July 16 – Two days after the heartbreak of losing the final of Euro 2024, England manager Gareth Southgate resigned today calling for a “new chapter” for the national team.
The most successful England manager since Sir Alf Ramsey, under whom England won their only senior men’s trophy – the 1966 World Cup – Southgate oversaw 102 England matches in a near eight-year reign, transforming the fortunes of the team with back-to-back Euro finals and a World Cup semi.
His contract was set to expire later this year but he pre-empted any talk of extending it in a passionate, heartfelt farewell statement declaring it was “time for change”.
“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,” Southgate said.
“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.”
Euro 2024 was Southgate’s fourth major tournament in charge of England but arguably the toughest given all the expectations. He was heavily criticised for his team selections and style of play and even had empty beers cups thrown at him after the 0-0 draw with Slovakia.
Jude Bellingham’s overhead kick saved England in the round of 16, with Southgate seemingly seconds away from getting the sack, before captain Harry Kane scored the winner against Slovakia.
Five perfect penalties then saw off Switzerland in the quarter-finals while Ollie Watkins was the hero of the semi-final against the Netherlands.
Come the final, it was a step too far against a side that had won all of their previous six matches. Spain outplayed England but throughout the tournament there were concerns that Southgate had been unable to get the best out of a dazzlingly talented squad.
“The squad we took to Germany is full of exciting young talent and they can win the trophy we all dream of,” Southgate continued. “I am so…
Source link : https://www.insideworldfootball.com/2024/07/16/southgate-subs-england-line-saying-time-new-chapter/
Author : Paul Nicholson
Publish date : 2024-07-16 10:44:30
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