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England manager Gareth Southgate stated "now was not the time" to announce if he would stay on as manager after the defeat by Spain in Sunday's Euro 2024 final.
Southgate, who has been in charge since 2016, has led England through two World Cups and two European Championships. The Football Association (FA) wants him to stay, but his contract ends in December.
Despite reaching the semi-final of the 2018 World Cup and two Euros finals, Southgate has faced criticism.
So what happens next?
How Long Will Southgate Take to Decide?
No one can be sure about this. Southgate has a contract until December, so in theory, there is no time pressure. However, with clubs about to start pre-season and less than five weeks until the 2024-25 Premier League campaign, it would be beneficial to have clarity sooner rather than later.
When Do England Play Next?
England’s next game is against the Republic of Ireland in Dublin in the Nations League on 7 September. The September, October, and November international double-headers are reserved for Nations League games. The 2026 World Cup qualifying round draw is set to take place later this year, with matches beginning in March 2025.
Who Will Help Make the Decision?
The FA's technical director, John McDermott, will be a key figure. McDermott was head of academy, coach, and player development at Tottenham for 15 years before moving to the FA in 2020. FA chief executive Mark Bullingham and chair Debbie Hewitt are the most senior non-football figures at the organization. EFL chair Rick Parry and FA Board member Jobi McAnuff, who had a 20-year playing career, may also provide useful input.
Will They Have Planned Ahead?
Almost certainly, there will be an outline plan. The FA hasn't been in this position since 2016 when Roy Hodgson resigned after the embarrassing Euros exit to Iceland. Back then, Sam Allardyce came in but only lasted 67 days before he was sacked. Southgate was promoted from England Under-21 boss initially on an interim basis.
What Are the Other Factors? What Are They Looking For?
The FA has invested millions into St George's Park, aiming to elevate coaching standards. Yet, no English coach has won the Premier League. If Southgate leaves, should the replacement be English and focus on development teams, or someone from overseas interested only in the senior team? The job is highly scrutinized, so top-level experience as a player or manager is essential.
As Southgate decides, the FA must wrestle with these issues. As always, getting rid of a coach is the easy part. Finding the right replacement is far more difficult.