Sven-Goran Eriksson’s former mistress, Faria Alam, has bid farewell to the former England manager. At the event, Eriksson’s long-time lover, Nancy Dell’Olio, and his heartbroken partner, Yaniseth Alcides, were present, along with thousands of mourners. Ms. Alam, who met Eriksson while working for the FA, had been out of the spotlight since her affair with Eriksson in 2004 caused a major public scandal. Now living in the USA, she revealed that he had left a lasting impact on her life.

Eriksson was remembered for his words, “I just want him to rest in peace, and see you on the other side if we ever meet. The body deteriorates and dies, but your soul never does. His soul will always remain. I hope his spirit lives on, especially in his children.”

Alam expressed that her experience with Eriksson had given her energy and positivity and that she hoped people remembered her as a decent coach who tried to do her best. She also mentioned that her message to everyone would be “don’t give up. Never give up.” Eriksson won 18 trophies during a distinguished career in club management, including the 1999-2000 Serie A title with Lazio and three Portuguese Primeira Liga titles with Benfica.

He had also guided IFK Goteborg to the UEFA Cup in 1982. Eriksson’s most successful period came at Lazio, where he won the Italian league title, two Italian Cups, and the European Cup Winners’ Cup. He joined the England national team in January 2001, becoming the Three Lions’ first ever non-British coach when he succeeded Kevin Keegan in the role.