Managing twenty-two distinct teams across eight different countries defines a career marked by relentless international mobility. Since beginning his coaching tenure in Sweden in 1976, this Croydon native has navigated diverse footballing landscapes, ranging from national squad leadership in Switzerland, Finland, and England to sustained club appointments throughout Europe and within his home country.
Early Development and Transition
Born in 1947 in Croydon, Hodgson attended John Ruskin Grammar School, where he played alongside future contemporaries including Steve Kember and Lennie Lawrence. After failing to establish himself as a first-team player at Crystal Palace, he played non-league football for Tonbridge, Gravesend & Northfleet, and Maidstone United. In 1972, he earned a Certificate in Education from Avery Hill College, pursuing a dual career as a physical education teacher at Alleyn's School while continuing his involvement in football. His playing career concluded in South Africa with Berea Park and later back in England at Carshalton Athletic.
Establishing Success in Sweden
Hodgson moved into management at Allsvenskan club Halmstad in 1976 upon the recommendation of Bob Houghton. His initial period resulted in league titles in 1976 and 1979, an achievement often described as a significant surprise in Swedish football given the club's prior relegation struggles. After a brief, difficult tenure at Bristol City, he returned to Sweden, managing Oddevold and Örebro before taking charge of Malmö in 1985. There, he secured five consecutive league championships, two Swedish championships, and two Swedish Cups, leaving a lasting legacy that led fans to label a section of the stadium as Roy's Hörna.
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Beyond club successes, Hodgson held prominent international posts. He guided the Switzerland national team to the 1994 World Cup last sixteen and qualified for Euro 1996, marking the nation's first major tournament participation in decades. He later managed Finland from 2006 to 2007, propelling the squad to a record-high FIFA ranking of 33rd. From May 2012 to June 2016, he managed the England national team. He remains one of five managers globally to have overseen at least 1,000 club games and 100 international matches.
Diverse Club Tenures
Hodgson’s extensive club history includes spells at Inter Milan, Blackburn Rovers, Grasshoppers, Copenhagen, Udinese, Fulham, Liverpool, West Bromwich Albion, and Watford. His connection to Crystal Palace proved particularly significant, where he managed the side for 200 matches across two separate spells. Throughout his career, he has also served on UEFA and FIFA technical study groups, leveraging his ability to speak five languages to work as a television pundit in various nations where he has coached.
Fast facts
- Born: 1947, Croydon
- First management role: Halmstad (1976)
- Languages spoken: Five
- England national team manager: 2012-2016
- Education: John Ruskin College; Avery Hill College
- Crystal Palace matches managed: 200
- Career status: Still living
- Nationality: United Kingdom
Questions readers ask
How many teams has Roy Hodgson managed?
He has managed 22 different teams across eight countries.
Did he play professional football before coaching?
He was a youth player at Crystal Palace and played non-league football for clubs including Tonbridge, Gravesend & Northfleet, Maidstone United, and Berea Park.
What is his most notable achievement in Swedish football?
He led Malmö to five consecutive league championships and Halmstad to two league titles, including an unexpected championship in 1976.
Achievements
- Worked as association football player and association football coach
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