Image: COURTESY
England manager Gareth Southgate resigned two days after defeat by Spain in the 2024 European Championship final.
The Three Lions lost 2-1 in Berlin on Sunday, their second consecutive Euros final defeat, having been beaten on penalties by Italy at Wembley three years ago.
Southgate managed his country for 102 games in eight years in charge. His contract was set to expire later this year.
"As a proud Englishman, it has been the honor of my life to play for England and to manage England," said Southgate.
"It has meant everything to me, and I have given it my all but it's time for change, and for a new chapter."
Lets look on a quick profile of who he is.
Gareth Southgate was born on 3rd September 1970 in Watford, Hertfordshire, England. He was born to an English professional football manager and former player.
Early Life and Playing Career
Southgate began his youth career at Crystal Palace, joining their academy and progressing through the ranks.
Professional Debut
He made his professional debut for Crystal Palace in 1988, primarily playing as a right-back before transitioning to a central defender and occasionally a defensive midfielder.
Crystal Palace (1988-1995):
Southgate made over 150 appearances for Crystal Palace, helping them win the First Division (now the Championship) in the 1993-94 season and earn promotion to the Premier League.-
Aston Villa (1995-2001):
He moved to Aston Villa in 1995, where he became an integral part of the team. During his time at Villa, he won the League Cup in 1996 and captained the team.
Middlesbrough (2001-2006): Southgate joined Middlesbrough in 2001, where he played until his retirement in 2006. He captained the team to a League Cup victory in 2004 and reached the UEFA Cup final in 2006.### International Career.
England National Team (1995-2004):
Southgate earned 57 caps for England, representing his country in the UEFA European Championships in 1996 and 2000, as well as the FIFA World Cup in 1998. He is remembered for missing a crucial penalty in the Euro 1996 semi-final shootout against Germany.
Managerial Career
Middlesbrough (2006-2009):
After retiring as a player, Southgate immediately took on the role of manager at Middlesbrough. He managed the team for three years but was dismissed in 2009 following relegation from the Premier League.
England U21 (2013-2016):
Southgate was appointed manager of the England Under-21 team in 2013. Under his management, the team performed well, and he was praised for his development of young talent.
England National Team (2016-present):
In 2016, Southgate was appointed interim manager of the England national team after Sam Allardyce's departure, later being confirmed as the permanent manager. Under his leadership:
2018 FIFA World cup: Southgate led England to the semi-finals, their best performance in a World Cup since 1990.
UEFA Euro 2020:England reached the final, their first appearance in a major tournament final since 1966, but were defeated by Italy in a penalty shootout.
UEFA Nations League: Southgate has also guided England to the semi-finals of the UEFA Nations League.
Personal Life
Gareth Southgate is married to Alison Southgate, and they have two children. Known for his calm demeanor and thoughtful approach, Southgate has been praised for his leadership qualities and ability to foster a positive team culture.
His managerial style emphasizes tactical discipline, youth development, and mental resilience.
Awards and Honors
Order of the British Empire (OBE): Southgate was awarded an OBE in 2019 for services to football.
He has received several accolades for his performance as England manager, including being named Coach of the Year at the BBC Sports Personality of the Year awards.
