Southgate Resigns as England Manager Following Euro 2024 Final Defeat
Gareth Southgate announced his resignation as England manager on Tuesday, just two days after England’s 2-1 loss to Spain in the Euro 2024 final. Prince William praised Southgate as an “all-round class act” in response to the news.
“It’s time for change, and for a new chapter. Sunday’s final in Berlin against Spain was my final game as England manager,” Southgate said in a statement.
Prince William, who attended the final in his role as Football Association president, expressed his admiration for Southgate on social media. “Thank you for showing humility, compassion, and true leadership under the most intense pressure and scrutiny,” he wrote. “And thank you for being an all-round class act. You should be incredibly proud of what you’ve achieved. W.”
Potential successors to the 53-year-old Southgate include Newcastle manager Eddie Howe and former Chelsea managers Graham Potter and Mauricio Pochettino.
Southgate took over in 2016 during a tumultuous period for England, following their exit from the Euros at the hands of Iceland and the resignation of Roy Hodgson’s successor, Sam Allardyce. Under Southgate’s leadership, England reached three semi-finals and two European Championship finals, a significant improvement on their previous record.
Mark Bullingham, FA CEO, credited Southgate with transforming England’s fortunes. “Gareth has made the impossible job possible and laid strong foundations for future success,” Bullingham said.
Reflecting on his tenure, Southgate remarked, “As a proud Englishman, it has been the honour of my life to play for England and to manage England. It has meant everything to me, and I have given it my all.”
Despite the challenges and criticisms faced during Euro 2024, Southgate leaves behind a squad brimming with young talent, including Cole Palmer, Jude Bellingham, Bukayo Saka, and Phil Foden. “The squad we took to Germany is full of exciting young talent and they can win the trophy we all dream of,” Southgate said. “I am so proud of them.”
Southgate’s overall record stands at 61 wins, 24 draws, and 17 defeats from 102 matches. He ranks third for all-time victories as England manager. The FA will now begin the process of appointing his successor, aiming to have the new manager confirmed before England’s next match against the Republic of Ireland on September 7.
(Source: AFP)
