Gareth Southgate has decided to step down as England boss less than 48 hours after losing the Euro 2024 final at the hands of Spain.
England reached a second successive European Championship final and were looking to exorcise some demons from the 2021 defeat to Italy.
Sadly, it just wasn’t to be for England once again as Spain ran out 2-1 winners in Berlin.
Cole Palmer dragged England level in the final but Mikel Oyarzabal’s late winner handed Spain the victory.
Speculation has surrounded Gareth Southgate’s future for months now, with many expecting him to leave this summer – no matter how the tournament panned out.
Southgate has now confirmed his decision, announcing that he will be standing down as England boss.
Gary Neville on Gareth Southgate exit
Southgate leaves after taking charge of 102 games, winning 61 times and losing just 17 after replacing Sam Allardyce.
The 53-year-old’s record in major tournaments was hugely impressive given England’s previous results.
Two finals, one semi-final and one quarter-final means Southgate is a tricky manager to follow for whoever comes in.
Southgate has also changed the entire atmosphere around supporting England, creating a strong bond after years of disillusion.
Gary Neville has now shared his reaction to the news that Southgate is moving on.
Neville posted just eight words – ‘Thank you Gareth you did a great job’.
Some fans may feel that Southgate came up short with incredible talent around him, but it’s important to remember England’s dire record before his arrival.
Southgate leaves with the love and respect of most England supporters and Neville’s thoughts will be mirrored by many up and down the country.
Who could replace Southgate?
HITC understands that The FA have been bracing for Southgate’s departure and have been doing due diligence on a number of potential replacements.
Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe is one target for England but luring him away from St James’ Park won’t be easy.
Graham Potter is a more easily-available target with the former Chelsea boss still out of work after links to Ajax and Leicester City amounted to nothing.
England could replicate Southgate’s move from the Under-21’s to the senior side by promoting Lee Carsley, with the former Everton midfielder in contention.
There are a number of big-name managers available right now, such as Mauricio Pochettino, Thomas Tuchel and even Jurgen Klopp if the FA go down the route of appointing a foreign coach.
The search for Southgate’s successor is now on though and he will be a tough act to follow in the coming years.
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