In recent news, Gareth Southgate has stated that he may step down as the manager of the England national football team if they do not secure a victory in Euro 2024. This comes as a shock to many, as Southgate’s contract is set to expire in December, with sources indicating that the Football Association is eager for him to continue in his role. Since taking over as manager in 2016, Southgate has led England to significant successes, including a semifinal appearance in the 2018 World Cup and a heartbreaking loss in the Euro 2020 final against Italy. However, the pressure is now on for Southgate to deliver in the upcoming Euros, especially with the emergence of promising young talents such as Jude Bellingham, Cole Palmer, Anthony Gordon, and Kobbie Mainoo.
Following the World Cup in 2018, Gareth Southgate reportedly considered stepping down from his position as he questioned whether he was the right person to lead the team into the future. The disappointment of narrowly missing out on major tournament victories weighed heavily on him, prompting internal reflection on his own capabilities. Southgate’s mindset going into the Euro 2024 is clear – there is immense pressure to succeed this time around. In a recent interview with German newspaper Bild, Southgate expressed that if England does not emerge victorious in the Euros, it is likely that he will not continue as the national team manager. He emphasized the need for delivering results in crucial moments in order to establish England as a top footballing nation.
Despite the upcoming 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico being labeled as an “amazing tournament” by Southgate, he remains unsure about his future as England manager. When asked about the possibility of signing a contract extension prior to the Euros, Southgate referenced past mistakes made by the FA, particularly with Fabio Capello’s situation before the 2010 World Cup. Southgate highlighted the negative impact of premature contract negotiations on team morale and performance, indicating that any decisions regarding his contract will be made post-tournament. This level of uncertainty surrounding his future has left many fans and pundits speculating about the direction of the England national team.
England’s journey in the Euros will kick off with a match against Serbia in Gelsenkirchen, sparking excitement and anticipation among supporters. The team has settled into their base in Blankenhain and is gearing up for their first training session at the Jena Stadium. With high expectations for success in the tournament, Gareth Southgate faces the daunting task of leading his team to glory amidst intense competition from other top footballing nations. The pressure is on Southgate to deliver in Euro 2024, as failure to do so may mark the end of his tenure as the England national team manager.