In a shocking revelation, England manager Gareth Southgate has admitted that his future with the national team hinges on their performance at Euro 2024, reported by ESPN. Speaking ahead of the highly anticipated tournament, Southgate confessed that anything less than victory might see him stepping down from his role.

What Gareth Southgate said

Southgate, who has been at the helm for nearly eight years, made his feelings clear in a candid interview. “If we don't win, I probably won't be here anymore,” Southgate stated. “Then it might be the last chance. I've been here almost for eight years now and we've come close.”

Southgate's tenure as England manager has been marked by near misses and heartbreak. He guided the team to the semi-finals of the 2018 World Cup, their best performance in a World Cup since 1990. Then, in Euro 2020, England reached the final, only to lose to Italy in a nerve-wracking penalty shootout. These achievements have brought the team tantalizingly close to glory, but not close enough to end the nation's long wait for a major trophy.

Under Southgate, England has transformed into a formidable force. He has nurtured a new generation of talent, integrating young stars like Phil Foden, Jadon Sancho, and Bukayo Saka into the squad. His calm demeanor and tactical acumen have earned him respect from players and fans alike. However, the ultimate prize has eluded him, and he is acutely aware of the expectations placed upon him and his team.

The Pressure of expectations

The pressure on Southgate and his team is immense. England's last major trophy was the 1966 World Cup, and the nation is desperate for another taste of victory. The fans believe that this squad, with its blend of youth and experience, has what it takes to go all the way. The upcoming Euro 2024 in Germany is seen as a golden opportunity to break the trophy drought.

Southgate's legacy is already significant. He has brought stability and unity to a team that was often criticized for underperforming. He has also been a vocal advocate for social issues, supporting players in taking a stand against racism and promoting mental health awareness. However, he knows that in football, legacies are often defined by silverware.

Preparations for Euro 2024

As England prepares for Euro 2024, all eyes are on Southgate and his squad. The team is expected to be among the favorites, given their recent performances and the depth of talent available. Southgate will be focusing on fine-tuning his tactics and ensuring that his players are in peak condition for the tournament.

If Southgate were to step down, the Football Association would face the daunting task of finding a suitable replacement. Names like Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard have been floated as potential successors, but filling Southgate's shoes would be no easy task. His influence on the team and his role in their recent successes cannot be overstated.

The players, many of whom owe their international careers to Southgate, will be motivated to give their all in what could be their manager's final tournament. Leaders like Harry Kane and individuals will play crucial roles in rallying the squad and ensuring that they perform to the best of their abilities.

Euro 2024 is shaping up to be a defining moment for Gareth Southgate and the England national team. It is a chance to end decades of hurt and finally bring a major trophy back to England. For Southgate, it is also a personal mission to secure his legacy and perhaps extend his stay as manager.

As the tournament approaches, the focus will be on preparation, performance, and unity. Southgate's calm leadership will be crucial in navigating the pressure and expectations. Whether or not England triumphs, Southgate's impact on the national team will be remembered, but a Euro 2024 victory would cement his place in English football history.

The journey to Germany will be filled with anticipation and hope. For Gareth Southgate and his men, it represents the ultimate test and an opportunity to achieve greatness.