Gareth Southgate has acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding his future with the England national team if they fail to secure a victory at Euro 2024.
Having assumed the role in 2016 following Sam Allardyce, the 53-year-old successfully guided the team to the semi-finals of the 2018 World Cup in Russia. However, their failure to clinch any silverware at both Euro 2020 and the 2022 World Cup in Qatar has raised questions about their capabilities.
As they prepare for the upcoming European Championships, England enters the tournament as one of the frontrunners for the title, boasting a formidable attacking lineup. Nonetheless, their lacklustre performance in a 1-0 defeat to Iceland, the 72nd ranked team in the world, has cast doubt on their potential. Southgate is eager for a more positive showing in their upcoming match against Serbia to kick off the group-stage campaign.
With just six months remaining on his contract, Southgate has hinted at the possibility of seeking a new challenge after his eight-year tenure with England. Despite the Football Association (FA) expressing a desire for him to sign an extension, Southgate’s recent comments have raised uncertainty about his future with the national team.
In an interview with the German publication Bild, Southgate remarked, “If we don’t win, I probably won’t be here anymore. Therefore, it might be the last chance. I think around half the national coaches leave after a tournament – that’s the nature of international football. I’ve been here for almost eight years now and we’ve come close.”
The England head coach also highlighted the pressure that players face, specifically referencing Harry Kane’s experiences at Bayern Munich, which could potentially benefit the England national team.
Southgate remains optimistic about England’s potential to challenge top contenders like Germany, stating, “We have a great depth in the squad, especially in attack. The team has developed further since the last World Cup and gained more experience.”
It is evident that Southgate’s future with the England national team is uncertain, and their performance at Euro 2024 will undoubtedly have a significant impact on the coach’s tenure.
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