Nidhish Waghmare
Sir Gareth Southgate has revealed he does not miss managing the England national team, nearly a year after stepping down following the team’s Euro 2024 final defeat to Spain. The 54-year-old, who led England to two European Championship finals and a World Cup semi-final, said the “weight” of the job was immense and stepping away has brought relief.
“It’s a little bit strange [watching the team] but also I’m not missing it,” Southgate told BBC Sport. “It’s theirs to take on now.”
Southgate’s tenure, which began in 2016, saw England reach new heights, including a fourth-place finish at the 2018 World Cup—their best since 1990. Despite falling short of silverware, his leadership brought consistency and belief back to the national side.
A Knighthood and a New Chapter
Southgate was recently knighted for his services to English football, becoming only the fourth England manager to receive the honour after Sir Walter Winterbottom, Sir Alf Ramsey, and Sir Bobby Robson.
“It’s an amazing privilege… I was more emotional than I thought I would be,” he said after receiving the honour from Prince William at Windsor Castle.
Reflecting on his time in charge, Southgate admitted the job consumed his every thought: “Every hour of my day was thinking about how do I make England better… until that weight’s gone, you don’t realise it.”
Tuchel Takes Over, Southgate Steps Back
Southgate was succeeded by German coach Thomas Tuchel, who has won all three of his World Cup qualifiers so far. However, Tuchel stirred controversy by suggesting Southgate’s England lacked identity and played with fear during Euro 2024.
Southgate, ever composed, declined to respond directly: “I don’t think it’s important how I took it… It’s time for them to take it forward now and I’ll be a fan at home supporting it.”
His dignified exit and refusal to engage in public criticism highlight the grace with which he led the national team.
Legacy of a Modern England Manager
Though he didn’t lift a trophy, Southgate’s legacy is undeniable. He restored pride in the England shirt, fostered a strong team culture, and brought the nation within touching distance of glory.
As England look ahead under Tuchel, Southgate’s influence will remain a benchmark for leadership and integrity in international football.
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