Gareth Southgate Officially Withdraws From The England National Team

JAKARTA - England coach Gareth Southgate officially left his post after failing to bring the Three Lions to Euro 2024.

Southgate's big decision was taken just two days later from its troop defeat in the final against Spain.

At the top of Euro 2024 which took place Monday, July 15, 2024, early morning WIB, England had to face Spain and ended in a 1-2 defeat.

After that defeat, Southgate made the decision to complete eight years of togetherness with the team.

"As a proud British man, it is an honor in my life to play for England and coach England. It means a lot to me and I have given everything," Southgate said in an official statement quoted from the FA website on Tuesday, July 16, 2024.

"However, this is the time for change and a new chapter. Sunday's final in Berlin against Spain is my last match as England coach," he said.

Southgate was first appointed coach in 2016. He was promoted by the English Football Association (FA) from England U-21 to replace Sam Allardyce.

With his status as a coach, Southgate twice led England to qualify for the finals of Euro (2020 and 2024). In the 2018 World Cup, England could move until the semifinals.

"I joined the FA in 2011, determined to increase English football. During that period, including eight years as England coach, I was supported by a number of great people."

"For that, I would like to express my deepest gratitude," said the 53-year-old coach.

"I can't have a better person next to me besides Steve Holland. He is one of the most talented coaches of his generation and is great."

"I have the honor of leading a large group of players in 102 games. Each of them is proud to wear the Three Lions on the jersey."

"They have given appreciation to their country in many ways," said the coach.

Southgate also remembers his last moment with the England national team at Euro 2024. He said that currently the Three Lions contained promising talents and made him proud.

"The squad we brought to Germany is full of interesting young talents. They can win trophies we all dreamed of."

"I am very proud of them. I hope we support the players and teams at St. George's Park."

"FA strives every day to improve English football and understands the power of football to encourage positive changes," Southgate said again.

Before ending the memories that have been created, Southgate also did not forget to thank him for the many opportunities and moments that were created with the British troops as well as all the staff in it.

"I would like to say a special thank you to the dressing room staff who have provided continuous support to the players and me over the past eight years."

"The hard work and their commitment inspire me every day. I am very grateful to them, the brilliant 'team behind the team'. We have the best fans in the world and their support means a lot to me," he said.

Although he will no longer occupy the British coaching chair, Southgate testified that he will remain a supporter who has always witnessed the growth and development of players.

"I am a British fan and I will always be like that. I look forward to watching and celebrating because the players continue to create special, connected, and inspiring memories of the nation as best we can. Thank you, England for everything," Southgate said.