The British Royal Family knights coach Gareth Southgate

(NLDO) – Prince William, representing the British Royal Family, has just awarded a knighthood to coach Gareth Southgate, who has led the England team to many successes.

Gareth Southgate's knighthood ceremony was held solemnly at Windsor Castle. The knighthood is not only a symbol of 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 the quiet moments 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 team shirts with their names on them when cheering on the team.

Kensington Palace later posted a congratulatory message to Gareth Southgate on social media: "Congratulations Sir Gareth Southgate - a thoroughly deserved title. Thank you for all you have done for English football."

Prince William at Gareth Southgate's knighthood

Speaking to BBC Sport, Southgate – who is stepping down as England manager after Euro 2024 – said he was honoured and proud to be knighted, but also said it was the right time to step back: "I'm a proud Englishman… but it's important I 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 Order of the British Empire, which is the title Sir, which is attached to the name in the media and in official communications. The six managers who have been awarded the Order of the British Empire are: Sir Alf Ramsey (coach of the England team that won the 1966 World Cup), Sir Matt Busby, Sir Alex Ferguson (both of Man United), Sir Bobby Robson (England, Barcelona, ​​Newcastle), Sir Kenny Dalglish (Liverpool), Sir Walter Winterbottom (first coach of the England team from 1946-1962).

Source: https://nld.com.vn/hoang-gia-anh-phong-tuoc-hieu-hiep-si-cho-hlv-gareth-southgate-196250630124258273.htm