‘It wasn’t meant to end this way’