His Majesty King Charles III has penned a letter to the England squad following their Euro 2024 final defeat to Spain.
The Three Lions faced more heartbreak in the tournament, three years after they made the same stage against Italy.
Nico Williams opened the scoring for La Roja a minute into the second half, linking up with 17-year-old Lamine Yamal to carve England open.
But as has been the theme across Euro 2024, Gareth Southgate’s men hit back.
Substitute Cole Palmer came on to score the equaliser, passing the ball into the far corner and past Unai Simon.
It looked like the game may be heading to extra time, but Mikel Oyarzabal had the final say as he latched on to a Marc Cucurella cross.
⚽️ His Majesty The King has written to Gareth Southgate and the @England team following their loss against Spain at the @EURO2024 final this evening.
Read the letter below. pic.twitter.com/YTHYRfeR44— The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) July 14, 2024
Unsurprisingly, the players and manager looked devastated at full-time but they still had the support of the nation and The King.
In an open letter, he said: “Although victory may have eluded you this evening, nevertheless my wife and I join all my family in urging you and your support team to hold your heads high.
“All those who have participated in sporting activities at any level will know how utterly despairing such a result can feel when the prize was so near – and will join me in sending heartfelt sympathy, even as we congratulate Spain.
“But please know that your success in reaching the European Championship final is a really great achievement in itself, and one that brings with it the pride of a nation which will continue to roar for the Three Lions today – and in the many triumphs which I have no doubt lie ahead.”
Southgate’s contract is set to expire at the end of the year, although reports suggest he could stay on for the 2026 World Cup.
The head coach has split opinion across the nation, but there is no denying his record in major tournaments has been excellent and he has a great relationship with the players.
