Gary Lineker quits new role after just 11 months as private conversation emerges

Gary Lineker has stepped away from his managerial role for the second series of Baller League, reportedly after struggling to develop a passion for the project. Last November, it was announced that Lineker had joined forces with Alan Shearer and Micah Richards to oversee the Deportrio club during the inaugural campaign. The punditry trio delivered impressive results in the competition, topping the league standings with seven victories, one defeat and three draws from their matches.

Their stellar performance secured progression to the tournament finals, where they faced off against MVPs United, Yanited and SDS FC. Deportrio's journey ended in heartbreak during the semi-finals, falling to SDS FC, who went on to claim the title with a thrilling 4-3 triumph over MVPs United. Despite appearing committed throughout the initial series, Lineker has opted against returning for the second instalment, which kicked off on Monday.

Baller League chief executive Felix Starck has now offered insight into why the former Leicester City striker decided to walk away.

He suggested that Lineker was not totally in love with the project after holding a private conversation to gauge his interest in the second series.

Speaking with talkSPORT, Starck said: "We sat down and had a conversation with Gary: does it make sense to continue or not?

"I think you have to fall in love with this project to continue because it consumes your time. It's very time-consuming. It's full of people who spend hours and hours [investing their time in it].

"John Terry calls me every single week and complains that he's spending so much time, but then he says it's the best thing ever, it's the best thing ever.

"I think with Gary, he has a lot on in his life. He has a very busy schedule and if you don't fall in love with it, you can't be with this game. It's really up to you."

Whilst Lineker has departed the club, Richards has remained - bringing in Daniel Sturridge to assist with Baller League's second season.

Their opening fixture saw them face Shearer's new outfit Wembley Rangers FC, which he co-manages alongside England icon Ian Wright.

Lineker was also present in the dugout for the latter during the match, though in a supportive capacity rather than any official coaching role.

It comes after Lineker's departure from the BBC earlier this year, bringing to a close a distinguished 26-year spell with the company.