Gareth Southgate has officially stepped down from his position as head coach of England’s Men NT, a position that was entrusted to him back in 2016 following consecutive Euro’s final heartbreak.
The gaffer who is held in high esteem by the FA staff and players announced his decision in the early hours of today to bring to an end, an eight years spell at the helm of affairs where he has overseen tremendous turnaround with the Three Lions, albeit an elusive trophy in every final lap.
“As a proud Englishman, it has been the honour of my life to play for England and to manage England,” Gareth Southgate said as credited to Guardian UK. “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’s reign as England manager has been marked by consistent success in major tournaments. He led the team to the Euro 2020 final (defeated by Italy) and the 2024 Euro final (lost to Spain). He also steered England to a World Cup semi-final in 2018 (knocked out by Croatia), with a quarter-final exit in the other World Cup appearance.
Following his unceremonious exit, the FA is actively seeking Gareth Southgate’s successor and aiming for a swift appointment as formally communicated by Mark Bullingham who is the FA chief executive officer.
Three Lions will now hope to rise up from their ashes when the UEFA Nations League campaign kicks off in September, but nonetheless, a temporary manager would be on standby if needed.