Sven-Goran Eriksson Laid to Rest: David Beckham Among Mourners at Funeral in Sweden
Former England manager Sven-Goran Eriksson was laid to rest in Torsby, Sweden, with a funeral attended by 600 mourners, including football icon David Beckham. Eriksson, who passed away on August 26 at the age of 76 after battling cancer, was honored by family, friends, and colleagues from the world of football.
The funeral took place at Fryksande Church, where Eriksson’s coffin arrived in the early morning hours. The service was conducted in both Swedish and English, with hundreds of mourners gathering outside the church to watch the proceedings on a large screen. The eulogy included a tribute to Eriksson’s final months, during which he fulfilled his dream of managing Liverpool during a charity match in March.
Among the guests were former England manager Roy Hodgson, who succeeded Eriksson, and members of the Swedish royal family. David Beckham, who captained the national team under Eriksson’s leadership, also attended the funeral to pay his respects.
Eriksson’s impact on English football was significant. As the first non-British manager of the England team, he led them to the quarter-finals in three major tournaments during his five-year tenure. His achievements and contributions to the sport were acknowledged by the presence of high-profile figures at his funeral.
However, Eriksson’s legacy extends beyond his time with the England national team. He managed a total of 12 clubs, including Manchester City, Leicester, Roma, and Lazio, winning 18 trophies throughout his career. He also had managerial spells with Mexico, Ivory Coast, and the Philippines. Eriksson’s success and longevity in football make his passing a significant loss for the sport.
The funeral was a somber and emotional event, with Eriksson’s father, Sven, aged 95, greeting mourners alongside Eriksson’s children, Lina and Johan. As his coffin was placed into a hearse, a guard of honor formed, paying tribute to the esteemed manager.
The presence of David Beckham at the funeral highlights the strong bond between the two individuals. Beckham, who played under Eriksson’s guidance for the national team, expressed his grief and respect for his former manager by attending the service.
Eriksson’s impact on football is undeniable, and his funeral served as a poignant reminder of his achievements and the mark he left on the sport. Beyond his success on the field, Eriksson’s personal relationships and the admiration he garnered from players and colleagues demonstrate the profound influence he had on those around him.
In conclusion, Sven-Goran Eriksson’s funeral was a solemn and poignant event, with mourners paying their respects to the former England manager. The presence of David Beckham and other notable figures from the football world underscores the impact Eriksson had on the sport. His legacy as a successful manager and his personal connections with players make his passing a significant loss for football. Eriksson’s story serves as a reminder of the profound influence that individuals can have on the lives of others and the lasting impact they leave behind.