Gareth Southgate anticipates a significant moment before potentially making his final appearance as England's manager at Euro 2024.
A country's hopes and dreams have been carried by him, both as a player and as a manager, in the emotionally charged world of soccer, with its colorful mix of positive and negative feelings and razor-thin margins.
As he prepares for his fourth and potentially last major tournament as England's manager at the upcoming Euro 2024 in Germany, he understands that history is determined by the victors. Southgate spoke to CNN Sport's Amanda Davies about the importance of these tournaments and their role in being judged. "The tournaments are what you're there for. Ultimately, you'll be judged based on whether we win this."
Twice, he and his England team have come close to etching their names into the annals of football history. First, they made it to the semifinals of the 2018 World Cup and were defeated by Croatia and their talisman Luka Modrić. This run won over many fans in England and gave rise to a much-loved waistcoat trend. Later, they came within a penalty shootout of winning Euro 2020 against Italy, only to be stopped one step short. Some praised their unfaltering unity during the fallout from racist abuse on social media, directed at their penalty takers.
The wait for a trophy for the men's team continues, with 58 years since the World Cup win in 1966.
"At the time, I wouldn't have said that making the semifinals in Russia was a realistic goal due to the team's state before that," said Southgate. "We were just one penalty away, one goal not conceded away from being European champions," he added. In his view, breaking through is only possible by taking that last step ahead.
England and France lead as favorites for the upcoming tournament, with Germany as the host. When asked if this is indeed the best chance, Southgate responded, "It's the next chance, so only afterwards will we know if it was the best chance. It's still a chance to make history or not. It's about performing in the moments that matter."
He acknowledges the stakes are high for his team in England, but he is comfortable with that. "We know we're one of the teams that can win the tournament. Knockout football means anything can happen... It's about delivering when it matters most."
Some detractors have critiqued Southgate's tactical approach, labeling it anything from conservative to boring. Regardless, he notes the benefits of having a wealth of impressive players at his disposal – from Trent Alexander-Arnold's creativity to Jude Bellingham's authority, Phil Foden's skill, Bukayo Saka's creativity, and Harry Kane's precision.
So, is this an unenviable blessing or curse?
"Definitely a blessing," he said firmly. "I would rather have good players than none at all."
He continued to defend his decisions in shielding his squad from harsh criticism: "We've had some consistency in our selection. We've given younger players opportunities. Some positions just haven't had the level of competition we have in other places... And a lot of these players are the best players there are in their respective positions. I have faith in our approach."
Southgate is no stranger to the volatile media climate surrounding the England team. He went from being lauded as a savior in their 1996 run to being labeled a sinner for his missed penalty against Germany in the semifinals. Years of ridicule ensued. But strong and consistent leadership built on empathy, humility, and genuineness have allowed him to moves past that image. Could a win in Germany this summer complete his inspiring journey?
"No, I don't believe in fairy tales," admitted a humble Southgate. "There are so many instances where things were set up for success, but fell short.
"Beating Germany in the last Euros was a huge accomplishment for us. We hadn't won against them in a knockout game since 1966.
"A coach or manager's job is to focus on their team and their plan is more than just them.
"It's up to me to decide my destiny"
Yet, there's been plenty of speculation regarding Southgate's future with the ongoing Europen tournament.
Although his contract with the FA expires in December 2024, they're said to be eager to keep him on board till the 2026 World Cup.
Manchester United is allegedly interested in recruiting him, but Southgate refuses to be slowed down by these distractions. "I'll be the one making the call," he smiled confidently. "Right now, I'm solely focused on leading this team to victory.
"It wouldn't be wise to think about my future before that point, as I understand what needs to be done.
"Your mind should be entirely on your team during a tournament like this. It's true that you might be the only one thinking about England right now, but once it starts, everyone else will follow suit.
Southgate, despite heading the national team, recognizes his lack of experience in management. Before joining the national scene, he managed Middlesbrough for only three years.
His dismissal in October 2009 led to four years of obscurity before he took charge of the English Under-21 team in 2013. He eventually ascended to the senior level in November 2016, stepping in as interim manager after Sam Allardyce's exit.
With his path forward unclear, Southgate acknowledges the opportunities but prioritizes his current role.
"Making a move to club management isn't something to consider right now," said Southgate. "I've got a significant task at hand. My future depends on this tournament's outcome.
"I've got about 250 managerial games under my belt because my journey has been unique compared to others. I have a lot more to experience during my life and many more goals to achieve."
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Southgate's team nearly etched their names in football history during Euro 2020, coming close to beating Italy in the final via a penalty shootout.
During his preparation for Euro 2024, Southgate has emphasized the importance of seizing each opportunity to make history in the world of football.
Source: edition.cnn.com
