Jude Bellingham has sent a message to Gareth Southgate in an emotional post-Euro 2024 social media post.
The midfielder was one of England’s key players throughout their tournament in Germany, scoring twice in the Three Lions’ run to the final, where they lost against Spain.
Though he did at times receive criticism for his performances, he was an ever-present in Southgate’s side following an impressive debut season with Real Madrid in Spain.
It was a season of winning for Bellingham, who lifted LaLiga and the Champions League but fell short with his country in the final match of what was a long season.
Now, the 21-year-old has taken to social media to release a statement, addressing Southgate’s departure as England manager at the end of the post following a reflection on the tournament as a whole.
Jude Bellingham (right) has sent a message to Gareth Southate (left) following his resignation as England manager
The midfielder was a key part of the team that reached the Euro 2024 final under the now-former Three Lions manager
Though he struggled in the tournament, he did net twice and has now spoken on Southgate’s exit
Bellingham described Southgate as ‘dedicated and passionate’ in his message on Instagram
‘Finally, I’d like to thank Gareth and his staff for the great memories during his tenure,’ the end of the post read. 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.’
‘It’s time for change, and for a new chapter,’ Southgate wrote in his own emotional statement shared by England, as he thanked the likes of Steve Holland, his players and England fans for their support.
The resignation came on the back of Southgate saying before the tournament that it was unlikely he would be in charge if England failed to win the competition and the revelation that the FA would try and convince him to stay on.
Tributes then poured in from the football world from pundits and players alike, with the likes of Jordan Pickford and Harry Maguire leading the England players’ thanks.
Bellingham, meanwhile, took the opportunity to reflect on the tournament as a whole, and apologised to fans for England coming up short in their bid to win a first major trophy since 1966.
It has, however, been reported that Bellingham ‘lost it’ with Southgate at one crucial moment in Sunday’s Euro 2024 final defeat.
Southgate confirmed his resignation on Tuesday, stepping down after eight years in charge
Bellingham also reflected on the tournament as a whole in what was an emotional message
‘Still trying to process the final but the overriding feelings are sadness and disappointment,’ the post began. ‘The fact is that we came up against a great opponent and fell short, it hurts that we were so close to history and yet couldn’t deliver for the England fans that backed us throughout the highs and lows of the tournament whether that was from back home or out in Germany in the stadiums.
‘For that we can only hold our hands up and apologise. Being in such a tight bubble for so long means that sometimes it’s easier to get caught up in the negatives of playing at a major tournament but some of the atmospheres and celebrations I witnessed were a constant reminder of the love you guys have for this team, those images will live with me forever and I couldn’t be more thankful for that.
‘I’m sure the aftermath will be intense but please understand that this group of players and every single member of staff gave absolutely everything to try and make our dreams come true.
‘Whilst it’s frustrating to keep writing in this manner after tournaments I genuinely believe that this team, using these heartbreaking experiences, has the potential to finally get over the line and bring silverware back to England at some point. Until then, stick with us and continue to support the lads like you have done for so long.
