Sir Gareth Southgate, recently knighted for his services to football, believes the England team has "broken down so many barriers to winning" during his eight-year tenure as manager. He received the honor from the Prince of Wales at Windsor Castle on Wednesday, June 25, 2025.
Southgate, who stepped down as England manager in July 2024 following a 2-1 defeat to Spain in the Euro 2024 final, reflected on his time in charge, highlighting the progress made despite not achieving the ultimate goal of winning a major tournament. He led England to the 2018 World Cup semi-finals and consecutive European Championship finals in 2020 and 2024. He is the fourth England boss to be knighted, following Sir Walter Winterbottom, Sir Alf Ramsey and Sir Bobby Robson, and the only manager to lead the England men's team to two major tournament finals.
While acknowledging the disappointment of not securing a trophy, Southgate emphasized the significant strides made in transforming the team's culture and mentality. He believes the foundations are now in place for future success under his successor, Thomas Tuchel, ahead of the next World Cup.
"We've broken down so many barriers to winning," Southgate told the PA news agency. "Ultimately we didn't quite get to where we wanted to, but we're in a great position now to take things forward."
Southgate's appointment as England manager in November 2016 marked a turning point for the national team. Taking over from an interim role, he successfully guided England to the 2018 World Cup in Russia. Before his promotion to the senior team, Southgate served as the England U21s head coach from September 2013.
Under Southgate's leadership, England ended a 55-year wait for a men's final at Euro 2020, which was delayed by 12 months due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Despite a heartbreaking penalty shootout defeat to Italy at Wembley, the tournament showcased England's progress and renewed optimism among fans.
Reflecting on the squad's chances at the upcoming World Cup, Southgate expressed confidence in the players and staff. "What I learned doing the job is it's important that people on the outside respect the space inside, so best that I stay out of the way and let them get on with it," he said. "They're a brilliant group of players and staff to work with, and I wouldn't be here without everything they contributed and helped me with, so I hope they can go the next step.”
Southgate's legacy extends beyond on-field results. He is credited with fostering a positive and inclusive team environment, promoting young talent, and reconnecting the national team with the nation. His contributions to English football have been widely recognized, culminating in his recent knighthood. He managed the England team for 102 games.
Looking ahead, Southgate expressed his excitement about watching the team's progress from afar. "I'm an England fan and I always will be," he stated, signaling his continued support for the Three Lions.
