Prince William led the tributes to Gareth Southgate on Tuesday, following the footballer’s retirement as England’s national manager.
In a personal message posted on William and Catherine’s social media accounts, William wrote: “Gareth, I want to thank you – not as the President of the @FA, but as an @England fan.
“Thank you for creating a team that stands shoulder to shoulder with the world’s finest in 2024. Thank you for showing humility, compassion, and true leadership under the most intense pressure and scrutiny.
“And thank you for being an all-round class act. You should be incredibly proud of what you’ve achieved. W.”
Gareth Southgate announced his retirement following England’s loss, writing: “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.”
He thanked everyone for support, gave special mentions to the players he’s managed and the teams he worked with, before signing off, “Thank you, England–for everything.”
William serves as President of England’s Football Association and closely followed England’s progression through the Euro Cup tournament. He attended matches against Denmark and Switzerland before attending the finals against Spain on Sunday, joined by his eldest son, Prince George.
