KUALA LUMPUR – Gareth Southgate has stepped down as England manager after the 2-1 Euro 2024 final defeat to Spain.
His tenure, spanning nearly eight years, saw him guide England to four major tournaments.
Under Southgate, England played 102 matches, winning 61 and losing just 17.
He became the first manager to lead England’s men to two major tournament finals.
Despite his achievements, Southgate leaves without a trophy, with defeats to Italy in 2021 and Spain in Berlin marking his final attempts.
His contract was set to expire in December but chose to step away now.
In a heartfelt statement, Southgate expressed pride in his time as manager, calling it the honour of his life.
He acknowledged it was time for a new chapter and praised his players and staff.
“As a proud Englishman, it has been the honour of my life to play for England and to manage England,” Southgate said in a statement.
“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 joined the FA in 2011 and became England’s manager in November 2016.
He led the team to the 2018 World Cup semi-finals and the Euro 2020 final.
A contract extension followed the 2022 World Cup, but another disappointment in Germany brought his tenure to a close.
Southgate thanked his backroom staff and fans for their unwavering support.
FA chief executive Mark Bullingham confirmed the search for a successor is underway.
He praised Southgate and assistant Steve Holland for their transformative impact on the team.
The new manager will be appointed soon, with an interim solution ready if needed for the UEFA Nations League campaign starting in September.
Southgate’s legacy includes significant contributions to player development and cultural transformation in English football.
His departure marks the end of a transformative era for the national team. – July 16, 202