Gareth Southgate has suggested he may not sign a new long-term contract as England manager, despite leading the team to the Euro 2020 final. The 50-year-old's current deal expires after the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, and he admitted he needs a break after the penalty shootout defeat to Italy.
Speaking after the match, Southgate said: 'I don't think now's an appropriate time to think about anything. I need some time to go away, watch last night's game again, reflect on the whole tournament. It's an amazing experience but to lead your country in these tournaments takes its toll and I need a break now.'
The Football Association had hoped to open talks with Southgate about a new deal after the European Championship, but the manager expressed caution. 'I don't want to commit to anything longer than I should and I never want to outstay my welcome,' he said.
Despite the defeat, Southgate indicated he would like to lead England at the World Cup in Qatar, which begins in November 2022. 'As I sit here today I would want to be taking the team to Qatar. I feel that we've made progress over the four years,' he said, citing fourth, third, and second-place finishes.
Southgate acknowledged the pain of coming so close to victory: 'We know this team isn't at its peak yet but that doesn't guarantee winning because we know how difficult it is to get back to the state we've got to last night. That's why it's so painful.'
