Gareth Southgate announced his resignation as England manager on Tuesday, following their loss to Spain in the Euro 2024 final. "It's time for a change and a new chapter. Sunday's final in Berlin against Spain marked my last game as England manager," Southgate stated.
Potential successors to the 53-year-old Southgate include Newcastle's Eddie Howe and former Chelsea managers Graham Potter and Mauricio Pochettino. Football Association CEO Mark Bullingham praised Southgate for making the challenging role achievable.
Southgate assumed the role in 2016 during a period of low morale for England, following their exit from the Euros due to a loss to Iceland and the subsequent scandal involving Sam Allardyce. Under his leadership, England reached three semi-finals and two finals in the last four tournaments.
Before Southgate's tenure, England had only reached three major tournament semi-finals and one final, winning the 1966 World Cup. Despite transforming the team's fortunes, Southgate could not secure a trophy, with England losing 2-1 to Spain on Sunday.
Bullingham highlighted Southgate's impact, stating, "Gareth has made the impossible job possible and laid strong foundations for future success. In his four tournaments, we have won nine knockout games, more than in the previous 50 years." Southgate also restored pride and turned the players into role models off the pitch.
Reflecting on his tenure, Southgate expressed, "As a proud Englishman, it has been the honor of my life to play for and manage England. It has meant everything to me, and I have given it my all."
