Gareth Southgate has stepped down as England manager following their defeat to Spain in the Euro 2024 final.
The experienced coach, who took over the role in 2016, guided England to the World Cup semi-finals in 2018 and the Euro 2020 final, but couldn’t secure a major trophy.
“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,” Southgate said in a statement on Tuesday.
“But it’s time for change and for a new chapter. Sunday’s final in Berlin against Spain was my final game as England manager.
“I have had the privilege of leading a large group of players in 102 games. Every one of them has been proud to wear the three lions on their shirts, and they have been a credit to their country in so many ways.”
Despite England’s solitary World Cup triumph in 1966, Gareth Southgate transformed a struggling national team into a consistent tournament contender during his eight-year tenure.
Taking over in 2016 after the tumultuous reign of Sam Allardyce, Southgate, a former England youth coach, steadied the ship. Over 102 matches, he guided England to the World Cup semi-finals in 2018 and consecutive Euro finals in 2021 and 2024.
Southgate’s impact extended beyond these deep runs. He revitalized a team accustomed to underperformance, fostering a winning mentality and a cohesive squad. While the ultimate prize eluded him, his legacy as a catalyst for English football’s resurgence is undeniable.
“In the 25 tournaments post 1966 before Gareth took charge, we had won seven knockout games,” England FA CEO Mark Bullingham said.
“In his four tournaments, we have won nine. So, in his eight years, he has won more games that really matter than in the previous 50 years.”
