Southgate Quits as England Manager

July 16, 2024 James Gregory England 4

(Image credit: Eddie Keogh - The FA/Getty Images)

Gareth Southgate has quit his role as England manager.

Southgate’s departure comes less than 48 hours after England became the first team to lose consecutive Euros finals, following their 2-1 loss to Spain in Berlin.

Confirming his decision to stand down, Southgate issued the following statement, in which he spoke of need for change.

“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.

“But it’s time for change, and for a new chapter. Sunday’s final in Berlin against Spain was my final game as England manager.

“I joined the FA in 2011, determined to improve English football. In that time, including eight years as England men’s manager, I have been supported by some brilliant people who have my heartfelt thanks.

“I could not have had anyone better alongside me than Steve Holland. He is one of the most talented coaches of his generation, and has been immense.

“I have had the privilege of leading a large group of players in 102 games. Every one of them has been proud to wear the three lions on their shirts, and they have been a credit to their country in so many ways.”

Southgate proceeded to iterate his belief that the youth within his Euro 2024 squad can lead England to future title success, as he paid tribute to the playing squad.

“The squad we took to Germany is full of exciting young talent and they can win the trophy we all dream of.

“I am so proud of them, and I hope we get behind the players and the team at St. George’s Park and the FA who strive every day to improve English football, and understand the power football has to drive positive change.

His attention soon turned to the support staff and fans as he continued: “My special thanks go to the backroom staff who have provided the players and me with unstinting support over the last eight years.

“Their hard work and commitment inspired me every day, and I am so grateful to them – the brilliant ‘team behind the team’.

“We have the best fans in the world, and their support has meant the world to me. I’m an England fan and I always will be.

“I look forward to watching and celebrating as the players go on to create more special memories and to connect and inspire the nation as we know they can.

“Thank you, England – for everything.”

FA Chief Executive, Mark Bullingham, has confirmed that assistant coach, Steve Holland would also stand down, as he issued a tribute statement to the pair for their work for the senior team.

“Over the last eight years they have transformed the England men’s team, delivering unforgettable memories for everyone who loves the Three Lions.

“We look back at Gareth’s tenure with huge pride – his contribution to the English game, including a significant role in player development, and in culture transformation has been unique. However, it is his record of winning tournament games which is most extraordinary.”

“In the 25 tournaments post 1966 before Gareth took charge, we had won seven knockout games. In his four tournaments we have won nine. So, in his eight years, he has won more games that really matter than in the previous 50 years.

“And of course, we have had strong tournament performances throughout their tenure.

“We came so close to winning the EUROs in London and securing the first trophy for our men’s team for over 50 years – and came so close again in Berlin on Sunday.

“Before Gareth, our longest time ranked in the top five in the world was seven months. In his tenure we have been ranked there for six years.

“Gareth has made the impossible job possible and laid strong foundations for future success. He is held in the highest regard by the players, the backroom team, by everyone at the FA and across the world of football.

“We are very proud of everything Gareth and Steve achieved for England, and will be forever grateful to them.”

Southgate leaves his role after 102 matches in eight years since he took charge in late September 2016, during which he led the Three Lions to 2018 FIFA World Cup semi-finals followed by third-place finish in the inaugural UEFA Nations League.

He then went on to guide them to Euro 2020 final where they lost on penalties to Italy on home soil, before relegation from League A in Nations League and Quarter-Finals of 2022 World Cup followed.

The FA will announce Southgate’s successor in due course with Jurgen Klopp and Pep Guardiola considered amongst the fans’ favourites to succeed Southgate.

 

‘Thank You’

Following confirmation of Southgate’s departure, UK Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer led tributes as he thanked the ex Middlesbrough manager for his work in laying the groundwork for future success.

FA President, the Prince of Wales praised Southgate for ‘showing humility, compassion and true leadership’ to turn England into title challengers in international football.

Various England players past and present also shared their own tributes from Sir Geoff Hurst to Ben Gibson, whilst Everton defender, Ashley Young praised Southgate for his ability to unite not just the team but the nation as a whole.

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