Gareth Southgate suffered a second defeat in the European Championship final as England lost 2-1 to Spain in Berlin on Sunday.
This loss makes Southgate the first manager in history to be beaten twice in the European Championship final, following their defeat in the Euro 2020 final.
Despite facing criticism for his team’s playing style and selection throughout the tournament, it should be noted that Southgate is the first manager to lead England’s men’s team to two major tournament finals after eight years in charge.
Many fans have reportedly called for Southgate to be sacked or resign following England’s latest heartbreak.
Meanwhile, before the final, Southgate had acknowledged that the result would define him “in the eyes of others”; either achieving immortality with a win or being remembered as a ‘nearly man’ with a loss.
Whether the defeat by Spain spells the end for Southgate with England remains uncertain but it’s believed that had England performed poorly and exited early in Euro 2024, Southgate would have been sacked.
Should Southgate retain his position as England manager?
Southgate took on the challenge of rebuilding the England national team when it was at its lowest point, having faced disappointment and underachievement for decades.
Despite the pressure and high expectations, he has managed to turn the team around and lead them to unimaginable success.
Under his leadership, England reached the semi-finals of the 2018 World Cup and the final of Euro 2020, coming close to victory but ultimately falling short. He continued to build on this success, guiding the team to the quarter-finals of the 2022 World Cup and another final at Euro 2024.
Despite his impressive record of 62 wins, 23 draws, and 17 losses in 102 matches, some critics dismiss his achievements because of the lack of a major tournament victory. However, for some England supporters, reaching two finals in three years is an unprecedented feat that cannot be overlooked.
Southgate’s impact on the England team cannot be denied, as he has brought them closer than ever before to international reckoning and has achieved more success than most of his predecessors.
His ability to rebuild a fractured culture and instill a winning mindset in the team is truly remarkable.
The Football Association wants Southgate to stay
Reports have indicated that the Football Association (FA) is keen on keeping Southgate as the head of the England squad, regardless of their loss to Spain.
When questioned about his future post-match, Southgate explained to ITV that a decision would be made in due time, stating: “Now is not the appropriate moment to make such a decision.”
“I need to consult with the necessary individuals. This is not something to be decided upon now.”
What’s next for Gareth Southgate?
The England job is widely recognized as challenging, but enduring eight years of constant scrutiny and criticism as a coach and tactician is exceptionally gruelling, facing doubts and ridicule from fans and experts alike.
As England begins to rebuild and focus on the 2026 World Cup, the question remains: Will Southgate continue to lead the team, or will there be a new commander in charge?
What’s your take on this, do you think Gareth Southgate deserves to be retained as England’s coach? Please, share your thoughts with us in the opinion box below:
