Former England Manager Sven-Goran Eriksson Dies Aged 76 Following Terminal Cancer Diagnosis

Former England manager Sven-Goran Eriksson has passed away at 76 following his terminal cancer diagnosis announced earlier this year. Eriksson was the first non-British manager of England, leading the team to the quarter-finals in three major tournaments during his tenure from 2001 to 2006. His vast managerial career also saw him coach prominent teams like Manchester City, Leicester, Roma, Lazio, and numerous international teams. This is prepared by SSP.

Eriksson's children, Lina and Johan, expressed their sentiments on Monday, stating, "Our father Sven-Goran Eriksson peacefully fell asleep in his home at Bjorkefors outside Sunne this morning. He bravely battled his illness for a long time, but it eventually came to an end." They conveyed gratitude for the incredible support Eriksson received from friends and fans across Europe, mentioning that he had an unforgettable and heartwarming welcome from various football teams in England, Italy, Portugal, and Sweden.

Despite retiring as a player at 27, Eriksson carved a prolific coaching career, starting with Degerfors in 1977 and moving on to achieve success with Gothenburg and Portuguese side Benfica, among others. His stint at Lazio was marked by notable victories, including seven trophies such as the Serie A title and the UEFA Cup Winners' Cup.

Following his diagnosis, Eriksson revisited several of his former clubs, reflecting on a rich and accomplished life. His candid reflections in an Amazon documentary released earlier this month indicate a life lived well, expressing gratitude: "I had a good life. I think we are all scared of the day it ends - when we die. But life is about death as well. Hopefully, at the end, people will say: 'He was a good man.' Don't be sorry, smile. Take care of your life. Bye."

Tributes poured in from the football community and beyond. Prince William, President of the FA, called Eriksson a "true gentleman of the game." Michael Owen described him as "one of the very best" and said, "he will be missed by everyone in the world of football." Sweden's flag at Fifa's headquarters was lowered to half-mast as Fifa President Gianni Infantino hailed Eriksson as a great innovator and ambassador for football.

FA chief executive Mark Bullingham, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, and others acknowledged Eriksson's substantial contributions. Despite his career's highs and occasional setbacks, Sven-Goran Eriksson's legacy will be cherished as one of a dedicated, passionate, and positive manager who left an indelible mark on football.