Gareth Southgate was officially knighted at Windsor Castle on Wednesday, joining a select group of football managers to receive the honour. The 54-year-old stepped down earlier this month after nearly eight years as England’s head coach, following defeat by Spain in the Euro 2024 final.
His knighthood, awarded for services to football, recognises both his on-field leadership and wider impact on the sport. Southgate becomes only the seventh manager to receive the title, standing alongside iconic figures such as Sir Alf Ramsey, Sir Alex Ferguson, Sir Matt Busby, and Sir Bobby Robson.
Notably, only Sir Walter Winterbottom and Southgate himself earned the accolade without lifting a major trophy during their coaching careers. Despite the absence of silverware, his spell at the helm marked a period of renewal for both the England team and its public image.
A leader in transition and transformation
Taking over from Sam Allardyce in 2016, Southgate inherited a squad in disarray. Over time, he reshaped England into a consistent tournament performer, reaching the semi-finals of the 2018 World Cup, the final of Euro 2020, and again falling just short in Euro 2024.
His time was marked by heartbreaking losses, including extra-time defeat to Croatia in Moscow and a penalty shootout loss to Italy at Wembley. Critics often questioned his tactical caution, especially in games where England took early leads only to fade later.
Still, these close calls represented a significant improvement compared to England’s struggles in the years preceding his appointment. His era was one of promise, if not glory, and drew comparisons to the limited success of other England managers since Sir Alf Ramsey.
Beyond tactics and tournament runs, Southgate was praised for changing the mood around the national side. He fostered unity among the players, restored pride in the shirt, and guided England through politically sensitive moments with composure and empathy.
The ambassador England needed
Southgate became more than a manager during his time with the national side. He engaged with broader social challenges and took public stances on difficult topics, including racism and LGBTQI+ rights. His calm leadership in Sofia during the 2019 incident with Bulgaria stood out, as did his reaction to controversy during the Qatar World Cup over the ‘OneLove’ armband.
He was often described as measured, thoughtful, and decent, traits that sometimes drew criticism as being “too nice.” Yet, Southgate did not shy away from difficult decisions – phasing out key players like Wayne Rooney, Raheem Sterling, and Jack Grealish when he deemed it necessary.
Fan support fluctuated, reaching its height between the 2018 World Cup and Euro 2020, before dipping during a poor run in 2022. At times, criticism turned personal, including a night at Molineux that left a lasting impact on him.
Despite a mixed Euro 2024 campaign and final defeat to Spain, Southgate’s legacy is defined by progress and belief. He reignited passion among players and supporters, leading England into the closing stages of major competitions once more.
As the Prince of Wales – also FA president – knighted him, it marked the end of an era where Southgate served with dignity, resilience, and class.
