Former England manager Gareth Southgate is set to be knighted in the 2025 New Year Honours, joining the elite ranks of Sir Walter Winterbottom, Sir Alf Ramsey, and Sir Bobby Robson as the fourth Three Lions boss to receive the prestigious accolade.
Southgate, 54, will be recognised for his transformative impact on English football during his eight-year tenure as the national team manager—a period widely regarded as one of the most successful in modern times.
According to The Sun, he will be honoured with the knighthood for services to sport in a ceremony expected to take place in early 2025.
GB News reported late Saturday that he was appointed in late 2016 under turbulent circumstances following Sam Allardyce’s resignation.
Southgate inherited a demoralised squad but quickly turned the tide. His leadership rejuvenated English football, restoring pride among fans who had endured years of underachievement.
Under his guidance, England reached the semi-finals of the 2018 World Cup in Russia — their best performance in the tournament since 1990. The team finished third in the inaugural UEFA Nations League in 2019 and made consecutive appearances in the European Championship finals.
In the Covid-delayed Euro 2020 final, England came agonisingly close to glory, only to lose to Italy in a dramatic penalty shootout.
Southgate’s final chapter saw a heartbreaking 2-1 loss to Spain in the Euro 2024 final, marking the end of his tenure but cementing his legacy as one of England’s most successful managers.
Recognition for a Football Legend
Southgate’s contributions to football extend beyond results.
His dignified demeanour and progressive leadership have earned him widespread respect both on and off the pitch.
He was awarded an OBE in 2019, and his knighthood will cap a remarkable career.
A source close to the Honours Committee told The Sun: “Gareth is a football legend who achieved great things this year. He inspired a nation, reignited belief in the Three Lions, and brought the team to the brink of success time and time again.”
Southgate’s knighthood will place him alongside England’s most iconic footballing figures.
Sir Walter Winterbottom, the national team’s first manager, Sir Alf Ramsey, the mastermind of England’s 1966 World Cup triumph, and Sir Bobby Robson, who led the team to the 1990 World Cup semi-finals, are his only predecessors to receive the honour.
While some critics have lamented Southgate’s pragmatic style of play and missed opportunities, his broader influence is undeniable. His tenure reshaped England’s international image, fostering a culture of discipline, unity, and hope.
Southgate stepped down this summer after narrowly missing out on a major trophy yet again, but his impact on the national team’s fortunes will be remembered as transformative.
With letters confirming the Honours Committee’s selections already sent, Southgate is poised to take his place among the greats of English football — a fitting tribute to a career dedicated to the beautiful game.
