Sven-Goran Eriksson, Former England Manager, Dies at 76
Sven-Goran Eriksson, the Swedish football manager who made history as the first foreigner to lead the England national team, passed away on Monday at the age of 76. Eriksson’s illustrious career spanned decades, leaving an indelible mark on the sport.
Born in Torsby, Sweden, Eriksson began his coaching career in 1977 with Degerfors IF. His early success with the club earned him a move to IFK Gothenburg in 1982, where he guided the team to three consecutive Swedish league titles and the 1982 UEFA Cup.
Eriksson’s reputation as a top-class manager grew with his move to Benfica in 1989. He led the Portuguese giants to two Primeira Liga titles and the 1991 European Cup, becoming the first Swedish coach to win a major European trophy.
In 1997, Eriksson took over at Lazio, where he enjoyed his most successful period as a manager. He won the Serie A title in 1999-2000, the Coppa Italia in 1998 and 2000, and the UEFA Super Cup in 1999.
Eriksson’s achievements at club level earned him the England job in 2001. He inherited a golden generation of players, including David Beckham, Paul Scholes, Frank Lampard, Wayne Rooney, and Steven Gerrard. Under Eriksson’s guidance, England reached the quarter-finals of the 2002 and 2006 World Cups, as well as the 2004 European Championship.
Despite his success with England, Eriksson’s tenure was not without controversy. His decision to leave the team after the 2006 World Cup to join Manchester City was met with criticism. He later managed Manchester City, Leicester City, and Shanghai SIPG, but never replicated the success he had achieved earlier in his career.
Eriksson’s legacy as a manager is undeniable. He was a charismatic and innovative coach who helped revolutionize the game. His ability to get the best out of his players and his tactical acumen made him one of the most respected managers of his generation.