Gareth Southgate has announced his departure as manager of England’s men’s team, following the team’s defeat to Spain in the Euro 2024 final.

In an emotional statement, Southgate expressed his gratitude to the players, staff, and fans, saying, “As a proud Englishman, it has been the honour of my life to play for England and to manage England. It has meant everything to me, and I have given it my all.”

Southgate reflected on his eight-year tenure, highlighting the team’s progress and his pride in leading a talented group of players. “The squad we took to Germany is full of exciting young talent and they can win the trophy we all dream of. I am so proud of them,” he said.

Southgate extended his appreciation to his coaching staff, particularly Steve Holland, and the backroom staff, describing them as “the brilliant ‘team behind the team’.” He also thanked the fans, saying, “We have the best fans in the world, and their support has meant the world to me. I’m an England fan and I always will be.”

Southgate’s departure marks the end of an era, but he remains optimistic about the team’s future. “I look forward to watching and celebrating as the players go on to create more special memories and to connect and inspire the nation as we know they can.” The FA will begin searching for a successor immediately, with Southgate’s contract initially set to expire in December.

“As a proud Englishman, it has been the honour of my life to play for England and to manage England. It has meant everything to me, and I have given it my all. But it’s time for change, and for a new chapter. Sunday’s final in Berlin against Spain was my final game as England manager… Thank you, England – for everything.”

After 102 games and almost eight years in charge, Gareth Southgate has announced he is to leave his role as manager of the #ThreeLions.

— England (@England) July 16, 2024

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The winner of the UEFA Euro 2024 Player of the Tournament was confirmed in an official announcement after the final game of the competition.

Spain achieved a double triumph in the Euro 2024 individual awards, with Rodri winning the Player of the Tournament prize and Lamine Yamal taking home the Young Player of the Tournament award.

🏆 Player of the Tournament: Rodri #EURO2024 pic.twitter.com/sxKEu8Fe4h

— UEFA EURO 2024 (@EURO2024) July 14, 2024

🏆 Young Player of the Tournament: Lamine Yamal #EURO2024 pic.twitter.com/Mb8HEU2alr

— UEFA EURO 2024 (@EURO2024) July 14, 2024

Luis de la Fuente’s side were the best team from start to finish this summer, leaving little room for complaints about their success in Germany.

Manchester City midfielder Rodri continued his ruthless run of glory with an unbeaten summer. His campaign nearly hit a snag when he was substituted at halftime in the final against England, likely due to injury. However, missing the all-important final 45 minutes did not tarnish his reputation, as Rodri ultimately secured the Player of the Tournament prize.

Yamal had been among the favourites to win the overall individual award but was always expected to secure the Young Player of the Tournament trophy. The teenager, who broke Pelé’s record as the youngest male starter in a major tournament final, dazzled throughout the competition, finishing with four assists and a stunning strike in the semi-final.

The world is at his feet 🌍#EURO2024 pic.twitter.com/ylFyJwq0YP

— UEFA EURO 2024 (@EURO2024) July 14, 2024

Truthfully, there were several Spain players deserving of individual honours at the end of this impressive campaign. Fabian Ruiz and Dani Olmo both shone in midfield, while Athletic Club winger Nico Williams concluded his tournament with a goal in the final.

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Berlin, Germany – In a thrilling finale at the Olympiastadion, Spain edged out England 2-1 to claim their record fourth European championship title.

The match came alive in the second half, with all three goals scored in a tense and dramatic encounter.

The opening half saw England’s defense hold strong, containing Spain’s attacking threats. Luke Shaw, who replaced Kieran Trippier at left-back, effectively neutralized Lamine Yamal’s impact.

Despite Rodri’s withdrawal at halftime, Spain struggled to break through England’s resilient defense.

However, Spain’s persistence paid off early in the second half. A well-crafted move involving Yamal and Nico Williams resulted in the latter scoring at the far post. England’s response came just shy of the 20-minute mark, with Cole Palmer expertly finishing a swift counter-attack initiated by Bukayo Saka.

In the final five minutes, Spain regained the lead through Mikel Oyarzabal’s first-time finish from Marc Cucurella’s cross. England pushed hard for an equalizer, with Unai Simon denying Declan Rice’s header and Dani Olmo clearing Marc Guehi’s rebound off the line. Spain held on through added time to secure their historic triumph.

• England’s Wait for Silverware Continues

England’s search for a major trophy extends to 57 years, since their 1966 FIFA World Cup victory. Spain, meanwhile, celebrates their fourth European championship title, cementing their status as a dominant force in international football.

“We knew it would be a tough game, but we believed in our abilities,” said Spain’s coach. “Our players showed great character and determination to win.”

“We gave it our all, but it just wasn’t our day,” lamented England’s manager. “We’ll learn from this and come back stronger.”

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In a shocking twist, Luke Shaw is expected to start for England in the Euro 2024 final against Spain, replacing Kieran Trippier. Shaw, who overcame a long-term injury to feature in England’s last two matches as a substitute, will make his first start of the tournament.

Manager Gareth Southgate had earlier indicated that Trippier would be fit to play despite picking up a knock in the semi-final against the Netherlands. However, Southgate has opted for Shaw, who scored in the Euro 2020 final against Italy.

According to The Telegraph, Southgate believes Shaw’s natural comfort on the left side of the field could be crucial to England’s chances of winning the trophy. Shaw will face the daunting task of containing Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal, one of the top performers at the tournament.

The decision raises questions about England’s defensive setup, with Southgate considering a return to a four-man defence or sticking with the 3-4-2-1 formation that has brought success in the knockout stages.

In a lighthearted moment, Manchester United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe joked about Shaw’s hamstring concerns, urging him to take care of his hamstrings after a long spell on the sidelines.

Shaw’s surprise start has added an extra layer of excitement to the highly anticipated Euro 2024 final.

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Gareth Southgate warned England that they must be “perfect” to beat a “bloody good” Spanish side in the Euro 2024 final.

Acknowledging Spain as the favourites, Southgate emphasised that England must be at their absolute best to end their 58-year title drought.

La Roja have been the standout team of the tournament, consistently delivering top-notch performances from the group stages to the semi-finals.

Their impressive run includes victories over pre-tournament favourites France, defending champions Italy, Croatia, and hosts Germany – prompting Southgate to urge his players to be flawless in their execution to overcome such a well-organised and skilful opponent.

“They would be rightly favourites for what they have done this tournament,” Southgate told reporters. “They have been the best team. They have got a day longer and in the last three finals, maybe more, it has been quite significant so we have got to get our recovery spot on. Tactically we will have to be perfect as they are such a good side.

“They are a bloody good side. Let’s pitch it right. We have got to be perfect to win this game and we will have to find everything that we have got from within us.”

Victory over the Netherlands was a testament to Southgate’s brilliant tactical acumen and the depth of his squad. He made changes just in time, with substitutes Ollie Watkins and Cole Palmer playing pivotal roles for the decisive 90th-minute winner that fired England to their second consecutive European Championship final. The manager is elated with the perseverance of his bench players and hailed those who have patiently waited for their opportunity to shine.

“We are in a first final ever overseas,” Southgate added. “I am more pleased for the players who have come in and had their moments. That is the key.

“When somebody trains the way Ollie has consistently and the whole group. Not one of them has let their heads drop even though every time you pick a team you are leaving 15 out. That is not easy to keep going but it is a huge strength we have got.”

As the final approaches, the importance of tactical discipline and mental fortitude cannot be overstated. The match against Spain in Berlin offers a chance to end decades of disappointment and secure a historic victory.

The memory of the narrow loss to Italy in the Euro 2020 final still lingers, adding extra motivation for the team to exorcise the ghosts of the past and achieve glory this time around.

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Spain secured their place in the final of Euro 2024 with a 2-1 victory over France in Munich on July 9, 2024.

Les Bleus took an early lead, but their advantage was quickly overturned by a resurgent La Roja side, who responded swiftly to turn the game around.

Luis de la Fuente’s men will now face either England or the Netherlands, who play in Dortmund on Wednesday, in the final at Berlin’s Olympiastadion this Sunday.

France opened the scoring in the ninth minute when Ousmane Dembele dribbled in from the right flank and found Kylian Mbappe on the opposite wing. Mbappe delivered a perfect cross to Randal Kolo Muani, who got past defender Aymeric Laporte and headed his team in front.

However, France’s lead lasted only 12 minutes. Spain’s Lamine Yamal received the ball 25 yards out, moved infield, and unleashed a looping strike over goalkeeper Mike Maignan, making history as the youngest scorer in the European Championships.

Spain took the lead soon after when Dani Olmo’s low strike deflected off Jules Kounde and into the net after France failed to clear their lines in their own box.

Didier Deschamps made several attacking substitutions early in the second half in an attempt to regain control, but France could only create half-chances.

Spain’s progression to the final was confirmed after five minutes of stoppage time, ending France’s hopes of a first European title in 24 years.

A sensational goal from 16-year-old phenomenon Lamine Yamal helped Spain come from behind to beat France 2-1 in Munich and secure their place in the Euro 2024 final. Yamal became the youngest player to score at a European Championship or World Cup, surpassing the record previously held by Brazil legend Pele, with his stunning 25-yard effort.

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In a tightly contested quarter-final at Euro 2024, France edged past Portugal in a penalty shootout to secure a spot in the semi-finals. The match, which remained goalless after a lackluster 120 minutes of play, saw Joao Felix miss his penalty, proving decisive as Portugal bowed out of the tournament.

France, who have yet to score or concede from open play throughout the competition, now prepare to face Spain in the semi-finals. The game featured few clear-cut chances, with both teams resorting to long-range efforts in a cautious first half.

🇫🇷 France are faultless in the penalty shootout to advance 👏#EURO2024 | #PORFRA pic.twitter.com/6jdxFKs3XM

— UEFA EURO 2024 (@EURO2024) July 5, 2024

Portugal’s hopes were dashed, sealing their fate in the shootout. Despite late efforts from both sides in extra time, including a missed chance by Cristiano Ronaldo and a close header from Joao Felix hitting the side-netting, France held their nerve to advance.

The match underscored France’s resilience and defensive solidity, setting the stage for an exciting clash against Spain in the next round of Euro 2024.

Penalties

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A dramatic goal by Mikel Merino in extra time gave Spain a thrilling 2-1 victory over Germany in the quarter-finals of the European Championship on Friday. The match, held at the Stuttgart Arena, featured a clash between two of the most successful nations in the tournament’s history.

As the game neared the 119th minute, with the prospect of a penalty shootout looming, substitute Merino rose to the occasion, heading in the winning goal from a precise Dani Olmo cross. This last-minute strike left the home crowd in Stuttgart heartbroken and secured Spain’s spot in the semi-finals.

The first half ended scoreless, but Spain took the lead six minutes into the second half when Olmo fired a first-time shot into the bottom corner. Germany, however, equalized in dramatic fashion with a goal from Florian Wirtz in the 89th minute, pushing the game into extra time.

Spain’s triumph marked a historic moment, as they became the first nation to eliminate the hosts at the quarter-final stage of the European Championship. Merino, who had a stint with Newcastle United during the 2017/18 season, was the hero with his crucial header.

Spain will now face either France or Portugal in the semi-finals, with their next match set for Tuesday night in Munich. Despite Germany’s relentless efforts to find a late equalizer, Spain’s defense held firm, securing their advancement to the last four.

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• Mattia Zaccagni strikes at death to crush Croatia and send Italy through to last 16

• Spain complete perfect Euro 2024 group stage as Albania go out

Spain continued their flawless start to Euro 2024 with a 1-0 victory over Albania on Monday, securing their third consecutive win in the tournament. Ferran Torres’ superb strike in the 13th minute, assisted by Dani Olmo, was enough to seal the win.

Spain, already qualified for the last 16, dominated the match with Torres, Mikel Merino, and Joselu coming close to scoring. Despite Albania’s spirited efforts, with Kristjan Asllani and Armando Broja testing Spanish keeper David Raya, they were unable to find the net. This result sees Spain top Group B, while Albania exits the tournament.

In the other Group B match, Italy secured a dramatic 1-1 draw against Croatia, earning them a place in the last 16 as group runners-up. The match was tightly contested, with Croatia’s Luka Modric having a penalty saved by Gianluigi Donnarumma in the 54th minute. However, Modric quickly redeemed himself by scoring the rebound, becoming the oldest scorer in European Championship history at 38 years and 289 days.

Italy fought back and, in added time, Mattia Zaccagni scored a stunning equalizer from distance, breaking Croatian hearts and ensuring Italy’s progression. Croatia, with two points, now awaits the results from other groups to see if they can advance as one of the best third-placed teams.

Spain topped Group B with nine points, Italy followed with four points, and Croatia finished third with two points. Albania, finishing last with one point, has been eliminated. This result guarantees that England, France, and the Netherlands will finish at least among the best four third-placed teams, securing their spots in the knockout stages.

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Toni Kroos has announced his decision to retire from professional football this summer, a move he made to avoid becoming a burden to Real Madrid.

The 34-year-old midfielder, who had the option to extend his contract by another year, chose instead to hang up his boots after the Euro 2024 tournament.

Kroos shared his thoughts on his podcast, “Einfach mal Luppen,” revealing that he had considered retirement last summer but wanted to finish his career on a high note.

He expressed a long-standing desire to end his career at Real Madrid, a club he has been deeply connected to since joining in 2014.

“Anyone who has listened carefully to me in recent years will have heard me say at some point that the only option for me is to finish my career at Real Madrid,” he said. “My last season at Real means that this summer will be the end.

“Even outside of sports, I think it was probably the most difficult decision of my life. Thank God I haven’t had to make a more difficult decision in my private life.

To start football at the age of six and manage it to a certain extent until you are 34…it is a very, very serious decision if football has always been at the centre of your life. That is why it is not so easy.

“I was already a little bit at the point of making this decision a year ago. So it was already made. But I had also been thinking about it for a long time.

In retrospect, I have to say that it was the right decision to continue another year, because things have really turned out as I hoped. I stayed healthy, it wasn’t too much for my body, it was another full season without injuries.

Plus, I had a lot of fun in most of the games, I managed to maintain my level and we were successful as a team.

“That’s always a big goal when you think about retiring, that you want to retire successfully. Even before the Champions League final, I can say that it has been a successful season. Now, it seems like the perfect time.

“I never wanted to have the feeling that the club, the fans and the people around me had to tell me ‘it’s over’ at the end, or that I would end up sitting here on the bench for another two or three years. That, in some ways, wouldn’t be worthy of a career, so I’m glad, happy and a little proud that I was able to avoid all those things. It’s a nice feeling.”

Toni Kroos expressed his gratitude towards those who have honored his career, including his teammate Luka Modric.

He also extended his appreciation to Real Madrid for allowing him the time and space to make this significant decision about his future.

“Since last year, and now with the various projects that I have built and am building on the side, I can perfectly imagine life without football,” he explained. “That does not mean that I will not miss it, but I will miss it if I leave now, in a year or in five years. Clearly, at some point, this big change was coming.

“I look at the positives: more time at home, fewer trips and stays in hotels…that’s what I have during a season like this. In addition to all the fun and victories, you also get these feelings. Ten or so trips a year where you think, ‘wow, that seems like ten wasted days’, or that you travel three days for a 90-minute game: ‘I’m travelling for three days, in a hotel, what could I do at home in that time?’.

“These thoughts have been on my mind for a whole. I’m looking forward to having some time to myself and more time at home.

“The timing is good because it is a fact that I made this decision myself. I could make it myself at any time, it was not made for me or about me. This feeling is very important, that of having it in your own hands, which is not always the case.

“Ten years is a long time. I wouldn’t have thought about it when I signed [for Madrid]. Because I also know that if you don’t perform consistently, the average life in such clubs sometimes is not long. I embarked on a brutal adventure. It wasn’t just about going to the biggest club in the world. Going abroad with such a small family is a big step.”

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The UEFA European Championships 2024 group stage draw has been conducted, setting the stage for the tournament. The draw took place in Hamburg, and here are the groups:

Group A:
– Germany
– Hungary
– Scotland
– Switzerland

Group B:
– Spain
– Albania
– Croatia
– Italy

Group C:
– England
– Denmark
– Slovenia
– Serbia

Group D:
– France
– Austria
– Netherlands
– Play-off winner A (Poland, Estonia, Wales, or Finland)

Group E:
– Belgium
– Romania
– Slovakia
– Play-off winner B (Israel, Iceland, Bosnia-Herzegovina, or Ukraine)

Group F:
– Portugal
– Turkey
– Czech Republic
– Play-off winner C (Georgia, Luxembourg, Greece, or Kazakhstan)

The tournament is set to begin on June 14, 2024, with Germany hosting Scotland at the Allianz Arena at 8 p.m. BST. The top two teams from each group will advance to the last 16, joined by the four best third-place teams. The remaining three finalists will be confirmed in March after the conclusion of the play-offs.

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