Sven-Goran Eriksson, a name synonymous with international football has left an indelible mark on the sport. Eriksson was born on February 5, 1948 in Sunne, Sweden, and his journey through the world of football has been nothing short of epic.
On August 26, 2024, the world said goodbye to this cult figure, who succumbed to pancreatic cancer at the age of 76, surrounded by his family at his home.
The rich diversity of a nomadic trainer
A true odyssey across continents and cultures, Eriksson’s coaching career began in his native Sweden in the late 1970s. He was affectionately known as “Svennis”. After retiring early from football due to a knee injury at the age of 27, he became a coach, where he achieved incredible success. He led Swedish club Gothenburg to a league title and a UEFA Cup victory, beginning a career in which he won 17 major trophies in various leagues.
Conquering Europe and beyond
His success in Sweden led to notable stints in Portugal with Benfica and later in Italy, where he coached notable clubs such as Roma, Fiorentina, Sampdoria and Lazio. With Lazio, Eriksson secured a league title, several cup wins and another UEFA Cup, cementing his status as a top coach. His unique ability to win the league and cup double in three different countries – a first for any coach – underlined his tactical sense and adaptability.
The English and Mexican chapters
In 2001, Eriksson broke new ground as the first non-British manager of the England national team, leading what has been called the ‘golden generation’ of English football. Under his leadership, England reached the quarter-finals of the 2002 and 2006 World Cups. His stint with the Mexican national team in 2008 was brief, but part of a wider international career that also saw him coach the Ivory Coast and Philippines national teams.
Net assets at the time of death
At the time of his death, Sven-Göran Eriksson’s net worth was estimated at $35 million. His financial success was offset by a private life of public relationships and discreet encounters, including a turbulent relationship with Nancy Dell’Olio. His biography, “My Story,” published in November 2013, offers an insight into the life of a man who lived as passionately off the field as he did on it.
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Illness and cause of death
Eriksson’s battle with pancreatic cancer was both public and poignant, with the diagnosis made just eight months before his death. The football community worldwide has come together to honour his legacy with tributes, a biographical documentary and even a symbolic one-day coaching stint at Liverpool for a charity match – highlighting the huge respect and affection he enjoyed throughout his career.
The legacy of a football nomad
Sven-Göran Eriksson’s career in football was as varied as it was successful. From the frozen pitches of Sweden to the sun-scorched fields of Mexico and beyond, his strategies and philosophies have left a lasting mark on the game. His legacy is measured not only by the trophies and titles he has won, but also by the multitude of lives and careers he has influenced around the world. His story is one of triumph, adaptation and an undying love of football – one that will inspire generations to come.
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