It comes after an 18-year playing career which saw the former defender play at the highest level, both in England and abroad. Scroll down and flick through our gallery to look back at Woodgate’s journey, from Leeds United’s youth team to his appointment as Boro boss.
5. 2005: Nightmare debut
Woodgate finally made his Galacticos debut against Athletic Bilbao but was sent off after scoring an own goal at the Bernabeu. Photo: Richard Heathcote
6. 2005-2006: First Real goal
Woodgate made 14 appearances for Real the following season and scored his only goal for the club in a 4-1 Champions League victory over Rosenborg BK. Photo: Denis Doyle
7. 2006: A return to Teesside
At the start of the 2006/07 season, Woodgate signed for his hometown club Middlesbrough on a season-long loan. Photo: Alex Livesey
8. 2006: An impressive first season
Woodgate made his Boro debut in a 1-1 draw with Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium and quickly became a regular at the Riverside. Photo: Ryan Pierse