Gary Lineker won't be returning to the Baller League when its second season kicks off on Monday, according to reports.
The Match of the Day presenter had been working alongside his podcast pals Alan Shearer and Micah Richards to manage a team in the weekly six-a-side competition, but he's stepping away after making a few appearances during the first season.
His name doesn't appear on the roster of managers for the upcoming season, leaving his former partners to carry on without him.
Shearer and Richards will both continue in the tournament, though they'll be managing different teams this time around.
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Hollywood actor Idris Elba looks set to replace Lineker and is among the fresh faces joining the competition, taking charge of Rukkas FC.
"I am excited to be taking Rukkas FC into Baller League," the actor said. "To our competitors, take note, we are here to win and take Rukkas FC all the way."
Gary Lineker won't be returning to the Baller League when its second season kicks off on Monday, according to reports
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The Baller League is a six-a-side football tournament that first launched in Germany in 2023, backed by stars like Mats Hummels and Lukas Podolski. It arrived in the UK earlier this year with YouTuber KSI serving as president.
Richards will team up with former Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge at Deportrio, whilst Shearer partners with ex-England forward Ian Wright at Wembley Rangers FC.
Other returning managers include YouTuber Sharky with SDS FC, John Terry leading 26ers, and Maya Jama alongside Alisha Lehmann at MVPs United. Lioness Chloe Kelly takes the helm at Clutch FC.
Gary Lineker is set to ditch podcast pals Micah Richards and Alan Shearer
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Managers can select two wildcards each week to add to their twelve-player squads. Matches are broadcast on Sky Sports and YouTube, with the action taking place at London's Copper Box Arena.
The first season proved hugely popular, attracting 31 billion impressions and more than 7.7 million hours of viewing time.
Former Manchester United youngster Cameron Borthwick-Jackson leads a wave of ex-Premier League academy players joining the competition.
Baller League takes place at London's Copper Box Arena
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The 28-year-old, who made fourteen appearances for United under Louis van Gaal in 2015-16, was selected by M7 FC as the 26th draft pick.
Other notable signings include Nile Ranger, who came through at Newcastle and joins N5 FC, and former Manchester City prospect Brandon Barker at Rukkas FC.
Ex-Chelsea defender Michael Hector also signed for Rukkas, whilst Arsenal academy graduate Robbie Burton went to MVPs United.
The draft featured numerous players with Premier League academy backgrounds, including representatives from Arsenal, Aston Villa, Bournemouth, Brighton, Newcastle United and West Ham.