BBC chairman Samir Shah has sparked controversy by suggesting Match of the Day should feature less football footage and more analysis.
The comments come as the iconic programme prepares for its biggest shake-up in decades with Gary Lineker stepping down after 26 years.
Former manager Harry Redknapp has already criticised the proposal, insisting viewers tune in to watch football, not a “talk show”.
The remarks have raised eyebrows among loyal fans of the 61-year-old programme.
Match of the Day host Gary Lineker will step down and there could be more analysis on the way
PA
Shah told the Sunday Times that Match of the Day “should not be built around highlights”.
Instead, he believes it “should be built around analysis and examination of the match to give viewers a deeper insight”.
The BBC chairman suggested many viewers had already watched Premier League goals and action before the programme is broadcast.
The comments represent a significant potential shift for the show, which celebrated its 60th anniversary in 2024.
Harry Redknapp, 78, has been quick to dismiss Shah’s vision for the programme’s future.
“It’s not a talk show. People tune in because they want to watch the football,” Redknapp told the Sun.
The former manager added: “I know it’s different to the old days, when it was the only way to see football on TV, but you still want to see what’s happened, not listen to someone telling you why.”
Lineker announced his departure from Match of the Day earlier this year, with his final show set for this summer.
Harry Redknapp voiced his concerns over any changes to the MOTD show
PA
The former England striker will be replaced by a trio of presenters: Mark Chapman, Kelly Cates and Gabby Logan.
The change marks the first time the programme will have permanent female presenters in its six-decade history.
Lineker’s exit will save the BBC a significant portion of his £1.35 million salary, with his replacements unlikely to earn as much between them.
Gabby Logan also appeared to be against the changes
PA
Gabby Logan’s recent comments appear to directly contradict Shah’s vision for the programme.
Speaking on the ainslie + ainslie Performance People podcast, Logan insisted Match of the Day “won’t be totally different” after Lineker’s departure.
“Nobody wants to throw the baby out with the bath water. It’s a football highlights show, we’ve got the same kind of pundits… and it’s all about the football,” she said.
The conflicting messages have created uncertainty about the show’s future direction.