The Football Association (FA) is eager for Gareth Southgate to continue as the England manager, regardless of the outcome of the Euro 2024 final against Spain this Sunday. Southgate’s contract is set to expire in December, but sources have revealed that the FA has been impressed by his leadership and are keen to see him stay on. Southgate, 53, had faced criticism and backlash during the tournament, including having beer cups thrown at him after a group-stage draw against Slovenia. However, his ability to navigate these challenges and guide England to the final has shifted sentiment towards him.
There were doubts whether Southgate would continue in his role, especially after England’s close call against Slovakia in the round-of-16. However, his team’s resilient performance and subsequent journey to the final in Germany have seemingly changed the narrative. Sources close to the situation have indicated that the FA has always had intentions for Southgate to lead England into the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. This long-term vision would necessitate Southgate signing a new deal, potentially extending his tenure to a remarkable decade.
Southgate’s achievements during his tenure as England manager have been unprecedented. He led England to their first major final on foreign soil and secured back-to-back Euros finals, with the heartbreak of a penalty shootout loss to Italy at Wembley three years ago. Remarkably, Southgate has more competitive knockout victories than all previous England managers combined since their World Cup triumph in 1966. His success on and off the pitch has not gone unnoticed by the FA, with chief executive Mark Bullingham praising his impact and the transformation of the national team under his guidance.
As England prepare for the Euro 2024 final, the focus remains on the present. Still, the FA’s desire for Southgate to stay on as manager beyond the tournament is evident. Regardless of the result against Spain, Southgate’s legacy and impact on the England team are undeniable. The prospect of leading the team to the 2026 World Cup and potentially building on the success achieved in recent years is an enticing proposition for both Southgate and the FA. The future looks bright for English football under Southgate’s stewardship, and the FA is keen to ensure that he remains at the helm for the foreseeable future.