Gareth Southgate leaves England: Three Lions manager resigns after Euro 2024 final defeat to Spain

Gareth Southgate is leaving his role as England manager. The 53-year-old, who led England to their third major final on Sunday, two of which have been under his tenure, has confirmed he will not serve out the remainder of his contract, which expires in December. His 102nd and final game at the helm will be England’s 2-1 defeat by Spain in Berlin in the Euro 2024 final.

Southgate leaves as indisputable one of the most successful managers in English football history. While he may not have been able to match Sir Alf Ramsey’s 1966 World Cup triumph, the former Aston Villa and Crystal Palace defender restored pride and competitiveness to a national setup that had been consistently humiliated in recent years. During his tenure he reached one World Cup semi-final and one quarter-final and guided England to the Euro 2020 and 2024 finals, losing both.

“As a proud Englishman, it has been the honor of my life to play for and manage England,” said Southgate. “It has meant everything to me and I have given everything. But it is time for a change and a new chapter. Sunday’s final in Berlin against Spain was my last game as England manager.

“I joined the FA in 2011 determined to improve English football. During that time, including eight years as England men’s manager, I have been supported by some brilliant people who have my sincere thanks. I couldn’t have had anyone better at my side than Steve Holland. He is one of the most talented coaches of his generation, and he has been tremendous. their country.”

Newcastle boss Eddie Howe and Graham Potter, formerly of Swansea and Chelsea, are expected to be among the homegrown candidates the Football Association considers, although being English may not be a prerequisite for taking over Southgate’s job. Thomas Tuchel is among those also linked to the vacancy.

The FA have an interim option available if someone needs to take over for their next games, Nations League matches against Ireland and Finland in October. Whoever takes on the job on a permanent basis will have big boots to fill, FA CEO Mark Bullingham acknowledged.

“On behalf of English football, I would like to pay tribute to Gareth Southgate and Steve Holland for all they have achieved,” he said. “Over the last eight years they have transformed the England men’s team and provided unforgettable memories for all who love the Three Lions. We look back on Gareth’s tenure with immense pride: his contribution to English football, including a key role in player development , and in terms of culture, transformation has been unique. However, it is his record of winning tournament matches that is most special.

“In the 25 tournaments after 1966 before Gareth took charge, we had won seven knockout matches. In his four tournaments we won nine. So in his eight years he has won more matches that really matter than in the previous fifty years. And of course we have delivered strong tournament performances throughout their tenure. We came so close to winning the European Championship in London and securing the first trophy for our men’s team in over 50 years – and came so close again on Sunday. Berlin.

“Before Gareth, our longest time in the world’s top five was seven months. During his tenure we were there for six years. Gareth made the impossible possible and laid a strong foundation for future success. He is held in the highest esteem from the players, the backroom team, from everyone at the FA and across the football world.

“We are very proud of everything Gareth and Steve have achieved for England and will be forever grateful.”

Tributes quickly poured in for Southgate, including from his players. Declan Rice wrote on Instagram: “Thank you gaffer. It was a privilege to play for England under your leadership. Memories that will stay with me forever. All the best in your next adventure.” Jordan Pickford, one of the outstanding players of the last eight years, said: “Completely gutted. This will hurt for a while. I appreciate everyone who supported us throughout the tournament and would like to thank all my teammates and staff for their work through .

“I would also like to give a special thank you to the boss for always believing in me during his time with us and I would like to wish him all the best in his next steps. Thank you Gareth.”

Prince William, the chairman of the Football Association, said: “Gareth, I want to thank you – not as president of the FA, but as an England fan. Thank you for creating a team that stands shoulder to shoulder with the best in the world. in 2024. Thank you for showing humility, compassion and true leadership under the most intense pressure and scrutiny. And thanks for being an all-around class act. You should be incredibly proud of what you have achieved.”

Southgate’s own future remains unclear. According to CBS Sports sources, he has admirers in the Manchester United hierarchy and was considered a contender for the job when Erik ten Hag’s future was in question. For now, however, the outgoing manager appears determined to watch England from a distance.

“We have the best fans in the world and their support means a lot to me,” said Southgate. “I am an England fan and always will be. I look forward to seeing and celebrating as the players continue to create more special memories and connect and inspire the nation as we know they can .”