England men’s team manager Gareth Southgate stepped down from his role days after the Three Lions’ 1-2 defeat to Spain in the final of the UEFA Euro 2024. The Southgate-led England have been one of the most consistent teams in world football but failed to win a trophy despite coming extremely close on a few occasions.
Southgate took control of the senior side following Sam Allardyce’s abrupt exit in September 2016 and took England to the semi-finals of the 2018 World Cup. The former England U-21s coach led the Three Lions to the final of Euro 2020 but lost on penalties to Italy at Wembley. England then reached the quarter-final of the 2022 World Cup but lost to finalists France.
Southgate resigns as England manager after Euro 2024 final defeat
In 2024, the English heartbreaks continued as they lost 2-1 against Spain in the final and became the first team in the history of the European Championships to lose consecutive finals. Through his tenure, Southgate garnered a reputation for playing conservative football despite having some of the most talented players in the ranks. But despite these criticisms, the Three Lions continued ascending as a powerhouse in world football.
The honour of my life to play for England and to manage England: Southgate
Confirming his exit, Gareth Southgate penned an emotional note expressing how proud he has been of his journey with the Three Lions. The statement said, “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.
“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 joined the FA in 2011, determined to improve English football. In that time, including eight years as England men’s manager, I have been supported by some brilliant people who have my heartfelt thanks. I could not have had anyone better alongside me than Steve Holland. He is one of the most talented coaches of his generation and has been immense.”
“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. The squad we took to Germany is full of exciting young talent and they can win the trophy we all dream of. I am so proud of them, and I hope we get behind the players and the team at St. George’s Park and the FA who strive every day to improve English football and understand the power football has to drive positive change.
“My special thanks go to the backroom staff who have provided the players and me with unstinting support over the last eight years. Their hard work and commitment inspired me every day, and I am so grateful to them – the brilliant ‘team behind the team’. 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. Thank you, England – for everything.”