Prince William hailed Sven-Goran Eriksson as a “true gentleman” as tributes poured in following the former England coach’s death on Monday.

Eriksson passed away surrounded by his family after revealing in January he had “at best” a year to live after being diagnosed with terminal cancer.

The 76-year-old Swede was the first foreign coach of England, taking the Three Lions to the quarterfinals in 2002 and 2006 World Cups and at Euro 2004.

Eriksson managed several of the world’s top clubs and countries during 42 years in the dugout.

As president of the English Football Association, Prince William met Eriksson on many occasions.

“Sad to hear about the passing of Sven-Goran Eriksson. I met him several times as England manager and was always struck by his charisma and passion for the game,” he wrote on X. “My thoughts are with his family and friends. A true gentleman of the game.”

Although Eriksson was unable to end England’s wait for a first major trophy since the 1966 World Cup, his teams produced several memorable performances, including a 5-1 rout of Germany in a World Cup qualifier in 2001.

“This is a very sad day. He gave all England fans such special memories. No one can ever forget the 5-1 victory in Munich against Germany under Sven’s guidance,” FA CEO Mark Bullingham said.

Bullingham added: “Sven will be rightly recognized and forever remembered for his significant work with the England team, and for his wider contribution to the game. 
We will pay tribute to him when we play Finland at Wembley next month.”

England’s ‘golden generation’ may have underachieved under Eriksson, but he was fondly regarded by his players.

Former Liverpool striker Michael Owen said: “Rest In Peace Sven-Goran Eriksson. One of the very best and a man who will be sadly missed by everyone in the world of football.”

Eriksson’s England reign featured tabloid newspaper scandals surrounding his relationships with television personality Ulrika Jonsson and FA secretary Faria Alam.

FA executive Adrian Bevington was tasked with helping Eriksson navigate those issues.

“Sven was a wonderful person. I owe him a lot and he will be greatly missed by so many. Sven, you lived a great life and were such a positive person to be around. Despite a crisis or two, we always smiled. RIP,” Bevington said.

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