Gareth Bale will join TNT Sports' Premier League panel after agreeing to a deal with the broadcaster as the Welshman steps into Rio Ferdinand's previous role
Gareth Bale and Rio Ferdinand talking
Gareth Bale has now stepped into Rio Ferdinand's shoes at TNT Sports(Image: Michael Regan - UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images)
Gareth Bale delivered a cheeky jibe at Manchester United that left Rio Ferdinand somewhat unsettled.
This incident occurred during TNT Sports' broadcast of Tottenham's Europa League final triumph over United in May and has gained extra attention since Bale has now succeeded Ferdinand as a pundit on the channel's Premier League coverage.
At San Mames stadium in Bilbao, Tottenham celebrated ending their 17-year wait for silverware with a narrow 1-0 win, thanks to Brennan Johnson's strike. Bale, a two-time PFA Player of the Year with Spurs, was providing analysis and seized the opportunity to tease United.
Reacting to a Tottenham social media post mocking the term 'Spursy', traditionally used to describe the club's habit of stumbling in important matches, Bale turned the tables. "It could be a Unitedy thing now, I'm telling you!" he said with a smile, implying that the Red Devils might now be tagged with the stigma of faltering at pivotal times.
Ferdinand, a stalwart of United, appeared uncomfortable with the comment. "Can we get off air now?" he is said to have whispered, evidently not amused by Bale's playful dig.
The interaction provided a humorous highlight for those watching and showcased the charm and sharp humour that likely made Bale an appealing choice for TNT Sports as they welcomed him, reports the Mirror.
The broadcaster confirmed on Monday that Bale, 36, will be joining their team, alongside four other new faces: former West Ham United player Michail Antonio, ex-Lionesses Fara Williams and Anita Asante, and Scotland's Jen Beattie.
The TNT Sports punditry team with Ange Postecoglou. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
Gareth Bale is one of TNT Sports' newest members of their full time punditry team
Bale stands out as a particularly high-profile addition, with his five Champions League titles and an impressive career that includes an iconic eight-year tenure at Real Madrid, two spells at Tottenham Hotspur, and a key role in Wales' remarkable journey to the semi-finals of Euro 2016, all contributing to his unparalleled insight.
In contrast to Ferdinand, whose punditry often reflects his defensive prowess and a focus on Manchester United, Bale brings a wider perspective informed by his time at leading clubs in various nations. His willingness to poke fun at United suggests he's ready to shake things up, potentially making him a hit with viewers.
Following Tottenham's win, Bale's comments not only showed his lasting affection for the club but also his appreciation for then-manager Ange Postecoglou's approach, despite some struggles in the league.
"I like the football he plays," Bale remarked, though he playfully noted that Postecoglou "lacks a bit of a plan B." Bale's straightforwardness, combined with his engaging personality, indicates he'll add a vibrant new element to TNT Sports' coverage.
Tottenham Hotspur's Ben Davies (left) poses with former player Gareth Bale and the trophy following victory in the UEFA Europa League final
The Tottenham Hotspur legend watched his former side capture the Europa League trophy last season
Ferdinand has been a familiar face on TNT during Premier League, Champions League and Europa League matches, having been a constant presence since joining in 2015 when the channel was known as BT Sport.
The 46-year-old expressed his desire to embark on a new journey and concentrate on his own YouTube channel, Rio Ferdinand Presents, along with his other business ventures.
Meanwhile, Bale will join an array of renowned names still associated with the broadcaster, including his ex-Spurs colleague Peter Crouch, Chelsea legend Joe Cole, Liverpool stalwarts Michael Owen and Steve McManaman, and Scottish football icon Ally McCoist.