Gareth Bale will return to the punditry spotlight as he joins TNT Sports' coverage of the Europa League final between his former club Tottenham and Manchester United.
The Welsh icon, who retired from professional football in 2023, will be in Bilbao on Wednesday night to offer his insights as Spurs aim to end their 17-year trophy drought.
Bale's appearance comes at a crucial moment for both Premier League sides, who are struggling domestically but have the chance to salvage their seasons with European glory.
Bale's connection to Tottenham runs deep, having made 237 appearances across two separate stints with the north London club.
Gareth Bale looks set to appear as a pundit ahead of the Europa League final
PA
During his time at Spurs, he scored 71 goals and provided 53 assists, establishing himself as one of their greatest ever players.
The 35-year-old was part of Tottenham's last trophy-winning side, the 2008 League Cup triumph.
After leaving Spurs in 2013 for a world-record £85 million move to Real Madrid, he returned on loan for the 2020/21 season.
Since retiring from professional football, Bale has maintained a selective approach to punditry.
He has kept a relatively low profile, making only occasional television appearances.
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He previously worked with TNT Sports in November 2024, providing analysis for Liverpool's Champions League clash with Real Madrid at Anfield, which Liverpool won 2-0.
However, his media appearances have been sparse since then.
Wednesday's Europa League final will mark Bale's return to the broadcasting spotlight after being used sparingly by networks since his retirement.
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Gareth Bale played for Tottenham across two spells
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The stakes for Wednesday's final could not be higher for both clubs, who find themselves in dire Premier League positions.
Tottenham sit 17th in the table while Manchester United are just one place above in 16th, with the Red Devils enduring a club-record eight matches without a win.
The winner will secure Champions League qualification for next season, which could dramatically alter either club's transfer plans.
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Bale will be joined by an experienced panel of pundits in Bilbao, including Rio Ferdinand, Glenn Hoddle and Paul Scholes. TalkSport also reports that Robbie Savage will be part of the TNT Sports team.
UK fans unable to travel to Spain can watch the final for free via the Discovery+ app.
The match will be broadcast on Wednesday night, giving supporters the chance to see one of Tottenham's greatest ever players provide analysis on their biggest game of the season.
