By Ifeyinwa Ogwo :
Gareth Southgate has officially resigned as the manager of the England Football Team, ending his eight years reign as the Three Lions manager, after he took the position in November 2016.
Addressing his fans through the Football Association website, Southgate said that it was an honour for him to play and manage the team for England.
“Managing the team meant a lot to me and as a proud Englishman, I gave my all but the time has come for a change and a new chapter. Sunday’s finals at Berlin against Spain was my last game as England Manager.
“I joined the FA in 2011 to improve the English football. At that time, including the eight years I spent as the England Men’s manager, it was a wonderful moment for me. I thank my assistant, Coach Steve Holland, and everyone who supported me all the way.”
He added, “It has been a great privilege for me to lead a large group of players for 102 games and every one of them is proud to wear the three Lions shirts.
“I am an England fan and always will be. I look forward to watching and celebrating as the players continue to create more special memories to inspire the nation,” he said.
Southgate has led England to the finals at Euro 2024 and Euro 2022, the semi-finals of the 2018 World Cup, and the quarter-finals of the 2022 World Cup.
