Gareth Southgate’s resignation as England manager marks the end of an eight-year tenure that included four major tournaments. His period in charge has been one of the most scrutinized in modern English football history, with his tactical decisions, squad selections, and tournament performances continuously analyzed. Comparing his record in terms of wins, goals, and tournament progress with those of Sir Alf Ramsey, Sir Bobby Robson, and Sven-Goran Eriksson provides insight into his legacy.
Southgate’s Record: Wins, Goals, and Tournament Progress
Gareth Southgate took over as England manager in 2016, leading the team through the 2018 World Cup, Euro 2020, the 2022 World Cup, and Euro 2024. Under his guidance, England reached the semi-finals of the 2018 World Cup, the final of Euro 2020, and the quarter-finals of Euro 2024, while experiencing a relatively disappointing exit in the 2022 World Cup’s round of 16.
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Win Rate
Southgate’s overall win rate stands at approximately 61%, having managed 81 matches, with 49 wins, 18 draws, and 14 losses. This win rate, while respectable, reflects both the successes and the limitations of his tenure. Southgate’s teams were often lauded for their disciplined defending and structured play, though occasionally criticized for a perceived lack of attacking dynamism.
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Goals
Under Southgate, England scored 147 goals in 81 matches, averaging around 1.81 goals per game. Defensively, his teams conceded 57 goals, averaging about 0.70 goals per game. This solid defensive record was a cornerstone of Southgate’s strategy, though the offensive output sometimes drew criticism for being overly cautious, especially in crucial moments.
Comparing to Sir Alf Ramsey
Sir Alf Ramsey, who managed England from 1963 to 1974, is most famous for leading the team to its only World Cup victory in 1966. Ramsey’s tenure included three World Cups (1966, 1970, and 1974) and one European Championship (1968).
Win Rate:
Ramsey managed 113 matches, with a win rate of approximately 61%, similar to Southgate’s. He secured 69 wins, 27 draws, and 17 losses.
Goals:
Under Ramsey, England scored 224 goals in 113 matches (an average of 1.98 goals per game) and conceded 87 (0.77 goals per game). His teams were known for their tactical discipline and strong defensive setup, much like Southgate’s, but with a more effective attack.
Tournament Success:
Ramsey’s crowning achievement remains the 1966 World Cup victory. He also led England to the semi-finals of Euro 1968 and the quarter-finals of the 1970 World Cup. Despite a disappointing group stage exit in the 1974 World Cup, Ramsey’s legacy is defined by his World Cup triumph.
Comparing to Sir Bobby Robson
Sir Bobby Robson managed England from 1982 to 1990, overseeing two World Cups (1986, 1990) and one European Championship (1988).
Win Rate:
Robson’s win rate was approximately 49%, managing 95 matches with 47 wins, 30 draws, and 18 losses.
Goals:
England scored 155 goals under Robson (1.63 goals per game) and conceded 67 (0.70 goals per game). His teams were known for their spirited play and attacking flair, though occasionally vulnerable defensively.
Tournament Success:
Robson’s notable achievements include reaching the quarter-finals of the 1986 World Cup and the semi-finals of the 1990 World Cup. The latter campaign, highlighted by a heartbreaking penalty shootout loss to West Germany, is fondly remembered by fans.
Comparing to Sven-Goran Eriksson
Sven-Goran Eriksson managed England from 2001 to 2006, participating in two World Cups (2002, 2006) and two European Championships (2004).
Win Rate:
Eriksson’s win rate was around 59%, managing 67 matches with 40 wins, 17 draws, and 10 losses.
Goals:
England scored 114 goals (1.70 goals per game) and conceded 49 (0.73 goals per game) under Eriksson. His tenure was marked by a balanced approach but sometimes criticized for lacking the final touch in crucial matches.
Tournament Success:
Eriksson led England to the quarter-finals in all four tournaments he managed, a level of consistent performance but without reaching the semi-finals or finals.
Also Read:
- SBOTOP: Gareth Southgate’s Exit Sparks Debate on Ideal Attributes for England’s New Manager
- SBOTOP: Spain Fans Continue to Celebrate Their Euro 2024 Triumph Over England in the Final
- SBOTOP: Gareth Southgate Steps Down as England Manager After Euro 2024 Final Defeat
