The Football Association (FA) reportedly wants Gareth Southgate to continue as the England manager, regardless of the outcome of the upcoming Euro 2024 final against Spain. Southgate’s current contract is set to expire in December, and the 53-year-old has made it clear that he will only make a decision about his future after the tournament concludes.
Southgate and his team faced a tough challenge in the round-of-16 stage against Slovakia, with Jude Bellingham’s impressive 95th-minute equalizer saving them from elimination. Additionally, Southgate had to deal with beer cups being thrown at him after a group-stage draw against Slovenia. Despite these challenges, England’s remarkable journey to the final in Germany could potentially change the perception of Southgate’s leadership.
Sources have revealed that the FA has always envisioned Southgate leading England into the 2026 World Cup set to be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. To make this a reality, Southgate would need to sign a new contract, extending his tenure as the England boss for a decade, following his appointment in 2016 after Sam Allardyce. The FA has been impressed with Southgate’s achievements, including leading England to their first major final on foreign soil and back-to-back appearances in Euro finals.
Southgate has made significant strides with the England national team, surpassing expectations by securing more competitive knockout victories than all the England managers combined since 1966. His track record includes reaching the semifinals, final, quarterfinal, and final of four major tournaments, showcasing his ability to lead the team to success on the international stage.
FA chief executive, Mark Bullingham, has expressed his admiration for Southgate’s work, noting that he has transformed the team’s fortunes both on and off the pitch. Bullingham emphasized the positive impact of Southgate’s leadership on the team’s culture and performance, making him a valuable asset to English football.
Gareth Southgate’s journey as the England manager has been filled with challenges and triumphs. While the FA’s desire to retain him for the 2026 World Cup highlights their confidence in his abilities, it remains to be seen whether Southgate will choose to continue leading the team after Euro 2024. His contributions to English football cannot be overstated, and he has undoubtedly left a lasting legacy regardless of the outcome of the upcoming final against Spain.
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