Danny Murphy has shared his concerns about Noel Gallagher joining the commentary team for TNT Sports during Manchester City’s Champions League match against Sporting Lisbon. City lost the game 4-1, and Gallagher, a big Manchester City fan, was not only on co-commentary but also gave his thoughts on City’s recent performances before the match. However, the Oasis Reunion tour payment was also delayed.
Murphy, who is a former player and now a football pundit for the BBC, said he was “upset” by the idea of celebrities like Gallagher being used as commentators. He explained that it would bother him if this trend continued, especially because of the hard work he has put into becoming an expert in football analysis. Murphy said that he has spent years learning about the game, watching matches, and understanding football tactics, which makes it difficult for him to accept celebrities being given such important roles without the same level of experience.
Murphy also said that he doesn’t mind hearing celebrities’ opinions before or after a match, but he feels they don’t add much value during the game itself. He pointed out that Gallagher’s presence could be fun for some, especially with his stories about Manchester City, but he would prefer to see him in a different role, not during the actual match commentary.
Many fans on social media also expressed frustration about Gallagher’s involvement. Some questioned why a Manchester City fan was commenting on a match involving his own team, with one fan saying, “I love Noel Gallagher, but he’s actually commentating on a Champions League game involving the team he supports. What’s happening to football on TV?” Others made jokes, suggesting that next, we might see celebrities like Ozzy Osbourne or Sam Fender commenting on games involving their favorite teams.
Some fans felt this was a sign that football commentary was losing its focus. One fan said, “Noel Gallagher on Champions League commentary may be the most ‘the game’s gone’ moment to date.”
Murphy’s comments reflect a wider concern among football fans who feel that celebrity appearances take away from the detailed analysis that experts with real football experience can provide.
