Gareth Southgate has resigned as England manager following their Euro 2024 final defeat to Spain, as confirmed by the English Football Association (FA) on Tuesday.
Southgate’s contract was due to expire in December. Although sources told ESPN that the FA wanted him to continue through to the 2026 World Cup, Southgate opted to walk away after eight years as manager.
In a statement released by the FA, Southgate expressed his sentiments:
“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.”
Southgate, 53, played 57 times for England and took charge of 102 games as manager, a record surpassed only by Walter Winterbottom (139) and Sir Alf Ramsey (113).
After assuming the managerial role in 2016, Southgate led England to significant milestones:
- 2018 World Cup Semifinals
- Euro 2020 Final
- 2022 World Cup Quarterfinals
- First major final on foreign soil in Germany
Southgate began his work with the FA as head of elite development in 2011. Since replacing Sam Allardyce in 2016, he has been credited with overhauling the culture of the England squad and reconnecting the team with supporters.
Southgate’s statement continued:
“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. 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.”
He concluded with a heartfelt message to the fans:
“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.”
Southgate’s departure marks the end of a transformative era for English football, leaving behind a legacy of progress and renewed national pride.