“We can only hope!”, “No surprise” - Fans react as Gareth Southgate makes decision on continuing as England manager after Euro 2024
Fans have reacted to news of England boss Gareth Southgate's future after losing the Euro 2024 final against Spain. According to journalist Alan Nixon, Southgate's departure is set to be announced soon.
The Three Lions reached their second consecutive European Championship final under Southgate this year in Germany. Despite being criticized for their performances, and showing turbulent form at times, England managed to advance to the final.
After winning just one group stage fixture, Gareth Southgate's side beat Slovakia, Switzerland, and the Netherlands to book a spot in the final against Spain. However, England suffered a 1-2 defeat to La Roja and lost the chance to win their first major international trophy since 1966.
Gareth Southgate's contract with the Three Lions is set to expire in December and there have been questions over his future. During the tournament, the English boss himself admitted that he would likely part ways if they failed to win the Euro 2024.
Journalist Alan Nixon reported that the 53-year-old's departure announcement will be made soon. He wrote on X
"Southgate departure announcement shortly … very shortly."
Most fans seem to be elated with the report, with some claiming that it has been long overdue. One supporter questioned the integrity of the news and wrote on X:
While another wrote:
Here are the rest of their reactions:
"Please be true" one fan wrote.
"No surprise" wrote another.
"Wow only 8 years too late" one supporter claimed.
"We can only hope!" wrote one fan.
"Taking longer than his subs" one fan joked.
"Good riddance" wrote another.
"Great day for England if true." one supporter wrote.
"Now is not the time" - Gareth Southgate remains coy on England future after Euro 2024 loss
England locked horns with Spain in the Euro 2024 final in Berlin, Germany, on Sunday, July 14. Neither side could break the deadlock in the opening 45 minutes as they headed into the break at 0-0.
Nico Williams scored the first goal of the night for Spain just two minutes after the second half commenced, giving La Roja the lead. Cole Palmer then equalized with an extraordinary finish from outside the box in the 73rd minute and the Three Lions were back in the contest. However, Mikel Oyarzabal ended England's hopes after scoring the match-winner in the 86th minute and Spain became European champions.
Speaking after England's defeat, Gareth Southgate was asked about his future. The 53-year-old refused to speak on it and said (via BBC):
"Now is not the time for me to speak about that. I need to talk to the right people and give myself a bit of time. To get to another final... it was a privilege to have the opportunity. But to come up short is hard at the moment."