Farewell to Sven-Goran Eriksson: The Football Gentleman

Sven-Goran Eriksson, the trailblazing coach and first foreign manager of England's national soccer team, was laid to rest in his hometown of Torsby, Sweden. Known for his decades-long career across multiple countries, Eriksson passed away from pancreatic cancer. The funeral saw widespread attendance and international tributes.

Sven-Goran Eriksson, a pioneering coach and the first foreigner to manage England's national soccer team, was laid to rest in his hometown of Torsby, Sweden, on Friday. The solemn ceremony was attended by hundreds, including stars like David Beckham.

Eriksson, known for his calm demeanor and steadfast coaching style, led successful teams in Sweden, Portugal, and Italy before taking charge of England in 2001. He passed away from pancreatic cancer last month after announcing his illness in January. The funeral received extensive media coverage and tributes from notable figures and soccer clubs worldwide.

The event began with a church service and concluded with a procession to a community center, accompanied by a brass band playing Liverpool's anthem, "You'll Never Walk Alone." Eriksson's storied career included leading England to the 2002 and 2006 World Cup quarter-finals and managing star players like Beckham, Frank Lampard, and Wayne Rooney. Despite his failure to secure a major trophy for England, Eriksson's influence on the sport remains indelible.

(With inputs from agencies.)