Sir Gareth Southgate: From England Manager to Knighthood and Television Stardom

Introduction: A New Chapter for England’s Modern Hero

Sir Gareth Southgate, the former England manager who captured the nation’s hearts and led the Three Lions to unprecedented success in recent tournaments, continues to make headlines in 2025. Former England men’s senior manager Gareth Southgate has been awarded a Knighthood in the King’s 2025 New Year Honours List for his services to association football. This recognition, combined with a BBC television adaptation of his managerial journey, highlights the enduring impact of a man who transformed English football both on and off the pitch.

A Knighthood for Services to Football

Southgate, who spent eight years in charge of the Three Lions, is the only manager bar 1966 World Cup winner Sir Alf Ramsey to lead the England men’s team into a major tournament final. His tenure saw remarkable achievements, including the finals of EURO 2020 and EURO 2024, though both ended in heartbreak. He stood down as manager following that match, after 102 games in charge with 61 wins, 24 draws and 17 defeats. The knighthood recognises not only his tactical accomplishments but also how he brought fans closer than ever to the team, stood up for what he believed in and inspired players to share his pride in representing England.

Dear England: Southgate’s Story Comes to Television

In a testament to his cultural significance, actor Joseph Fiennes was nominated for an Olivier Award for his role as the former England football manager in the West End production, which is being made into a four-part series for BBC One and iPlayer that will air in 2026, with filming under way. The series will tell the story of Southgate’s time as England manager, which saw the team reach two European Championship finals and a World Cup semi-final but ultimately fail to win a major trophy. The production captures both the triumphs and tribulations of modern international football management.

Life After England: Stepping Back from the Spotlight

Since leaving his role, Southgate has maintained a respectful distance from football. The 54-year-old confirmed he hasn’t attended a single match this season and caught only some of England’s recent qualifiers while travelling abroad. When asked about the upcoming World Cup, he singled out Japan, Colombia, and home nations rivals Scotland as his ‘tricky’ selections, and revealed he has no plans to travel to the United States, Canada, and Mexico for the tournament.

Conclusion: A Legacy Beyond Trophies

While silverware ultimately eluded him, Sir Gareth Southgate’s impact on English football extends far beyond tournament victories. He is widely credited with breathing new life into the national team by integrating a new generation of young talent, handing debuts to 42 players – nearly double that of any other England manager. His knighthood and the forthcoming television series ensure that his story—one of dignity, leadership, and near-misses—will inspire future generations. For England fans, Southgate restored belief and pride, making him one of the most significant figures in the nation’s footballing history.