Swedish football manager Sven-Goran Eriksson, known for coaching England from 2001 to 2006, passed away at the age of 76 after battling pancreatic cancer.

Eriksson died peacefully at home, surrounded by his family. He had announced in early 2023 that he was stepping back from public life due to health issues.

Born in Sunne, Sweden, on February 5, 1948, Eriksson transitioned from a modest playing career to a successful managerial one. After starting with Degerfors IF, he went on to manage IFK Goteborg, Benfica, and several top Italian clubs like Roma and Lazio.

His most notable achievement was becoming the first foreigner to manage England’s national team, guiding them to the World Cup quarter-finals in 2002 and 2006.

Eriksson’s tenure with England included a memorable 5-1 victory over Germany but was also marked by controversies in his personal life. He later managed national teams like Mexico, Ivory Coast, and the Philippines, though he never led Sweden’s national team.

In March, Eriksson fulfilled a lifelong dream by managing Liverpool Legends in a charity match, receiving an emotional standing ovation from fans. The Football Association of England remembered him fondly for his significant contributions to the game.

#MaltaDaily