BIG STORY
BREAKING! Eriksson, Former England Football Manager Dies at 76
By Our Reporter
WORLD/SPORTS
A statement from his family read: “Sven-Goran Eriksson has passed away. After a long illness, Sven died during the morning of Monday, 26th August, 2024 at home surrounded by family.
The closest mourners are daughter Lina; son Johan and his wife Amana and their daughters Sky; father Sven; girlfriend Yanisette with son Alcides; brother Lars-Erik with wife Jumnong.
“The family asks for respect for their wish to mourn in private and not be contacted. Condolences and greetings can be left on the website www.svengoraneriksson.com.”
Eriksson revealed in January that he had been diagnosed with cancer and had “best case a year” to live.
A hugely successful coach, Eriksson was the first foreign manager to lead England and won major trophies with clubs such as Gothenburg, Benfica and Lazio.
A documentary of his life was released on Amazon last week in which Eriksson delivered a poignant farewell message.
“I hope you will remember me as a positive guy trying to do everything he could do,” he said.
“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.”
Wembley Tribute Planned
Prince William, the patron of the Football Association, led tributes to Eriksson following the news of his passing.
The Prince of Wales posted on social media: “Sad to hear about the passing of Sven-Goran Eriksson. I met him several times as England manager and was always struck by his charisma and passion for the game. My thoughts are with his family and friends. A true gentleman of the game. W.”
The Football Association confirmed that they will honour Eriksson before their next match at Wembley, against Finland on September 10, with chief executive Mark Bullingham adding: “This is a very sad day. He gave all England fans such special memories. No one can ever forget the 5-1 victory in Munich against Germany under Sven’s guidance.
“Sven will be rightly recognised and forever remembered for his significant work with the England team, and for his wider contribution to the game. On behalf of my colleagues at The FA, past and present, our thoughts are with his friends and family today. He will be much missed, and we will pay tribute to him when we play Finland at Wembley next month.”