“It’s time for change, and for a new chapter. Sunday’s final in Berlin against Spain was my final game as England manager,” this was Gareth Southgate words as he stepped down as England manager two days after his final defeat against Spain at the Euros
Gareth Southgate, who took charge of the England team in 2016 during a period of low fortunes, has stepped down as manager. Under his leadership, England reached three semi-finals and two finals in the last four tournaments.
Before Southgate’s tenure, England had reached just three semi-finals and one final in their history, winning the 1966 World Cup.
In his farewell statement, the 53-year-old Southgate expressed his deep pride and honor in both playing for and managing England. “It has meant everything to me, and I have given it my all,” he said.
Potential successors to Southgate include Newcastle manager Eddie Howe and former Chelsea managers Graham Potter and Mauricio Pochettino.
Football Association CEO Mark Bullingham praised Southgate for achieving what many thought impossible.
“In the 25 tournaments since 1966 before Gareth’s appointment, we won seven knockout games. In his four tournaments, we’ve won nine,” Bullingham noted.
“In his eight years, he has secured more significant victories than in the previous 50 years and delivered strong tournament performances. We came so close to winning the Euros in London and again in Berlin on Sunday,” he added.
Southgate is also credited with restoring pride and excellence to the team and turning players into positive role models off the pitch. He described the role as a lifelong dream fulfilled.
