Sven-Goran Eriksson, the legendary football manager who led England and several top European clubs, has passed away at the age of 76.
Eriksson, who had been battling cancer, died peacefully at home surrounded by his family. His death marks the end of a remarkable career that spanned decades and left a lasting impact on the world of football.
Eriksson’s family released a statement confirming his passing: “Sven-Goran Eriksson has passed away. After a long illness, Sven died during the morning at home surrounded by family. The closest mourners are daughter Lina; son Johan with wife Amana and granddaughters Sky; father Sven; girlfriend Yanisette with son Alcides; brother Lars-Erik with wife Jumnong.”
The family has requested privacy during this time of mourning, asking that they not be contacted. Condolences and messages of support can be shared on a dedicated website, www.svengoraneriksson.com.
Eriksson’s legacy as a coach is unparalleled. He was the first foreign manager to lead the England national team, guiding them to two World Cup quarterfinals and one European Championship quarterfinal.
His coaching career also included major successes with clubs like IFK Göteborg, Benfica, and Lazio, where he won numerous domestic and international titles.
Earlier this year, Eriksson revealed that he had been diagnosed with cancer and had been given “best case a year” to live. Despite his illness, he remained optimistic and gracious, expressing his gratitude for the life he lived in a recently released Amazon documentary. In a poignant farewell, Eriksson said, “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.”
Eriksson’s passing is a significant loss to the football community, but his influence on the sport will be remembered for generations to come.