Who said what? Jude Bellingham, Declan Rice and more people react as Gareth Southgate steps down as England manager
Jude Bellingham and Declan Rice were among players who reacted to Gareth Southgate stepping down as England head coach. The 53-year-old manager announced his decision to resign after 102 games and almost eight years in charge of the Three Lions.
He had led the team to two consecutive Euro finals, as well as a third place finish in the 2018 World Cup.
English midfielder Jude Bellingham made a long emotional post on Instagram following the Euro 2024 final loss, where he addressed Southgate's departure, writing:
"Finally, I’d like to thank Gareth and his staff for the great memories during his tenure. From the point of view of a fan who has become a member of the squad, it’s been a rollercoaster of amazing emotions that has instilled hope and joy back into our country.
"It was a privilege being lead by someone who is so dedicated and passionate, not only is Gareth easily one of the best coaches in the history of the national team but also an unbelievable human being. Thank you for everything and all the best in the next chapter, Gaffer," read Jude Bellingham's post.
English goalkeeper Jordan Pickford also made a post on social media where he thanked the Three Lions' former head coach and wished him the best for his future. The caption read:
"Completely gutted. This will hurt for a while. 💔 Appreciate everyone who supported us during the tournament and I’d like to thank all my teammates and staff for their work throughout. I also want to say a special thank you to the boss for always believing in me during his time with us and I would like to wish him all the best in his next steps. Thank you Gareth. 🏴"
English midfielder Declan Rice also shared a story on Instagram, as the Arsenal star wrote:
"Thank you Gaffer it's been a privilege to play for England under your guidance, memories that will stay with me forever. All the best in your new adventure"
English defender Harry Maguire made a post on Instagram dedicated to the former Middlesbrough manager, writing:
"You made us all believe again - memories that will last forever. Thankyou boss 🏴🦁"
During his eight-year tenure at the Three Lions, Gareth Southgate led the squad to be runners-up in the UEFA European Championship twice in 2020 and 2024.
Gareth Southgate's message as he resigned from the role of England's head coach
Gareth Southgate shared a message while announcing his resignation as the Three Lions head coach. The 53-year-old manager said:
"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."
Southgate concluded by 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. 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. Thank you, England – for everything."
Under Gareth Southgate's leadership, the Three Lions also ended up in third place in the UEFA Nations League third place in 2018–19.