Gareth Southgate has decided to step down as England manager following the team's defeat to Spain in the Euro 2024 final in Berlin.

The former Three Lions boss announced his resignation in a statement from the Football Association today (July 16).

Born in Watford in 1970 and raised in Crawley, Southgate's football journey began when he caught the attention of Crystal Palace after being released by Southampton and overlooked by several other clubs.

He joined Crystal Palace's youth team in 1988, where Alan Smith, the academy head, quickly recognized his talent.

Southgate played over 100 matches for the reserve team, and was eventually appointed captain at just 23, despite competition from players like Eric Young and John Humphrey.

According to the Crystal Palace website, the 1994/95 season was a long one, as the team played in the final 42-game Premier League season and reached the semi-finals of both the FA Cup and League Cup, totalling 57 games.

Southgate played every minute of all those matches but was disappointed not to make it to Wembley and faced another relegation.

By this time, other clubs were interested in Southgate, and the departure of manager Alan Smith opened the door for new opportunities.

When Aston Villa offered £2.5 million in the summer, the bid was accepted, and Southgate's time at Palace ended with 191 appearances and 22 goals.

He later transitioned into management, first coaching the England U21 team before taking charge of the senior team in 2016.

Under his leadership, England reached the semi finals of the 2018 FIFA World Cup, the final of Euro 2020, and the final of Euro 2024.

His tactical approach and ability to unite the squad earned him widespread praise, and his focus on youth development and team spirit solidified his reputation as a respected figure in football.

In a statement released on the official England website, Southgate 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.

“I joined the FA in 2011, determined to improve English football.

“In that time, including eight years as England men’s manager, I have been supported by some brilliant people who have my heartfelt thanks.

“I could not have had anyone better alongside me than Steve Holland.

“He is one of the most talented coaches of his generation and has been immense.

“I have had the privilege of leading a large group of players in 102 games. Every one of them has been proud to wear the three lions on their shirts, and they have been a credit to their country in so many ways.

“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, and I hope we get behind the players and the team at St. George’s Park and the FA who strive every day to improve English football and understand the power football has to drive positive change.

“My special thanks go to the backroom staff who have provided the players and me with unstinting support over the last eight years.

“Their hard work and commitment inspired me every day, and I am so grateful to them – the brilliant ‘team behind the team’.

“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.”