Gareth Southgate Announces Resignation As England Manager
Gareth Southgate has resigned as England manager, two days after the team’s heartbreaking 2-1 loss to Spain in the Euro 2024 final. Southgate, who led England in 102 games over eight years, announced his decision to step down, stating, "It's time for change, and for a new chapter."
Southgate's tenure has transformed England into a competitive force in international tournaments. He took over in 2016 after Sam Allardyce and led England to the semi-finals of the 2018 World Cup, the final of Euro 2020, and another Euro final in 2024. Despite these achievements, back-to-back losses in the European Championship finals were a bitter pill to swallow for fans and the team alike.
“It has been the honour of my life to play for England and to manage England”
In his resignation statement, Southgate expressed pride in his players and gratitude for the support he received. "As a proud Englishman, it has been the honour of my life to play for England and to manage England. It has meant everything to me, and I have given it my all," he said. He thanked his assistant, Steve Holland, calling him "one of the most talented coaches of his generation."
Southgate's resignation marks the end of a significant chapter in English football. His tenure saw England rise to new heights, capturing the nation’s imagination with deep runs in major tournaments. Despite not securing a trophy, his leadership and the team’s performances brought renewed hope and pride to England fans.
Reflecting on his journey, Southgate said, "We have the best fans in the world, and their support has meant the world to me. I'm an England fan and I always will be. I look forward to watching and celebrating as the players go on to create more special memories and to connect and inspire the nation as we know they can."
FA Chief Executive and Prince of Wales thank Southgate for his contributions to English football
FA chief executive Mark Bullingham praised Southgate's contributions, noting that under his leadership, England won more knockout games in four tournaments than in the previous 50 years. "Gareth has made the impossible job possible and laid strong foundations for future success," Bullingham said in a statement.
The Prince of Wales also acknowledged Southgate’s impact, thanking him for creating a team that stood "shoulder to shoulder with the world's finest" and showing "humility, compassion, and true leadership."
Declan Rice, England and Arsenal midfielder, also expressed his gratitude, saying, "Thank you gaffer. It's been a privilege to play for England under your guidance. Memories that will stay with me forever." Similarly, Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford thanked Southgate for "always believing" in him.
The search for Southgate’s successor is underway, with the FA aiming to appoint a new manager before England's Nations League campaign kicks off against the Republic of Ireland on September 7th. While there is speculation about potential candidates, including Graham Potter, Eddie Howe, Mauricio Pochettino, and Lee Carsley, the FA has not restricted the selection process to English managers.
As England looks to the future, Southgate’s influence will undoubtedly continue to resonate within the national team.
