After a heartbreaking defeat in the Euro 2024 final to Spain, Gareth Southgate has officially resigned as the manager of the England national football team. The English Football Association (FA) confirmed this news on Tuesday, marking the end of Southgate’s eight-year tenure as head coach. Although the FA had expressed interest in extending Southgate’s contract through the 2026 World Cup, the 53-year-old manager decided it was time for a change and a new chapter in his career.
Gareth Southgate’s legacy with the England squad is marked by significant achievements and milestones. During his time as manager, Southgate led England to the semi-finals of the 2018 World Cup, the final of Euro 2020, and the quarter-finals of the 2022 World Cup. His greatest accomplishment, however, was guiding the team to their first major final on foreign soil in Germany. Southgate’s impact extended beyond the playing field, as he was credited with overhauling the culture of the England squad and reestablishing a connection with the fans.
In a statement released by the FA, Gareth Southgate expressed his gratitude and love for the England national team. He commended the players for their dedication and promised to continue supporting them as a loyal England fan. Southgate also highlighted the potential of the young talent within the squad and expressed optimism about their chances of winning major trophies in the future. As Southgate bids farewell to his role as manager, the search for his successor has already begun with names like Eddie Howe, Graham Potter, and Mauricio Pochettino being floated as potential candidates.
FA chief executive Mark Bullingham praised Gareth Southgate’s contributions to English football and acknowledged the strong foundation he had laid for future success. The FA expressed its gratitude towards Southgate and his assistant Steve Holland for their dedication and service to the national team. While the process of appointing a new manager is underway, interim solutions are being considered to ensure a smooth transition. With the UEFA Nations League campaign looming in September, the FA is keen on having a new manager in place as soon as possible to lead the team forward.
Gareth Southgate’s departure marks the end of an era for English football. His leadership and vision have left a lasting impact on the England squad, setting the stage for new achievements and successes in the future. As the footballing world bids farewell to one of its respected figures, the focus now shifts towards selecting a worthy successor who can build on Southgate’s legacy and take England to greater heights on the international stage.
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