Jude Bellingham has reacted to the announcement that Gareth Southgate is no longer the England manager.
After losing Sunday’s Euro 2024 final to Spain at the Olympiastadion in Berlin, there were immediate doubts over whether Southgate will continue as England boss.
On Tuesday morning, it was confirmed that after 102 matches, Southgate has left the role.
The 53-year-old wrote in a statement: “As a proud Englishman, it has been the honour of my life to play for England and to manage England. It has meant everything to me, and I have given it my all.
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“But it’s time for change, and for a new chapter. Sunday’s final in Berlin against Spain was my final game as England manager.”
He added: “We have the best fans in the world, and their support has meant the world to me. I’m an England fan and I always will be.
“I look forward to watching and celebrating as the players go on to create more special memories and to connect and inspire the nation as we know they can. Thank you, England – for everything.”
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On the back of the news, midfielder Bellingham was one of the first players to react to the announcement.
The Real Madrid star simply reposted England’s announcement post on his Instagram story.
Bellingham then wrote on his Instagram account: "I’d like to thank Gareth and his staff for the great memories during his tenure. From the point of view of a fan who has become a member of the squad, it’s been a rollercoaster of amazing emotions that has instilled hope and joy back into our country.
"It was a privilege being lead by someone who is so dedicated and passionate, not only is Gareth easily one of the best coaches in the history of the national team but also an unbelievable human being. Thank you for everything and all the best in the next chapter, Gaffer."
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After Sunday’s final, it was reported that Bellingham ‘lost it’ with Southgate during a heated moment in the match.
According to ESPN’s Mark Ogden, who said: “I don’t know if it came across on camera but just before Harry Kane was taken off Jude Bellingham lost it with Gareth Southgate on the side of the pitch, as if to say, ‘Change something, do something’. Kane was the taken off.”
Speaking about Southgate, Bellingham said: “I've got nothing but respect for Gareth giving me my debut in the squad, made me feel very at home.
“Whatever happens with Gareth, I'll always respect him. If he stays, then I'll be even more determined to win something for him because he deserves it.”
Topics: Jude Bellingham, Real Madrid, England, Gareth Southgate, Football
Marcus Chan