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LATEST NEWS: Gareth Southgate Revealed A Shocking Thing In His Statement
Gareth Southgate announced his decision to resign as England manager on Tuesday following his side’s heartbreaking defeat by Spain in the final of Euro 2024.
The Berlin showpiece was the second major tournament final in four attempts under Southgate. The England men’s national team had gone 55 years without such an occasion before he took over the reins in November 2016.
But England’s 2-1 loss to Spain saw them become the first nation to lose back-to-back European Championship finals and following the defeat, Southgate has decided to call time on his successful spell with the side.
In a heartfelt statement, he spoke of his pride to lead the nation, looked back at his many years of service as a player and a manager and thanked England fans for their support.
‘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.’ His statement began.
‘English football, and understand the power football has to drive positive change.
‘My special thanks go to the backroom staff who have provided the players and me with unstinting support over the last eight years. Their hard work and commitment inspired me every day, and I am so grateful to them – the brilliant ‘team behind the team’.
‘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 managed England in 102 games and enjoyed a 62 per cent win percentage during his almost eight years in charge.
The former Middlesbrough boss led the Three Lions to three major tournament semi-finals, including at the 2018 World Cup.
