Gareth Southgate says 'now not the time' to decide his future

The coach of the English national team, Gareth Southgate, mentions that this is not the right moment to determine what will happen next in his career.

England's national soccer team, known as the Three Lions, lost 2-1 to Spain in the final of Euro 2024 in Berlin this past Sunday.

Southgate, who is 53 years old, has been leading the team since 2016 but his current agreement is scheduled to end in December.

When inquired about his future plans, Southgate stated to the BBC that it is not the appropriate moment to discuss that topic. He mentioned that he will have conversations with the relevant individuals and take some time to make a decision.

Reaching another final was a great honor, but it's tough to accept falling short right now.

During Southgate's tenure as manager, England has made it to two consecutive European finals, reached the semi-finals of the 2018 World Cup, and made it to the quarter-finals of the 2022 World Cup.

He received negative feedback in Germany this month even though England advanced to the knockout rounds as the top team in their group.

Fans threw plastic cups at Southgate after the team tied 0-0 with Slovenia in the first round of the tournament.

Southgate praised the players for their efforts in reaching that point, but emphasized the importance of seizing the opportunity when it presents itself.

"They wore the shirt with a lot of pride and never gave up until the last moment. In my opinion, Spain exhibited better control over the game."

England is in a great place when it comes to the amount of experience they have. A majority of the team will likely be playing in the upcoming World Cup and possibly in the next Euros as well.

"There are many exciting things happening in the future, but right now, it's not bringing any comfort."

Southgate said it was difficult to look back on his eight years in charge, but he believes that England can achieve success in upcoming major tournaments.

"Leading England to two finals is a remarkable accomplishment that has yet to be achieved, but our goal coming here was to secure a win, which unfortunately evaded us," he commented.

England boasts a talented roster of players. They have consistently performed well in important matches, but they have struggled to take that final step to victory.

The leader of the England team, Harry Kane, expressed that the players have a strong affection for the manager. They were determined to win the match for him, especially after experiencing a loss against Italy in a previous game three years ago.

They are now the first country in Euro's history to lose back-to-back finals, while Southgate is the first coach to find himself on the losing team for the second time.

Former English footballer Alan Shearer told BBC One that he thinks it will be Southgate's final game.

People back home will be very disappointed. The team could have been more aggressive in their playing style, but they still managed to reach the final. However, once you have made it that far, you need to push through and secure the win.

The truth is, Southgate led us to a final three years ago and brought us to another final, but did not come out as a winner. This might affect him deeply and make him consider that it's time for a change in leadership.

Former English forward Gary Lineker, appearing on BBC One, suggested that Southgate is possibly feeling worn out from a demanding and challenging role.

In the meantime, retired soccer player Rio Ferdinand believes that Southgate should be held accountable for England's losses in the finals.

"We need to consider the talent we have available, and I don't think we are utilizing them to their fullest potential," Ferdinand said.

The Football Association (FA) needs to make a significant decision.

Ollie Watkins, who plays for England, spoke to BBC Radio 5 Live and said that Southgate has brought a sense of unity to the team.

"These guys are really close," Watkins said.

Ever since his arrival, he's been the most accomplished manager England has ever had - he definitely deserves more recognition. I really wish we had won, as he truly deserves it more than anyone else.

"I've had an amazing seven weeks. I can't praise the coaching staff, support staff, and players enough."

Southgate is backed by his players, but former England defender Matt Upson admitted it has been "difficult" to see them play in Germany.

They have allowed their opponents to score first in eight out of their last 12 games, with the last four being consecutive.

"It has been challenging because there hasn't been a distinct style or strategy," Upson stated.

Gareth has made many smart decisions, but when you look at Spain and how they approach attacking this tournament and breaking it down, the difference is like comparing night and day.