Sven-Goran Eriksson Reflects on Life and Legacy Amid Terminal Illness

Iconic former England football manager, Sven-Goran Eriksson, has shared an emotional farewell with fans and the football community as he faces terminal pancreatic cancer.

The 76-year-old Eriksson has reflected on his life, career, and legacy in an upcoming documentary titled «Sven», set to be released on August 23 on Amazon Prime Video.

Eriksson is best known for becoming the first foreign manager of England’s national football team in 2001. During his five-year tenure, he led England through three major tournaments, including the World Cup and European Championship.

Despite having a squad known as the ‘Golden Generation’ featuring players like David Beckham, Steven Gerrard, and Wayne Rooney, Eriksson’s teams faced challenges and were eliminated in the quarter-final stages of major competitions.

Reflecting on his time with England, Eriksson expressed pride in his contributions to English football. He stated, «I had a good life, yes. I hope you will remember me as a positive guy trying to do everything he could do.»

In January, Eriksson publicly revealed his diagnosis, sharing that he has been given just a year to live. As he approaches the end of his journey, his farewell message is both poignant and uplifting.

«Don’t be sorry… smile,» he advises. «Life is about death as well. You have to learn to accept it for what it is.»

Eriksson’s farewell tour has included visits to football grounds across Europe, including teams such as Lazio, Benfica, and Sampdoria, reconnecting with former players, colleagues, and fans along the way.

Beyond his football career, Eriksson’s personal life has also drawn significant media attention, including high-profile relationships with Nancy Dell’Olio, Ulrika Jonsson, and FA secretary Faria Alam. He acknowledges these relationships candidly in the documentary.

In the documentary, Eriksson comments, «Sex is one of the good things in life for all of us… I didn’t really disturb anyone.»

Despite the personal controversies, Eriksson’s contributions to football remain his defining legacy, marked by numerous league titles and cups throughout his management career.

The song «Sven, Sven, Sven» by the duo Bell & Spurling humorously captures Eriksson’s time as England manager, highlighting his cultural impact in the UK.

As he approaches his final days, Eriksson desires to be remembered for his love of the game and the positive impact he has had on those surrounding him. «Thank you for everything – coaches, players, the crowd. It’s been fantastic,» he shares in his farewell message.