Gareth Southgate has resigned as England manager following defeat to Spain in the Euro 2024 final, two days earlier.
England’s fortunes were at a low ebb when Southgate took over in 2016.
In his last four tournaments he guided England to three semi-finals and two finals.
Before Southgate, England has only got to three major tournament semi-finals in their history and just one final (1966 won the Wolrd Cup).
The 53-year-old said: “As an Englishman, it is the ultimate honour to represent your country and as a manager of England they will always be very special memories.
The statement, in full: “It has been the greatest honour of my life to lead the England football team and I am so proud having worn the Three Lions on 58 occasions. I hope I have betrayed none of that trust, because this gesture from Mark and all he has done for us – it means more to me than anything in the world.
But the time has come for something and someone new. It was the last match for me as an England manager, a final on Sunday in Berlin against Spain.
I came into the FA in 2011 determined to make a difference for English football. Over that period, eight years longer for me as England men’s manager I have been blessed with some fantastic people who are owed a debt of gratitude.
There is nobody I could have worked with better than Steve Holland. One of the best, most talented coaches in a long generation and has just been immense.
I have been lucky enough to manage 102 games of rugby, and had up to 30 players in various management teams. Every one of them has worn the three lions on their shirts with pride and they have done their country proud in so many ways.
The squad we took to Germany is brimming with exciting young talent and they have the ability to lift that trophy we all want. I am so proud of them, and I hope we will get behind the players and coach that are going to take England on in St George’s Park and at The FA & hunt every single day to make English football better AND understand what football has THE power 2 do re: change.
‘Most importantly, I would like to express all of my gratitude towards the loyal backroom staff they have supported myself and the players with throughout over past 8 years. I was fortunate to have been surrounded by them — the remarkable “team behind the team” — working tirelessly and dedicatedly for me each day.
I felt so fortunate to be cheered on by the best fans in the world, and their support meant everything. Yes, I am an England supporter and always will be.
I cant wait to watch and celebrate as Sitaleki, Akipulu, Seta, Muliaganapua unleash some more special memories and unite & inspire the nation like we know they can.
“England — you have been awesome, amazing.
