Gareth Southgate has announced his resignation as England manager following the team’s 2-1 defeat to Spain in the Euro 2024 final in Berlin. In a statement shared via the official England social media accounts, Southgate expressed that it was “time for change” after managing the Three Lions for 102 games since taking charge in autumn 2016.
Southgate’s tenure, which began in 2016, saw England reach several milestones, including a World Cup semi-final in 2018, the final of Euro 2020 (played in 2021), and the quarter-finals of the 2022 World Cup. His leadership brought England closer to major tournament success than they had been in decades.
The 53-year-old’s decision comes after a period of reflection following the Euro 2024 final. Despite bringing England back from behind to level with Spain, a late winner for the Spanish side ended England’s hopes of clinching their first major trophy since 1966.
Reactions to Southgate’s resignation have been overwhelmingly positive, with figures from across the sporting world and beyond praising his impact. Prince William thanked Southgate for his “humility, compassion, and true leadership under the most intense pressure and scrutiny.” Gary Lineker, former England striker, commended Southgate for bringing “pride, respect and a togetherness to England that we hadn’t seen for a long time.”
Current players, including Declan Rice and Jordan Pickford, expressed gratitude for Southgate’s guidance. Rice posted on Instagram, saying, “Thank you, Gaffer. It’s been a privilege to play for England under your guidance. Memories that will stay with me forever.”
Southgate’s departure marks the end of an era for English football, during which he transformed the national team’s fortunes and rebuilt its relationship with fans. His successor will face the challenge of building on this legacy and potentially leading England to their first major trophy in nearly six decades.
As speculation begins about Southgate’s replacement, the football world reflects on a tenure that brought England tantalizingly close to glory and restored pride in the national team. Southgate’s impact on English football will likely be felt for years to come, both in terms of on-field success and the culture surrounding the national team.
news.sky.com
