PeakNews Online
Gareth Southgate has officially resigned as the manager of the England national football team, ending his eight-year tenure. Despite the Football Association’s hopes for him to extend his contract following a successful run to the final of Euro 2024, Southgate has decided to pursue new challenges.
“As a proud Englishman, it has been the honour of my life to play for England and to manage England,” Southgate stated. “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.”
The 53-year-old leaves behind a legacy as England’s most successful manager in terms of consistent major tournament performances. Under his leadership, England reached the European Championship final in 2021, narrowly losing to Italy, and a World Cup semi-final in 2018, where they were defeated by Croatia. In his other World Cup, the team was eliminated by France in the quarter-finals.
With Southgate’s departure, the FA faces the task of finding his successor. Newcastle’s Eddie Howe and three former Chelsea managers—Graham Potter, Thomas Tuchel, and Mauricio Pochettino—are among the top candidates. Howe, who has described the England manager role as “the ultimate” job, is reportedly open to discussions if approached by the FA. England’s next fixtures are against the Republic of Ireland and Finland in the Nations League in September.
“The squad we took to Germany is full of exciting young talent and they can win the trophy we all dream of,” Southgate said. “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.”
Southgate had signed a contract extending to December to allow time for a post-Euro 2024 decision. However, he made it clear before the final against Spain that his decision to step down was already made.
Southgate faced significant pressure during the Euros after lackluster performances in the group stage and a tough match against Slovakia in the last 16. Following a 0-0 draw with Slovenia, he encountered boos and criticism but maintained his composure, acknowledging the challenging environment.
Southgate initially took charge of England on a caretaker basis in September 2016 following Sam Allardyce’s sudden departure. With his experience at the FA since 2013 and a managerial stint at Middlesbrough from 2006-09, Southgate has garnered admiration from various clubs, including Manchester United.
The FA’s hiring process for a new manager will be overseen by technical director John McDermott and chief executive Mark Bullingham. Potential candidates include Mauricio Pochettino, England Under-21 manager Lee Carsley, and former England internationals Frank Lampard and Steven Gerrard
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