Gareth Southgate has revealed that he decided to step down as England manager long before the Three Lions’ defeat to Spain in the Euro 2024 final.
The announcement of Southgate’s departure came just two days after England’s loss in the tournament’s decisive match. After an extensive search, the Football Association named former Chelsea and Bayern Munich manager Thomas Tuchel as his successor.
Speaking on BBC’s Desert Island Discs, Southgate shared that he turned to Adele’s song Someone Like You to process his decision to leave the national team during Euro 2024.
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“I kept playing it towards the end of the last Euros because I knew I was going to be leaving,” Southgate explained. “I’d made up my mind that it was time for a change on all sides. Many of the lyrics in the song resonate deeply with my relationship with England and the fans. Even now, when I hear it, it reminds me of how I felt—how they need to move on, how I wish them the best, and the regrets and memories we shared together.”
Reflecting on the song, he added, “There are so many lines in it that connected to my journey with England, from the highs and lows to the emotional farewell.”
Despite speculation linking him to various Premier League clubs, including Manchester United, Southgate indicated he is in no rush to return to management.
“I know the England job is one of the biggest roles, and that’s why I want to take my time,” he said. “I’ve been fortunate to speak with people who have held big jobs, and they’ve shared invaluable advice. Almost all of them have said, ‘Don’t rush.’
“I’ve spent 37 years as a player and coach, and I’m open to the next phase of my life being completely different. After holding such a prestigious position, the question is: what comes next?”