And so, for Gareth Southgate and England, Euro 2024 success was snatched at the final hurdle yet again as they lost out to a superior Spanish side in Berlin. The defeat would turn out to be his final game in charge after eight years at the helm, with England confirming his resignation on Tuesday afternoon.
Southgate, 53, led England all the way to the final yet again but his struggled in the final, with Spain the deserved winners at the Olympiastadion on Sunday night.
Last gasp wins over Slovakia and Netherlands, coupled with a dramatic penalty shootout victory over Switzerland had England fans dreaming that maybe, just maybe, it was there time. But yet again, it was simply not meant to be. The first team to lose back-to-back Euros final, many have wondered if Southgate will decide it is time to leave for pastures news - and few would be surprised.
But who would be the favourite to take the England reins now Southgate has departed? Here are the latest odds*.
*All odds are offered by SkyBet and are subject to change at any point. Please gamble responsibly.
1. Eddie Howe - 2/1
Another who has long been tipped as a potential replacement for Gareth Southgate is the Newcastle United boss. He is the early favourite. | Getty Images
2. Graham Potter - 5/2
Still out of work after his sacking at Chelsea last year and has long been tipped as a potential successor to Southgate. He is now second favourite. | Clive Rose Photo: Clive Rose
3. Lee Carsley - 10/3
The England under-21 head coach has already brought tournament success at youth international level and that has put him right in the frame for the role. | Getty Images
4. Frank Lampard - 8/1
Like his England team mate Gerrard, he enjoyed a positive start to his managerial career with Derby County before two poor spells with Chelsea saw his reputation take a hit. | Warren Little Photo: Warren Little