Gareth Southgate has officially stepped down as England manager after an eight-year tenure, following the team’s defeat in the Euro 2024 final. Despite the Football Association’s (FA) hopes of extending his contract, Southgate has decided to pursue new challenges.
“As a proud Englishman, it has been the honour of my life to play for England and to manage England,” Southgate stated. “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.”
At 53, Southgate leaves as England’s most consistently successful manager in major tournaments, having led the team to the Euro 2021 final, a World Cup semi-final in 2018, and a World Cup quarter-final in 2022.
The FA is now considering several high-profile candidates to succeed Southgate. Newcastle’s Eddie Howe, and former Chelsea managers Graham Potter, Thomas Tuchel, and Mauricio Pochettino are top contenders. Howe has previously expressed interest in the England job, viewing it as the “ultimate” role. England’s next matches are against the Republic of Ireland and Finland in the Nations League this September.
Southgate expressed confidence in the current squad: “The squad we took to Germany is full of exciting young talent and they can win the trophy we all dream of. I am so proud of them, and I hope we get behind the players and the team at St.. George’s Park and the FA who strive every day to improve English football. And understand the power football has to drive positive change.”
Although Southgate had signed a contract until December to allow time for reflection post-Euro 2024, he quickly decided to step down. His tenure saw immense pressure during the Euros. Especially after poor performances in the group stage and the last 16 against Slovakia. Following a 0-0 draw with Slovenia, Southgate faced boos and criticism but understood the scrutiny.
Southgate began his role as England manager in September 2016 on a caretaker basis following Sam Allardyce’s sudden departure. He had hinted that his tenure might end if England did not secure victory in Germany.
His achievements have not gone unnoticed, with Manchester United reportedly showing interest despite recently extending Erik ten Hag’s contract. Southgate’s only previous club management role was with Middlesbrough from 2006-09.
Potential candidates for the England manager position also include England Under-21 manager Lee Carsley, and former internationals Frank Lampard and Steven Gerrard. The hiring process will be led by FA’s technical director, John McDermott, and chief executive, Mark Bullingham.
“Gareth has made the impossible job possible and laid strong foundations for future success,” Bullingham remarked. “He is held in the highest regard by the players, the backroom team, by everyone at the FA and across the world of football. We are very proud of everything Gareth and Steve achieved for England, and will be forever grateful to them. The process for appointing Gareth’s successor is now under way.”
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