Gareth Southgate's knighthood ceremony was held solemnly at Windsor Castle. The knighthood is not only a symbolic royal ceremony but also a profound gratitude for Southgate's great contributions to English football.
Under the leadership of this 54-year-old former player, the England team reached the semi-finals of the 2018 World Cup and the finals of Euro 2020 and 2024, marking a rare period of success in the history of football in the foggy island nation.
Gareth Southgate and the Royal Knighthood
At the ceremony, Prince William – the patron of the Football Association – used the ceremonial sword to lightly touch Coach Southgate’s shoulder, officially knighting him. In a quiet moment after the ceremony, the two shared a few private words, showing the respect between two national symbols.
Southgate twice missed the Euro championship as coach
The investiture also has personal significance for Prince William, whose three children – Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis – are all avid England fans. George, 11, accompanied his father to the Euro 2024 final, while Charlotte and Louis regularly wear their own team shirts when cheering on the team.
Kensington Palace later posted a congratulatory message to Gareth Southgate on social media: "Congratulations Sir Gareth Southgate - a title that is fully deserved. Thank you for everything you have done for English football."
Prince William at Gareth Southgate's knighthood
Speaking to BBC Sport, Southgate – who steps down as England manager after Euro 2024 – said he was honoured and humbled by the knighthood, but said it was the right time to step back: "I'm a proud Englishman… but it's important to give the team their space."
The event in Windsor marked a solemn end to an emotional chapter in English football. Gareth Southgate will be remembered not only as a manager, but also as the man who transformed the team culture, promoting unity and national pride.
Southgate is one of seven football managers to be awarded the Royal Order of the British Empire, with the title Sir attached to his given name in the media and official communications. The six managers who have been awarded the Order of the British Empire are: Sir Alf Ramsey (England coach, World Cup winner in 1966), Sir Matt Busby, Sir Alex Ferguson (both of Man United), Sir Bobby Robson (England, Barcelona, Newcastle), Sir Kenny Dalglish (Liverpool), Sir Walter Winterbottom (England's first coach from 1946-1962).
Source: https://nld.com.vn/hoang-gia-anh-phong-tuoc-hieu-hiep-si-cho-hlv-gareth-southgate-196250630124258273.htm
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