As Gareth Southgate steps down as the England manager after his eight-year tenure, various names have emerged as potential replacements. Among the leading candidates are Eddie Howe, Graham Potter, and Mauricio Pochettino. However, Lee Carsley and Thomas Tuchel are also being considered by the Football Association (FA) for the role.
Southgate faced intense personal criticism during the recent Euro 2024 final defeat to Spain, causing him to consider leaving his post. Despite guiding the team to back-to-back Euros finals and their first-ever on foreign soil, Southgate and his team faced challenges during the tournament. The FA’s stance on Southgate staying through to the 2026 World Cup has not been discussed with any candidate, but they prefer an English candidate if possible.
Eddie Howe led Newcastle to a top-four finish in 2022-23, securing a Champions League spot for the first time in 20 years. Graham Potter has been on the FA’s radar for some time, even before his stint at Chelsea. Mauricio Pochettino, who recently left Chelsea, is also available for the position. The FA is open to appointing a manager born overseas, as seen with Sarina Wiegman coaching the England women’s team.
FA technical director John McDermott, a key figure in the search for Southgate’s successor, has a close relationship with Mauricio Pochettino from their time together at Tottenham. This could potentially sway the decision in Pochettino’s favor. Lee Carsley, with limited managerial experience beyond youth teams and caretaker roles, is another possible candidate for the role.
Jürgen Klopp, who left Liverpool at the end of last season, is also an intriguing alternative. While Klopp expressed the need for a break from the game, the possibility of managing the national team has not been ruled out. Despite interest from the United States Soccer, a move for Klopp is deemed unlikely. Thomas Tuchel, with a successful coaching record at top clubs, remains fond of English football and could be a strong contender for the England manager position.
The search for Gareth Southgate’s replacement as the England manager is underway, with various candidates being considered. The decision will have significant implications for the national team’s future and could shape their performance in upcoming tournaments. It remains to be seen who will ultimately take on the challenging role of leading one of football’s most prestigious teams.
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