Southgate Resigns After England's Euro 2024 Loss
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Loading... - Mandisa Aziz
- 22 Jul 2024
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England manager Gareth Southgate has resigned two days after the team's 2-1 defeat by Spain in the 2024 European Championship final in Berlin. This marks England's second consecutive Euros final defeat, having lost to Italy on penalties at Wembley three years ago.
Southgate, 53, managed England for 102 games over eight years. His contract was set to expire later this year.
"As a proud Englishman, it has been the honour of my life to play for England and to manage England," said Southgate. "It has meant everything to me, and I have given it my all. But it's time for change, and for a new chapter."
FA's Response
Football Association (FA) chief executive Mark Bullingham stated that the process to appoint Southgate's successor has begun, with the aim to have a new manager confirmed as soon as possible. An interim solution is ready if needed, and no further comments will be made until a new manager is appointed. England's next match is against the Republic of Ireland in the Nations League on September 7.
BBC sports editor Dan Roan reported that FA sources are "very unlikely to restrict the selection process to just English managers." Potential candidates for an interim solution include Under-21 boss Lee Carsley. Early favourites for the permanent position include Newcastle manager Eddie Howe, former Brighton and Chelsea boss Graham Potter, ex-Chelsea and Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino, and there is speculation around former Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp and Thomas Tuchel, who left Bayern Munich at the end of last season.
Southgate's Tenure
Southgate is the only manager besides 1966 World Cup winner Sir Alf Ramsey to lead the England men's team to a major tournament final. He managed England in four major tournaments, reaching the World Cup semi-finals in 2018 and quarter-finals in 2022. Under his leadership, England won nine knockout matches, including two penalty shootout victories, a significant improvement compared to the six knockout wins in the major tournaments between 1966 and 2016.
Despite his achievements, Southgate faced pressure over the summer, with criticism that he was not maximizing the potential of a talented group of attacking players. Some fans showed their frustration by throwing plastic cups at him after the 0-0 draw with Slovenia in the group stage of Euro 2024. However, he regained much of their support during England's run to the final.
Southgate's Statement
"The squad we took to Germany is full of exciting young talent and they can win the trophy we all dream of," Southgate said. "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."
Reactions and Tributes
Prince William, president of the FA, thanked Southgate for "creating a team that stands shoulder to shoulder with the world's finest in 2024," praising his humility, compassion, and leadership.
England midfielder Jude Bellingham described his time under Southgate as "a rollercoaster of amazing emotions that has instilled hope and joy back into our country," calling Southgate one of the best coaches in the history of the national team.
England midfielder Declan Rice and goalkeeper Jordan Pickford also expressed their gratitude, emphasizing the positive impact Southgate had on their careers.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer praised Southgate for bringing back hope and belief to the nation, highlighting his dignity and honour in carrying the dreams of the country.
Southgate's Legacy
Southgate replaced Sam Allardyce in 2016, winning 61 of his 102 games in charge, drawing 24, and losing 17. He has been involved in the England set-up since 2013, managing the under-21s for three years before taking the top job. His only club management experience was at Middlesbrough from 2006-2009.
Southgate thanked his players and backroom staff, singling out assistant Steve Holland as "one of the most talented coaches of his generation." He expressed his continued commitment to improving English football and driving positive change through the sport.
FA chief executive Mark Bullingham praised Southgate for making "the impossible job possible" and laying strong foundations for future success. "Over the last eight years they have transformed the England men’s team, delivering unforgettable memories for everyone who loves the Three Lions," Bullingham said. "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."
