England manager Gareth Southgate has resigned, just two days after England’s defeat to Spain in the 2024 European Championship final.
The Three Lions lost 2-1 in Berlin on Sunday, marking their second consecutive Euros final defeat after losing to Italy on penalties at Wembley three years ago.
Southgate, 53, managed England for 102 games over eight years. His contract was set to expire later this year.
“As a proud Englishman, it has been the honour of my life to play for England and to manage England,” said Southgate. “It has meant everything to me, and I have given it my all. But it’s time for change, and for a new chapter.”
Football Association chief executive Mark Bullingham announced that the process to appoint Southgate’s successor has begun, aiming to confirm the new manager as soon as possible. He also mentioned that an interim solution is in place if needed and will not comment further until a new boss is appointed.
England’s next match is against the Republic of Ireland in the Nations League on September 7.
BBC sports editor Dan Roan reported that FA sources indicated they are “very unlikely to restrict the selection process to just English managers.” Potential candidates for an interim role include Under-21 boss Lee Carsley. Early favourites for the permanent position include Newcastle manager Eddie Howe, former Brighton and Chelsea boss Graham Potter, and ex-Chelsea and Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino. There is also speculation around former Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp and Thomas Tuchel, who left Bayern Munich last season.
Southgate led England in four major tournaments, reaching the World Cup semi-finals in 2018 and quarter-finals in 2022. Under his tenure, England won nine knockout games, including two penalty shootout victories, a significant improvement compared to the six knockout wins from 1966 to 2016.
Pressure mounted on Southgate this summer, with many fans believing he wasn’t maximizing the potential of a talented group of attacking players. Some supporters threw plastic cups at him after a 0-0 draw with Slovenia in the final group stage match at Euro 2024. However, he regained support with England’s run to the final.
“The squad we took to Germany is full of exciting young talent and they can win the trophy we all dream of,” Southgate added. “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.”
The Prince of Wales, president of the FA, thanked Southgate for “creating a team that stands shoulder to shoulder with the world’s finest in 2024.” He added, “Thank you for showing humility, compassion, and true leadership under the most intense pressure and scrutiny. And thank you for being an all-around class act. You should be incredibly proud of what you’ve achieved.”
England and Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham described his time under Southgate as “a rollercoaster of amazing emotions that has instilled hope and joy back into our country.” He added, “It was a privilege being led by someone so dedicated and passionate. Gareth is not only one of the best coaches in the history of the national team but also an unbelievable human being.”
England and Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice said, “Thank you, gaffer. It’s been a privilege to play for England under your guidance. Memories that will stay with me forever. All the best in your next adventure.”
England and Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford thanked Southgate for “always believing” in him, adding, “I wish him all the best in his next steps.”
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer remarked that Southgate will be “remembered for bringing back the hope and belief the country had been crying out for so long.” He added, “At every step of the way, he has shouldered the dreams of the country with dignity and honour.”
bbc