PREVIEW

Gareth Southgate Says He Doesn’t Miss Managing England After Stepping Down. Former England manager Sir Gareth Southgate has admitted that he doesn’t miss managing the team after stepping down last summer. Southgate led England to two European Championship finals but says he doesn’t miss the “weight” of managing the team. ”It is a little bit strange (watching the team) but also I’m not missing it," Southgate told BBC Sport. Southgate acknowledged the importance of giving the team space, saying, "I think it's important that I am on that sofa and out of their way.” After stepping down, Southgate was knighted for his services to English football, becoming the fourth England manager to receive the honor. Reflecting on the pressure, Southgate explained, "Until that weight's gone, you don't necessarily realise just on a day-to-day basis... every hour of my day was thinking about how do I make England better.” Southgate’s tenure saw England reach the Euro 2024 final, but the job took a toll on him, leading to his decision to step down. Replaced by Thomas Tuchel, Southgate emphasized the importance of giving the new manager space to operate without interference. When asked about Tuchel's criticism of his team’s identity, Southgate replied, “I think what's really important is for me to give the team, the manager, the space to operate.” Southgate stated he would now be a fan of the team, adding, “I’ve had an amazing experience leading my country, but it’s time for them to take it forward now.”
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