Gareth Southgate made a heartfelt announcement on Tuesday, revealing his decision to step down as England manager following their loss to Spain in the European Championship final.
Southgate, who assumed the role in 2016, guided the team through 102 matches, achieving notable milestones such as leading them to the World Cup semi-finals in 2018 and to the Euros finals in 2021 and 2024.
England’s 2-1 defeat to Spain in the recent championship final marked their second consecutive loss in such a crucial match. Reflecting on his tenure, Southgate expressed immense pride in representing and managing England. In a statement, he conveyed, “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.”
Acknowledging the need for change and a fresh start, Southgate emphasized that the final against Spain in Berlin was his last game as England’s manager. He praised the players he led, highlighting their commitment and pride in wearing the national team’s emblem. Under Southgate’s stewardship, England evolved into a formidable contender in international tournaments, significantly revitalizing the team’s competitive stature.
Despite England’s historic World Cup victory in 1966, Southgate’s tenure saw the team achieve new heights and consistency on the global stage. Their journey included reaching the quarter-finals at the 2022 World Cup, a testament to Southgate’s strategic leadership and the team’s resilience following their close defeat to Italy in the Euros final the previous year.