London – Gareth Southgate has resigned as England manager after his side’s defeat by Spain in the final of Euro 2024.
Southgate’s reign ended with his 102nd game in charge, having guided England to a first final on foreign soil. Mikel Oyarzabal scored the pivotal goal to leave Southgate and his players devastated after the showpiece in Berlin.
“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,” Southgate said. “But it’s time for change, and for a new chapter.”
The Times reported on Monday that Eddie Howe is a leading contender to replace Southgate, while others such as Graham Potter, Lee Carsley, Mauricio Pochettino and Thomas Tuchel have also been linked.
The 53-year-old had said going into the tournament that unless he guided the men’s side to a first piece of silverware since the home World Cup win in 1966 he would have to stand down. As his side progressed through the tournament it emerged that the FA was hoping tempt him extend his contract until the 2026 World Cup but, two days after the final whistle, Southgate said he had made his decision. Steve Holland, Southgate’s assistant, has also stepped down.
He added: “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 [assistant] 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.
“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.
“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.”
Mark Bullingham, the FA chief executive, said: “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.
“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.
“The process for appointing Gareth’s successor is now under way and we aim to have our new manager confirmed as soon as possible. Our Uefa Nations League campaign starts in September, and we have an interim solution in place if it is needed. We know there will be inevitable speculation, but we won’t be commenting further on our process until we appoint.”
Southgate was appointed in 2016, initially on a temporary basis, as English football found itself at one its lowest ebbs after the loss to Iceland at Euro 2016 and reign of Sam Allardyce, which lasted for one match.
He successfully repaired the disconnect between the national team and the supporters, leading England to the World Cup semi-final in Russia, the final of Euro 2020 and the World Cup quarter-finals in Qatar.
However, with every near miss came a growing number of critics who pointed out Southgate’s perceived shortcomings and he seemed all too aware of that at various points during his eight-year reign.
Southgate had first considered announcing he was stepping down after a mutiny in the crowd during a 4-0 defeat by Hungary in June 2022; and after the goalless draw with Slovenia in the group stage in Germany some supporters threw plastic beer cups in his direction.
He conceded then that he felt he was becoming a divisive figure as coach in comments that pointed towards a departure. Yet Southgate hoped it would be after leading England’s talented squad to success at Euro 2024.
England’s performances improved as the side progressed and after beating the Netherlands 2-1 to reach the final at the Olympiastadion, Southgate may have felt the tide of public opinion turning back towards him. However, he chose to fall on his sword, the latest manager who gave his all but came up short.
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