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England manager Gareth Southgate has resigned two days after defeat by Spain in the 2024 European Championship final. The Three Lions lost 2-1 in Berlin on Sunday, their second consecutive Euros final defeat, having been beaten on penalties by Italy at Wembley three years ago.
The 53-year-old managed his country for 102 games in eight years in charge, and his contract was set to expire later this year. Southgate expressed that it was an honor to manage England, but he believes it’s time for change.
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Football Association chief executive Mark Bullingham announced that the process to appoint Southgate’s successor has started and aims to have the new manager confirmed as soon as possible, with an interim solution in place if needed.
England’s next match is against the Republic of Ireland in the Nations League on 7 September. Southgate is the only manager bar 1966 World Cup winner Sir Alf Ramsey to lead the England men’s team into a major tournament final, managing England at four major tournaments, and reaching the World Cup semi-finals in 2018 and quarter-finals in 2022.
Under Southgate, England won nine knockout matches, compared to seven in the 25 tournaments before he took over in 2016. Despite pressure from fans, Southgate managed to rally support with a run to the final.
He believes the current squad has the talent to win major trophies and thanked the fans, players, and backroom staff for their support. The Prince of Wales, president of the FA, thanked Southgate for his leadership and contributions to English football. Southgate’s tenure, which began in 2016 after replacing Sam Allardyce, saw him win 61 of his 102 games in charge.
He has been involved in the England set-up since 2013, managing the under-21s before taking the top job. His club management experience includes managing Middlesbrough from 2006 to 2009.
Southgate thanked his assistant Steve Holland and the FA, expressing hope for continued support for the players and team at St George’s Park. Bullingham praised Southgate for transforming the England men’s team and making significant contributions to player development and culture transformation.
