Gareth Southgate Steps Down As England Manager After EURO 2024 Final Defeat

Gareth Southgate has resigned as England manager after serving for eight years, guiding the team to two European Championship finals during his tenure.

Southgate took over in 2016 and brought more success to the nation than they’d had since they won the World Cup in 1966.

Following a World Cup semi-final appearance in 2016, the Three Lions advanced to the final of Euro 2020, where they were defeated by Italy in a penalty shootout.

That was followed by a quarter-final exit at the 2022 World Cup before Southgate led his side to the Euro 2024 final this month.

They once again fell at the final, being beaten 2-1 by Spain, and that proved to be the last match of his tenure.

“As a proud Englishman, it has been the honor 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.

“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.”

In the latter stages of his tenure, Southgate polarized opinions by employing a pragmatic style of play despite having a squad brimming with attacking prowess, which left many fans frustrated.

Not even a run to the final of the Euros silenced the doubters, with that run consisting of narrow wins over sides that many felt England should have beaten comfortably.

Despite mixed opinions, it is undeniable that Gareth Southgate successfully transformed a national team that had struggled to progress beyond the quarterfinals of a major tournament for over a decade.

He will be remembered as one of the best managers in their history.

Southgate achievement and appreciation

The 53-year-old oversaw 102 matches, winning 61 and losing just 17 during his time in charge, becoming the first manager to lead England’s men to two major tournament finals.

“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,” he added.

“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.”

Although Gareth Southgate’s contract was set to conclude in December, he has chosen to step down immediately, paving the way for a new manager to guide England to the 2026 World Cup hosted in the United, Canada, and Mexico

Plans for Southgate replacement

Mark Bullingham, chief executive of the FA, has confirmed that work to appoint a successor is already underway.

“On behalf of English football, I would like to pay tribute to Gareth Southgate and Steve Holland for everything they have achieved,” Bullingham said. “Over the last eight years, they have transformed the England men’s team, delivering unforgettable memories for everyone who loves the Three Lions.

“We look back at Gareth’s tenure with huge pride his contribution to the English game, including a significant role in player development, and culture transformation has been unique.

“The process for appointing Gareth’s successor is now underway and we aim to have our new manager confirmed as soon as possible. Our UEFA Nations League campaign starts in September, and we have an interim solution in place if it is needed.”