Prince William, the Prince of Wales, has issued a heartfelt statement following the death of Sven-Goran Eriksson, the former England football manager, who passed away at the age of 76 after battling pancreatic cancer. Eriksson, who made history as the first foreign manager of the England national team, led the squad from 2001 to 2006 and was well-regarded for his charisma and dedication to the sport.

In his tribute shared on social media, Prince William expressed his sorrow over the loss, stating, “Sad to hear about the passing of Sven-Göran Eriksson. I met him several times as England manager and was always struck by his charisma and passion for the game. My thoughts are with his family and friends. A true gentleman of the game.” The message, signed simply “W,” reflects William’s respect and admiration for Eriksson, whom he met on several occasions during his tenure as President of the Football Association (FA).

Eriksson’s impact on English football was significant. Appointed in 2001, he led England through two World Cup campaigns in 2002 and 2006, bringing a distinctive style and strategic acumen to the team. Although his tenure was marked by mixed results on the field, Eriksson was praised for his calm demeanor and tactical knowledge. His passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from across the football community, with many reflecting on his contributions to the sport and his gentlemanly approach to management.

Eriksson’s death has also come during a period of transition for Prince William, who recently stepped back from his role as President of the FA, a position he held for nearly two decades. His decision to step down was motivated by his increasing responsibilities in Wales and his role as Duke of Cornwall. In his new, more focused role, William has shifted to being a Patron of the FA, allowing him to maintain his support for the sport while dedicating more time to his expanding royal duties.

As tributes continue to flow in for Eriksson, his legacy as a pioneer in English football and a respected figure in the game remains secure. Prince William’s heartfelt message captures the essence of Eriksson’s influence, both on and off the field, and highlights the deep connection he had with those who knew him. The football world mourns the loss of a true sportsman who left an indelible mark on the beautiful game.