England boss Gareth Southgate set to address England’s future following Euro final loss to Spain

After Spain’s 2-1 victory over England in the Euro 2024 final on Sunday, England coach Gareth Southgate announced that he would contemplate his future as the national team’s coach. Southgate is once again grappling with the mystery of why his team was unable to secure a victory.

England suffered its second consecutive defeat in the tournament’s championship match under Southgate, as Spain emerged victorious in the 86th minute thanks to a goal scored by substitute Mikel Oyarzabal.

When asked whether he would continue in the position, Southgate responded to reporters, “I completely comprehend the inquiry and recognise the necessity of asking it. However, I must engage in these discussions with significant individuals in private, and I will not disclose them publicly.”

“Undoubtedly, England has a number of exceptional young players.”

“We have maintained our position in the most significant matches.” It is the final phase that we have been unable to complete.

England, who have only won the 1966 World Cup as a significant trophy, have emerged as a strong force in tournaments since Southgate assumed control of the team in 2016.

The most recent two World Cups saw them advance to the semi-finals and quarter-finals, as well as the finals of Euro 2020 and 2024, where they were defeated by Italy on penalties.

When questioned about his potential role as England’s manager for the 2026 World Cup, Southgate responded, “It is difficult to contemplate so soon after a defeat such as this.”

“Of course, to take England to two finals has never been done but we came here to win and we haven’t been able to do that.”

Southgate extended his congratulations to Spain and declared them the most exceptional team of the tournament.

He attributed England’s inability to match Spain’s control of the match or capitalise on the momentum of Cole Palmer’s 73rd-minute equaliser, which was scored two minutes after Nico Williams had put Spain ahead, to fatigue and injuries.

“I think in the main, at the end of the game, the physical issues we had probably took their toll,” according to Southgate.

He expressed his admiration for his players’ “incredible run” in reaching two consecutive European Championship finals.

“But at the moment, I have to say, in my head none of that matters because we had an opportunity to win and we haven’t been able to take it.”