Gareth Southgate announced his resignation as England manager after losing to Spain in the Euro 2024 final. In his statement, Southgate mentioned that it was time for change and a new chapter, marking the final game as England manager. Potential successors mentioned include Eddie Howe, Graham Potter, and Mauricio Pochettino. Mark Bullingham, CEO of the Football Association, praised Southgate for turning around the team’s fortunes since taking over in 2016.
Southgate inherited a struggling England team in 2016 and managed to lead them to three semi-finals and two finals in the last four tournaments. Prior to his appointment, England had only reached three major tournament semi-finals and one final, which was their 1966 World Cup win. Despite his success in improving the team’s performance, Southgate was unable to secure a first trophy in 58 years as England lost to Spain in the Euro 2024 final. Bullingham commended Southgate for winning more knockout games in his tenure than in the previous 50 years.
Southgate is also recognized for restoring pride and respect to the team while molding the players into role models off the pitch. The job of managing England had been a lifelong dream for Southgate, who expressed his gratitude for the opportunity. Southgate expressed that managing and playing for England had been an honor for him and that he had given his all to the position. Despite falling short of winning the Euros, Southgate’s contribution to the team’s success and growth is widely acknowledged and appreciated.
