Which coach received a royal knighthood in 2025 for contributions to national football?

Correct option is C

The correct answer is (c) Gareth Southgate

Explanation:

• Former England manager Gareth Southgate received a Knighthood in the 2025 New Year Honours for his services to football.
• He is credited with transforming the England national team, leading them to consecutive Euro finals (2020 and 2024) and a World Cup semi-final.
• Southgate resigned from his post in late 2024, ending an eight-year tenure that restored pride in the 'Three Lions'.
• The title 'Sir Gareth Southgate' recognizes his leadership, sportsmanship, and positive social influence.
• He is the first England manager since Sir Bobby Robson and Sir Alf Ramsey to receive such an honor primarily for national team success.

• A Knighthood (KBE or Knight Bachelor) is one of the highest honors in the British Honours System.
• Recipients are allowed to use the title 'Sir' before their name.

• A legendary Portuguese coach; as a non-British citizen, he can receive honorary awards but not a substantive Knighthood.

• The current Portugal manager and former Belgium coach; he has not been knighted for his services.

• The Manchester City manager is highly successful, but as a Spanish citizen, he would only be eligible for an honorary CBE or similar.