Former England manager honoured at Windsor Castle for leading England to unprecedented consistency across four major tournaments
Windsor, June 25, 2025 — Former England men’s senior football manager Gareth Southgate has officially been knighted for his outstanding contribution to English football. The 53-year-old received the honour at Windsor Castle, marking the culmination of a managerial journey that reshaped the fortunes and image of the national team.
This recognition comes after Southgate led England through four major international tournaments, including two UEFA European Championship finals and the 2018 FIFA World Cup semifinal, re-establishing the team as global contenders.
“An Amazing Privilege”: Southgate Reflects on Emotional Moment
Speaking to Sky Sports after the ceremony, Southgate said:
“It’s an amazing privilege. I am more emotional than I thought I would be. It was an amazing experience for my whole family.”
He also shared that Prince William, who presented the honour, remains a passionate supporter of the England team:
“We’ve shared some amazing moments — and some unfortunate ones — but he’s always been supportive.”
Southgate previously received an OBE (Officer of the Order of the British Empire) in 2019, following England's strong showing in the 2018 World Cup.
From Crisis to Contenders: A Legacy of Resilience and Reform
Gareth Southgate took over as England manager in 2016, following the team’s shocking exit from Euro 2016 at the hands of Iceland. His appointment marked a turning point for the national side, which had been reeling from years of underachievement and managerial instability.
Under his guidance, England:
- Reached the 2018 World Cup semifinal — their best finish in decades
- Played in two European Championship finals, including Euro 2020
- Developed a solid defensive structure, with global recognition for tactical discipline
- Fostered a new generation of players including Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham, and Bukayo Saka
- Repaired the fractured relationship between fans and the national team
Although his 102-match tenure ended without a major trophy, many analysts and supporters consider him one of the most successful and influential England managers of the modern era.
“It wasn’t quite where we wanted to get to in the end, but it was a period of consistency. The relationships we built with fans, players, and staff were very special,” Southgate said.
A Player and a Leader
Before becoming a manager, Southgate had a distinguished career as a player:
- 57 caps and 2 goals for England between 1995 and 2004
- Represented the country at Euro 1996, World Cup 1998, and Euro 2000
- Famously missed a penalty in the Euro 1996 semifinal shootout — an incident he would later reflect on with grace and maturity
At club level, Southgate’s career spanned:
- Crystal Palace (1988–1995)
- Aston Villa (1995–2001)
- Middlesbrough (2001–2006)
- Total: 503 appearances, 26 goals
He also transitioned into management with Middlesbrough before taking charge of England’s U-21 team from 2013 to 2016, a position that laid the foundation for his senior team appointment.
Southgate’s knighthood is more than a personal honour — it symbolizes a decade-long transformation in England's footballing culture. His focus on unity, discipline, youth development, and emotional intelligence helped redefine leadership in sports.
He championed progressive causes, encouraged mental health awareness in football, and cultivated an inclusive, media-savvy squad that connected with fans.
While Southgate stepped down from his role after UEFA Euro 2024, speculation remains about his future in football — with potential roles in administration, club management, or punditry.
Whatever he chooses, Sir Gareth Southgate leaves behind a legacy not defined by silverware, but by leadership, dignity, and long-term impact.