Southgate Likely To Exit As England Manager After Euro 2024 Setback
Gareth Southgate is expected to step down as England manager following their Euro 2024 final defeat, according to former Three Lions star Alan Shearer. England faced another European Championship disappointment on Sunday, losing 2-1 to Spain in Berlin due to Mikel Oyarzabal's late goal.
Under Southgate, England reached the World Cup semi-finals in 2018 and consecutive Euros finals. "Gareth came in and put a smile on everyone's faces, bringing the squad together," Shearer noted. He praised Southgate for improving the team's mental strength and spirit, which helped them reach another final.
Despite these achievements, England became the first team to lose back-to-back Euros finals. Southgate also became the first manager to lose two European Championship finals. His contract ends in December, sparking speculation about his future.
Reports suggest Eddie Howe, Graham Potter, and Mauricio Pochettino are potential candidates to replace Southgate. Shearer believes the recent defeat might prompt Southgate to step aside. "My guess is he may now say it's someone else's turn," Shearer wrote in his BBC Sport column.
If Southgate decides to leave, Shearer feels he has set up the team well for future success. "He has put the team in an excellent position for someone to take forward," Shearer added.
Future Prospects
The World Cup in 2026 presents a new opportunity for England. Regardless of who leads the team then, Shearer insists Southgate should be proud of his accomplishments. "Gareth will be hurting like hell after what happened in Berlin," Shearer said.
"When the dust settles on Euro 2024, he will decide if he's had enough," Shearer's statement continued. He emphasised that it should be Southgate's decision whether to stay or go.
Southgate took over as England manager in 2016 and has significantly improved the team's standing since then. "If he does leave, he should go with his head held high because England are in a completely different place now compared to where they were when he took over," Shearer concluded.
The support from fans both in Germany and back home has been incredible throughout this journey. The team fell short of their goals this summer but gave everything they had.
We fell short of what we wanted to achieve this summer, but this group gave everything and have done us proud.
Your support in Germany and back home has been incredible.
Thank you.pic.twitter.com/YBivqQXfJe
— England (@England) July 14, 2024
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