Former England manager Sven-Göran Eriksson has announced he has been diagnosed with terminal cancer and, in a best-case scenario, has approximately one year left to live. The 75-year-old Swede, who led England from 2001 to 2006, disclosed his condition in an interview with Swedish Radio P1, stating that he intends to fight the disease as long as possible.
Eriksson revealed that the cancer was discovered after he collapsed unexpectedly, having gone for a five-kilometre run the day before. He was also told he had suffered a stroke. Despite the grim prognosis, Eriksson emphasised the importance of maintaining a positive outlook, saying, 'It's better not to think about it. You have to trick your brain.'
The news has prompted an outpouring of support from former players and clubs. Wayne Rooney, who made his England debut under Eriksson, described him as 'a brilliant coach and a special person' in a social media post. The England national team's X account sent their love, while Manchester City, Leicester City, and Notts County also expressed their best wishes.
Eriksson's managerial career began with modest success at IFK Gothenburg before he moved to Benfica, Roma, Fiorentina, and Sampdoria. He led Lazio to the Serie A title in 2000 before becoming England's first non-British manager. During his tenure, he oversaw the famous 5-1 win over Germany in Munich but could not guide the so-called 'Golden Generation' beyond the quarter-finals of major tournaments.
Reflecting on his decision to leave Lazio for England, Eriksson admitted he sometimes wondered if it was the right choice, saying, 'Maybe I should have stayed in Lazio where I was celebrated as a king.' After England, he managed Manchester City, Mexico, Ivory Coast, Leicester, and clubs in China before stepping down as sporting director of Karlstad 11 months ago due to health issues.
