Gareth Southgate has been knighted in the 2025 New Year Honours list, solidifying his status as one of England’s most influential football managers.
Southgate, who served as England’s manager for eight years, joins Sir Alf Ramsey as one of only two England managers to lead the men’s team to a major tournament final.
Under his stewardship, England reached the European Championship final twice, narrowly losing to Italy on penalties in 2021 and succumbing to Spain in the Euro 2024 final in Berlin. Following the latter, Southgate stepped down from his role.
Expressing his gratitude, Sir Gareth shared on LinkedIn:
“I’m deeply grateful for all the kind messages and comments I’ve received since the announcement of my Knighthood. Representing my country as a player and manager over 20 years has been an incredible honour. I owe so much to the amazing people and teams who supported me, both on and off the field.
“My family’s unwavering love and encouragement mean the world, though they’ve made it clear my titles at home remain unchanged.”
At 54, Southgate leaves behind a remarkable legacy. Under his guidance, England reached the World Cup semi-finals in 2018 and the quarter-finals in 2022. The team achieved nine knockout wins at major tournaments during his tenure—surpassing the total from the five decades prior to his appointment in 2016.
Southgate concluded his England managerial career with an impressive record of 61 wins, 24 draws, and 17 losses from 102 games, leaving a legacy of pride and progress for the Three Lions.
