England’s footballers have begun their journey home after a heart-breaking defeat to Spain in the final of Euro 2024.
Emerging from the Ritz-Carlton Hotel in Berlin, where they had been staying, team members and coaching staff were clapped out by watching fans and staff as they made their way to the coach.
Manager Gareth Southgate waved to those watching amid speculation over his future after successive defeats in Euros finals.
A large group of well-wishers watched from behind railings as the squad made their way into the England coach.
Clapping could be heard as defender Kieran Trippier made the short walk.
Phil Foden, carrying a cup of coffee, waved to fans as he made his brief public appearance.
The players looked calm but resigned as they exited their accommodation.
They will now be wanting to mentally and physically “reset”, said Sky News’s Jacquie Beltrao, who is in Berlin.
They will also be looking forward to a holiday and spending time with their families.
After going behind, Southgate’s men levelled against Spain with an exquisite shot from substitute Cole Palmer.
But Spain’s Mikel Oyarzabal broke England hearts with a winning goal in the 86th minute.
Richard Caborn, former minister of sport, said the “nation can be very proud of the team, and definitely proud of the manager as well – the way he’s conducted himself”.
He told Sky News: “I think it’s been an inspiration for tens of thousands of youngsters back here in England.”
Mr Caborn added: “What you’re seeing going on to that coach are some real role models – young people [who] through adversity have been able to develop themselves and put on that Three Lions shirt.”
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Prince William, who was in the stadium on Sunday night, said: “This time it just wasn’t meant to be.”
The president of the Football Association added on social media: “We’re all still so proud of you.”