England manager Gareth Southgate has resigned following a second consecutive European Championship final defeat. The Three Lions were beaten 2-1 by Spain in Berlin on Sunday, adding to their previous loss to Italy on penalties at Wembley three years ago.
The 53-year-old managed England for 102 games over eight years. His contract was set to expire later this year.
“As a proud Englishman, it has been the honour of my life to play for England and to manage England,” Southgate said. “It has meant everything to me, and I have given it my all. But it’s time for change, and for a new chapter.”
Southgate is one of the few managers, alongside 1966 World Cup winner Sir Alf Ramsey, to lead the England men’s team to a major tournament final. He managed England at four major tournaments, reaching the World Cup semi-finals in 2018 and quarter-finals in 2022.
Pressure had mounted on him this summer, with many fans believing he was not getting enough out of a talented group of attacking players. Some supporters even threw plastic cups at him after the 0-0 draw with Slovenia, which secured England’s place in the knockout phase. However, he regained some support with their run to the final.
“The squad we took to Germany is full of exciting young talent and they can win the trophy we all dream of,” Southgate added. “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.”
