Gareth Southgate has broken his silence on his future as England manager, confirming that scheduled talks with the Football Association will determine whether he remains at the helm of the Three Lions.
The 53-year-old, who led England to a second consecutive European Championship final, revealed he has yet to make a definitive decision about his next move. His current contract is set to expire in December, placing the FA under pressure to secure his services or begin the search for a new leader.
A Period of Reflection After Final Heartbreak
Speaking after the devastating 2-1 loss to Spain in Berlin, Southgate emphasised the need for a period of calm reflection before any concrete decisions are made. The emotional toll of a major tournament, particularly one ending in narrow defeat, requires time away from the immediate spotlight to properly evaluate the journey and the future.
"I need to talk to the seniors at the FA and I need to make my own decision, based upon what I feel is right," Southgate stated, outlining the process ahead.
The FA's Stance and Potential Successors
While the FA's preference is for Southgate to continue his transformative work, contingency plans are undoubtedly being drawn up. The potential departure of assistant manager Steve Holland, a trusted lieutenant throughout Southgate's tenure, adds another layer of complexity to the decision. Holland is also considering his options after a long and successful partnership.
Should Southgate decide to step down, the FA will be tasked with appointing only the fifth permanent England manager of the 21st century. The role carries immense expectation, and finding a successor capable of building on the progress made under Southgate will be a monumental challenge.
A Legacy of Progress and Near Misses
Regardless of his decision, Southgate's legacy is secure. He has fundamentally changed the culture around the England team, guiding them to a World Cup semi-final in 2018, the Euro 2020 final, and now another final in 2024. He has reconnected the team with a disillusioned fanbase and created a cohesive, resilient unit capable of competing with the world's best.
The coming weeks will be crucial for the future of English football. The outcome of the talks between Southgate and FA chief executive Mark Bullingham will set the course for the 2026 World Cup campaign and beyond.
