Gareth Southgate has resigned as the England manager after his team’s 2-1 loss to Spain in the Euro 2024 final. Despite the disappointment of not winning a major trophy in his tenure, Southgate’s decision to step down was a mix of sudden shock and not entirely surprising. He expressed his pride in leading the national team and his desire for change and a new chapter in his career.
Southgate’s reign as England manager saw the team reach the later stages of major tournaments consistently, with the highlight being a narrow quarterfinal loss to France in the 2022 World Cup. Despite criticism of not being brave or imaginative enough, Southgate leaves behind a squad full of exciting young talent that has the potential to win future trophies.
The Football Association reportedly wanted Southgate to stay on until the 2026 World Cup, but he chose to depart on his terms. His meticulous approach to management, focus on culture, and loyalty to his players were hallmarks of his tenure. Southgate’s teams excelled in penalty shootouts, a rarity for England, and his departure has left players like Jordan Pickford and Harry Maguire expressing gratitude for his belief in them.
As England looks to the future, potential successors to Southgate include Eddie Howe, Graham Potter, and Mauricio Pochettino. The new manager will inherit a team on the cusp of success, with players like Jude Bellingham and Phil Foden leading the charge. While England’s quest for a major trophy continues, Southgate’s legacy as a manager who brought belief and stability to the national team will be remembered.
The nation’s relationship with its men’s national team remains complex, with Southgate’s departure marking the end of an era that saw England come close to glory. As the search for a new manager begins, the focus shifts to building on the foundation laid by Southgate and taking the team to the next level. The future holds promise for English football, with hopes of finally ending the long wait for a major trophy.