SUMMARY
- Gareth Southgate has got England close to a major international trophy multiple times but they cannot find the killer blow.
- If the UEFA Euro 2024 ends in similar fashion, it is time for Southgate to take his leave from the Three Lions.
Gareth Southgate has been an integral part of England’s recent resurgence. Under the former Middlesbrough manager’s leadership, the Three Lions have reached a World Cup semi-final and a Euros final – feats that had become distant memories for England. Yet, despite these deep runs, the question lingers: is Southgate the man to finally deliver the English national soccer team a trophy?
Gareth Southgate’s reign has been a mixed bag. He has helped foster a positive team spirit along with incorporating young talent into the squad like Phil Foden and Jude Bellingham. However, his rigidity, particularly in midfield selection, has drawn criticism.
Gareth Southgate by picking Jordan Henderson and Kalvin Phillips https://t.co/fCiiq8Z5Sf
— Andy Dowding (@Andy_Doods) February 17, 2024
Jordan Henderson and Kalvin Phillips, hard-workers but not always at their best in club soccer, have often found themselves favored over the likes of the in-form James Maddison. This loyalty to certain players, coupled with tactically faulty substitutions at important points in the match, leaves supporters hoping to find someone with a more adventurous approach.
UEFA Euro 2024 should decide the future of Gareth Southgate
The upcoming UEFA Euro 2024 offers Southgate a chance to silence his doubters. England boasts a formidable squad with exceptional players for every position on the pitch. Kane remains a world-class finisher, while the likes of Bellingham and Declan Rice promise midfield dynamism. England is pitted against Serbia, Denmark, and Slovenia in the group stage of the Euros.
England and Germany have two of the strongest midfield trios in world football right now 🏴🇩🇪
Which would you rather have going into Euro 2024? 👀 pic.twitter.com/n7ZI5CQYat
— UtdGabbi (@UtdGabbii) March 28, 2024
The path to glory won’t be straightforward. France, boasting Kylian Mbappe, seeks redemption after their World Cup defeat. Germany, with the likes of Jamal Musiala and Joshua Kimmich, remains a powerhouse. Italy would want to defend their crown with all their heart. Competition will be fierce.
Gareth Southgate’s tactical ability will be tested from the get-go. Does he stick to his tried-and-tested approach again, or will he adapt to unlock his team’s full attacking potential? Can he find the right balance? His ability to manage big-game pressure and make game-changing decisions will also be under the microscope.
The outcome of Euro 2024 should define Southgate’s future. A triumph will solidify his legacy – the man who finally ended England’s trophy drought. It would be a fitting reward for his efforts. But if England falters once more, particularly if tactical shortcomings are exposed again, then a change might be necessary. The fans’ patience is wearing thin; they crave not just deep runs, but silverware.
In conclusion, should Gareth Southgate deliver the long-awaited trophy, there’s no reason why he shouldn’t lead the Three Lions into the 2026 World Cup. But failure to do so might signal the time to explore other options and seek a new direction for England.