In an emotional message shared on Prime Video on Wednesday, former England manager Sven-Goran Eriksson addressed the world as he faces his final days. The 76-year-old Swedish football legend has been battling terminal pancreatic cancer, a diagnosis he revealed in January, stating he had “at best a year to live.”
“Life is also about death; you have to learn to accept it. Hopefully, in the end, people will say, ‘Yes, he was a good man,’ but not everyone will say that. I had a good life,” Eriksson expressed. “Don’t have regrets. Smile. Thank you to all the coaches, players, and fans. It’s been fantastic. Take care of yourselves and your lives. And live it! Goodbye.”
Eriksson’s illustrious coaching career began in 1977, leading him to manage both club and national teams across Europe and Asia. Notably, he guided Italian club Lazio to a Serie A title in the 1999-2000 season and was honored as Serie A Coach of the Year.
From 2001 to 2006, Eriksson managed the England national team, steering the Three Lions to the quarterfinals in the 2002 and 2006 FIFA World Cups, as well as UEFA Euro 2004.
Eriksson’s influence extended to Asia, where he coached in the Chinese Super League (CSL). Between 2013 and 2017, he led teams such as Guangzhou City (then known as Guangzhou R&F), Shanghai Port (formerly Shanghai SIPG), and Shenzhen, contributing to the growth and development of football in the region.
His heartfelt farewell resonates with fans and players worldwide, reminding all of the profound impact he has had on the sport. Eriksson’s legacy continues to inspire both seasoned professionals and aspiring talents in the global football community.
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'I Had a Good Life' – Sven-Goran Eriksson bids emotional farewell
cgtn.com
