Sven-Goran Eriksson, the former England football manager, has passed away at the age of 76. He managed England for 67 matches between 2001 and 2006, taking the team to two World Cups and a European Championship. His family announced on Monday that he had died at home after a long illness.
In February 2023, he parted ways with his position as a sporting director at Swedish side Karlstad, shortly after revealing that he had terminal pancreatic cancer. Following this announcement, well-wishes poured in from across the football world. Additionally, Eriksson received an opportunity to realize his long-held ambition of managing his childhood team, Liverpool, at Anfield in a charity match against Ajax.
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The Legend of Sir Eriksson
Eriksson clinched an impressive 18 trophies during an illustrious club management career. This includes securing the Serie A title with Lazio in 1999-2000 and claiming three Portuguese Primeira Liga titles with Benfica. His earlier success involved guiding IFK Goteborg to the UEFA Cup in 1982, a historic achievement as the first continental success for a Swedish team. Notably, Eriksson stands as the first manager to achieve league and cup doubles in three different countries. His most triumphant period was at Lazio, where, in addition to the Italian league title, he also earned two Italian Cups and the European Cup Winners' Cup.
In January 2001, he became the first non-British coach to join the England national team. During his tenure, England celebrated a memorable 5-1 victory over Germany and successfully secured qualification for the 2002 World Cup, thanks to a sensational last-minute free-kick by David Beckham against Greece at Old Trafford.
After nearly 5 years in the public eye, Erikson departed from his post in 2006. Just a year after departing from the England job, Eriksson assumed the helm at Manchester City. Despite being well-liked by fans, his tenure lasted just a season. He also held the position of manager at Leicester City from 2010 to 2011, following a turbulent stint as director of football at Notes County.
Following his successful stint at Europe, Erikson managed club's in China, Mexico, Ivory coast and the Philipines.He appeared deeply moved at Anfield in March when he was given the chance to sit in the dugout as Liverpool's manager for the 4-2 win over Ajax in a charity match.
Eriksson's Last message that moved global football fans
Eriksson - “I hope you will remember me as a positive guy trying to do everything he could do. Don’t be sorry, smile. Thank you for everything, coaches, players, the crowds, it’s been fantastic. Take care of yourself and take care of your life. And live it."
Fans pay tribute:
Manchester City - "We would like to express our sincere condolences to the family and friends of Sven-Goran Eriksson, who has passed away at the age of 76. Rest in peace, Sven."
England Team on X - "We are deeply saddened that Sven-Goran Eriksson, who managed the Three Lions from 2001 to 2006, has passed away aged 76. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this time. Rest in peace, Sven. You will be greatly missed."
UEFA on X - : "On behalf of the European football community, everybody at UEFA is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Sven Goran Eriksson."
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