The aspirations for a triumph are central to Gareth Southgate’s leadership as England’s coach, especially during the forthcoming Euro 2024. After clinching the second position at Euro 2020, the pressure mounts for improved results.
Back in September 2016, Southgate embarked on his journey as England’s interim manager, later solidifying his role by December. Under his command, the squad reached the semi-finals and quarter-finals of the 2018 and 2022 World Cups. Their crowning achievement under his guidance was coming second at Euro 2020 on their homeland stages.
With the tournament on the horizon, the team set off for Germany this Monday. Their first contest is scheduled against Serbia in Gelsenkirchen come Sunday.
The stakes are high not only for England but also for Southgate, with his tenure’s closure penciled in for year’s end. He openly conceded that a lackluster performance might cut his stint short, expressing, “If we don’t secure a victory, my days here could be numbered. This tournament might very well be my final shot,” during a candid chat.
“Statistically, about half the national coaches depart post-tournament. That’s just the ebb and flow of international soccer,” he remarked. Having served nearly eight years, Southgate is keenly aware that promises can only stretch so far before confidence wanes.
“To be seen as a top-notch squad and a premier coach, one must clinise victory when it counts,” he added.
Following their initial match against Serbia, the England team will tussle with Denmark and Slovenia in Group C, looking to not just compete, but dominate.
