Gareth Southgate, 53, has resigned as the England national team manager after an eight-year tenure during which he led the Three Lions to two finals. Attention now turns to who might succeed the former Middlesbrough manager in this highly coveted yet daunting position in international football.
The English Football Association (FA) will aim to appoint Southgate’s successor promptly, potentially even on a short-term basis. This urgency stems from England’s imminent match against Ireland on September 7th, marking the start of their Nations League campaign.
Several prominent names are being considered as potential replacements, each bringing unique qualifications and challenges.
Graham Potter
Currently unattached and possessing significant Premier League experience, Graham Potter is likely to be the bookmakers’ favorite to succeed Southgate. The former manager of Brighton and Chelsea could be an ideal candidate if the FA desires continuity in the style of play that brought the Three Lions to two European Championship finals. Potter’s appointment would be a conservative choice, aligning with the upcoming Nations League fixtures. Although not as prestigious as the World Cup or the European Championship, the Nations League presents an opportunity for England to rectify their previous international shortcomings. Under Potter, England could seamlessly transition from Southgate’s era and make another concerted effort for silverware.
Eddie Howe
Eddie Howe, who has even more extensive Premier League experience than Potter, is another strong contender, although currently committed to managing Newcastle United. While it is rare for managers to simultaneously helm a national team and a club, and especially unusual within the competitive environment of the Premier League, the possibility cannot be entirely dismissed. Newcastle’s underwhelming performance last season places Howe in a precarious position at St James’ Park. Long linked with the England role, Howe might find an offer from the FA too enticing to refuse. Despite the uncertainty surrounding his availability, Howe remains a prominent figure in discussions about Southgate’s successor.
Pep Guardiola
Pep Guardiola, the highly successful Manchester City manager, has been a popular topic among England fans contemplating Southgate’s replacement. Guardiola’s impressive record of winning major honors sets him apart from other candidates. However, it is uncertain whether he would be interested in the England role after his tenure at the Etihad Stadium concludes. With only one year remaining on his contract, Guardiola might be tempted by a new challenge next summer. If the FA decides to pursue Guardiola, they would need to appoint an interim manager for the Nations League. In this context, Lee Carsley, the England U21 manager, might emerge as a viable temporary solution.
Jurgen Klopp
Recently departed from Liverpool, Jurgen Klopp is another high-profile name who excites England fans. Klopp’s dynamic and aggressive style of play would mark a significant departure from Southgate’s more conservative approach. With numerous major honors to his name, Klopp could be seen as the manager capable of delivering England their long-awaited second trophy. However, Klopp has expressed interest in managing the German national team in the future and might prefer to stay available should the opportunity arise. Additionally, Klopp’s recent comments about feeling “burned out” suggest he might need a period of rest before taking on another demanding role.
Sarina Wiegman
No discussion about Southgate’s potential replacements would be complete without mentioning Sarina Wiegman, who has achieved considerable success with the England women’s team. Wiegman has led the Lionesses to two major finals, winning the UEFA Women’s European Championship. Her appointment would be historic, making her the first woman to manage a men’s national team. However, Wiegman is currently focused on the women’s EURO 2025 qualifiers, and her commitment to this campaign could influence her availability.
In conclusion, the FA faces a critical decision in selecting Gareth Southgate’s successor. Each candidate brings a distinct set of experiences and philosophies, and the choice will undoubtedly shape the future trajectory of the England national team.
