June 10th 2024.
Gareth Southgate has been at the helm of the England national team since 2016, but his contract is set to expire in December. While he has had some success, including leading the team to the semi-finals of the 2018 World Cup, Southgate knows that his future with the team is uncertain.
As he prepares to lead England into another major tournament, the European Championships, Southgate has been candid about his future with the team. In a recent interview with German publication Bild, he admitted that if he fails to guide his team to Euro 2024 glory, he is unlikely to remain in charge beyond this summer.
Despite being one of the favorites to win the Euros, England's lackluster performance in their final warm-up game against Iceland, ranked 72 in the world, has raised some doubts. Southgate will be looking for a much-improved performance from his players as they kick off their group-stage campaign against Serbia this weekend.
It's no secret that Southgate's contract is coming to an end, and the Football Association (FA) is eager for him to sign an extension. However, the 53-year-old has been linked with a move to Manchester United and dropped a hint that he could be ready for a new challenge after eight years with England.
"It might be the last chance," Southgate said, referring to the Euros. "If we don't win, I probably won't be here anymore."
Southgate and the England squad arrived in Germany on Monday, and the speculation surrounding his future continues to swirl. The England manager understands that it's common for national coaches to leave after a major tournament, and he is aware of the pressure to deliver in big moments.
"As a coach, if you want to be successful and considered a top coach, you have to deliver in big moments," he said. "That's the nature of international football."
When asked if he had the option to sign a contract extension before the tournament, Southgate revealed that it wasn't possible. He explained that it would have only added more pressure on the team, as England had a similar situation before the 2010 World Cup with Fabio Capello.
"It's better to evaluate things after the tournament," he said.
Despite the uncertainties surrounding his future, Southgate is confident in the quality and experience of his squad. He believes they have a great depth, especially in attack, and have developed further since the last World Cup.
One player who has been under pressure recently is England captain Harry Kane, who faces constant scrutiny at Bayern Munich. However, Southgate believes this experience will only benefit him on the international stage.
"The pressure to win every week at a big club is good for him," Southgate said. "Our players have to feel that because that is our world. Even when we win and don't play well, it's a drama. The more our players understand that, the better it is."
As Southgate and his team prepare for a potentially defining tournament, the speculation surrounding his future will continue. But for now, his focus remains on leading England to success at the Euros.
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