Gareth Southgate Resigns as England Manager After Euro 2024 Defeat
England manager Gareth Southgate has announced his resignation following the team’s second consecutive European Championship final defeat. The Three Lions lost 2-1 to Spain in Berlin on Sunday, after being beaten on penalties by Italy at Wembley three years ago. Southgate, who managed England for 102 games over eight years, stated that it had been the honor of his life to play for and manage England, but he believes it is time for change and a new chapter.
The Football Association (FA) has already begun the process of appointing Southgate’s successor and aims to confirm the new manager as soon as possible. In the meantime, they have an interim solution in place if needed. England’s next match is against the Republic of Ireland in the Nations League on September 7th.
Southgate is only the second manager, after 1966 World Cup winner Sir Alf Ramsey, to lead the England men’s team into a major tournament final. Under his guidance, England reached the semi-finals of the World Cup in 2018 and the quarter-finals in 2022. However, this summer, Southgate faced mounting pressure as fans believed he was not getting enough from the team’s talented attacking players.
Despite criticism, Southgate managed to win over many supporters with England’s run to the Euro 2024 final. The squad was filled with exciting young talent, and Southgate expressed his belief that they could win the trophy that everyone dreams of. He thanked the fans for their support, stating that he is an England fan and always will be. He looks forward to watching and celebrating as the players go on to create more special memories and inspire the nation.
During his tenure, Southgate won 61 of his 102 games in charge of England, drawing 24 and losing 17. Before becoming the national team manager, he had been involved in the England set-up since 2013, managing the under-21s for three years. His only experience in club management was at Middlesbrough from 2006 to 2009.
Southgate expressed his gratitude to his players and backroom staff, particularly praising assistant coach Steve Holland as one of the most talented coaches of his generation. He also highlighted the role of the FA in improving English football and called for support for the players and the team at St George’s Park.
FA chief executive Mark Bullingham acknowledged Southgate’s significant contribution to the English game, including player development and culture transformation. He expressed pride in Gareth’s tenure and thanked him for delivering unforgettable memories for fans. Bullingham stated that Southgate had made the impossible job possible and laid strong foundations for future success.
As the search for Southgate’s successor begins, English football fans eagerly await the announcement of the new manager who will lead the team into their next chapter.