England men’s national football team have announced that head coach Gareth Southgate has stepped down from his role following Euro 2024.
The 53-year-old’s final game in charge of the Three Lions came in the final of Euro 2024, which ended in a 2-1 defeat at the hands of Spain.
Goals from Nico Williams and Mikel Oyarzabal ended England’s hopes of winning silverware this summer, despite Cole Palmer’s effort in the second half that drew the side level.
Southgate’s reign ends after almost eight years in the job, with 102 games managed across that time.
The former player – who featured for England from 1995-2004 – guided the team into the World Cup in 2018 and manoeuvred a magical run that resulted in a semi-final appearance.
Fast forward to Euro 2020, and there was belief that the Three Lions could end their wait for a trophy, with a run to the final that ended in defeat to Italy on penalties.
World Cup 2022 had its challenges, with France knocking England out in the quarter-final stages in a narrow encounter.
That then brought about Euro 2024, which had plenty of pressure surrounding the desire for silverware.
Tough performances brought about questions over Southgate’s future, but another appearance in a final secured his record as one of the England national team’s greatest-ever managers.
Gareth Southgate leaves England role
The England national team confirmed that Southgate would be leaving his role, with a message that simply read: “Thank you, Gareth.”
In a statement on the England football website, the departing manager said: “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.
“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.”
“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.”
England next manager
It remains to be seen who will succeed Southgate in his role as England manager, with some big shoes for the next coach to fill.
There is growing expectation surrounding the position, with fans craving for that trophy that will end the years of waiting.
Graham Potter and Eddie Howe have been touted with potential moves into the role in the past, while high-profile options such as Jurgen Klopp and Mauricio Pochettino are currently out of work.
There’s the chance to be promoted from within the FA hierarchy, with England under-21s coach Lee Carsley a potential option.
With the next set of England fixtures set to take place in the September international break, there are some huge decisions to be made in the coming weeks.