David Beckham has expressed deep gratitude and respect for Sven-Goran Eriksson, referring to him as a “true gentleman” and stating he will be “eternally grateful” to the former England manager, who has passed away at the age of 76.
Eriksson, who made history as the first non-British England manager, appointed Beckham as team captain shortly after taking the helm in 2001. The Swedish coach led Beckham in 57 out of the 59 matches he captained for England.
“Sven, thank you for always being the person you were—passionate, caring, calm, and a true gentleman,” said Beckham, the former Manchester United and Real Madrid star. “I will always be grateful for the honor of being your captain.”
Beckham shared his heartfelt tribute on social media, accompanied by a video of a recent visit he made to Eriksson. Earlier this year, Eriksson had revealed his cancer diagnosis, with doctors giving him “at best” a year to live.
“We laughed, we cried, and we knew it was our final goodbye,” Beckham reflected. “I will forever cherish those last memories with you and your family. Thank you, Sven, and in your last words to me, ‘It will be OK.'”
During his five-year tenure as England’s manager, Eriksson guided the team to the quarter-finals in three major tournaments. He also managed 12 clubs, including Manchester City, Leicester, Roma, and Lazio, winning 18 trophies throughout his career.
Wayne Rooney, who made his England debut under Eriksson at just 17, described him as a “special man” and offered his condolences. “Rest in peace, Sven. Thanks for the memories and all your help and advice. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends.”
Current England captain Harry Kane also paid tribute, acknowledging Eriksson’s impact on the national team despite never having played under him. “My thoughts are with his family and friends during this difficult time,” Kane said.
Players from England’s so-called “Golden Generation,” who played under Eriksson, have also expressed their admiration. Peter Crouch, who was given his England debut by Eriksson, said, “Sven gave me my England debut when many doubted me. I will always be thankful to him. He will be missed.”
John Terry, another player who debuted under Eriksson, called him a “great manager and superb man-manager.” Frank Lampard added that Eriksson was “always there for you on and off the pitch” and expressed his gratitude for the trust and support he received during his England career.
Micah Richards, who played under Eriksson at Manchester City, praised his man-management skills, saying, “His leadership allowed me to play my best football. Thank you for everything, Sven.”
Goalkeeper Joe Hart, who became Manchester City’s first-choice keeper under Eriksson, described him as “so lovely to be around” and full of “power and influence.” Hart added, “He cared deeply and had a genuine interest in us as human beings. He was a true superstar who oozed class without effort.”
Kasper Schmeichel, who was given his Premier League debut by Eriksson, said, “We have lost an incredible man to whom I owe a great deal. Sven was the first manager to believe in me and call me world-class. He made me feel 10 feet tall.”
Simone Inzaghi, who won the Serie A title under Eriksson with Lazio, expressed his sorrow at Eriksson’s passing. “He was fundamental in my growth as a footballer and a man,” Inzaghi said. “He was an example for everyone and taught us to live even as he was dying.”