Former English footballer David Beckham paid homage to his management.
David Beckham has revealed the final words Sven-Göran Eriksson uttered to him as they said ‘goodbye’.
The former England manager passed away this morning (August 26) at the age of 76.
The Swedish man passed away with his family present, according to a statement on his website, after receiving a cancer diagnosis.
He was the first foreign manager of the England men’s team, overseeing 67 matches from 2001 to 2006 and leading the team to three international championship quarterfinals in a row.
Beckham paid tribute to Eriksson on Instagram, posting a recent video of the renowned football player and coach pair.
He wrote: “We laughed, grieved, and realized we were saying goodbye… Sven, thank you for always being who you are: passionate, kind, calm, and a wonderful gentleman…
“I will be eternally thankful to you for making me your captain, but I will cherish these final memories of this day with you and your family…
“Thank you, Sven, and in your last words to me, ‘It will be ok’.”
Wayne Rooney, Beckham’s ex-teammate, also offered homage to their former boss when Eriksson gave the star his international debut in 2003.
The former England captain said on X: “Rest in peace, Sven. A special dude.
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“I appreciate all of your aid and advice, as well as the memories. Thoughts and prayers for all of his family and friends.
Fellow footballer Michael Owen also wrote, “Rest in peace, Sven-Goran Eriksson.” “Everyone in football will sorely miss one of the best, Sven-Goran Eriksson.”
The Prince of Wales paid personal homage to the former manager, writing: “Sad to hear of the loss of Sven-Göran Eriksson. I had numerous encounters with him as England’s manager, and I was consistently impressed by his charisma and passion for the game. My thoughts are with his family and friends. A real gentleman in the game. W.”
The Football Association’s chief executive, Mark Billingham, also paid homage to Eriksson, who notably guided the Three Lions to a 5-1 victory against Germany in a World Cup qualifier in Munich in September 2001.
“Today is a terrible day. He provided all England supporters with unforgettable experiences. “No one will forget the 5-1 victory over Germany in Munich under Sven’s guidance,” Bullingham added.
“We will appropriately acknowledge and remember Sven for his considerable work with the England squad and his overall commitment to the game.
“On behalf of my former and current colleagues at the FA, our thoughts are with his friends and family today. He will be greatly missed, and we will pay homage to him when we face Finland at Wembley next month.”
A new Amazon Prime documentary recently portrayed Eriksson’s life and remarkable career, and he discussed his wishes for his legacy.
“I hope you will remember me as a positive guy trying to do everything he could do,” he told me.
“Don’t be sorry; grin. Thank you for everything, coaches, players, and fans; it’s been amazing. Take good care of yourself and your life.” And live it.”