Defeat Signifying the Possible Departure of Southgate, but Leaving with Dignity

Gareth Southgate is likely to call it quits as England manager following their recent defeat against Spain. While the loss in Berlin may weigh heavily on him, it seems that after the conclusion of Euro 2024, Southgate will feel that he has reached his limit, SSP reported.

With respect to Southgate's tenure, this decision needs to remain his alone. After eight years, the job has undoubtedly taken its toll, and he has brought England to a far better place than when he took charge in 2016.

England was at rock bottom after the humiliating loss to Iceland, coupled with Sam Allardyce's sudden departure. However, Southgate came in and revitalized the team, leading them to the World Cup semi-finals in 2018 and ultimately to the final of the European Championship in 2021. All of this was achieved with a somewhat less talented squad than the current one.

His work not only improved the team's mental state but also fostered a remarkable spirit, as evidenced by their remarkable journey to the final this time around.

Despite all these accomplishments, it was unfortunate that Southgate couldn't fully unlock the potential of the team in Germany. This made all the difference between reaching another final and winning one.

Taking this into consideration, Southgate may pass the mantle on to someone else, acknowledging that it's their turn to lead England to victory. Nevertheless, he will be leaving the team in a fantastic position for the next coach, who will have the opportunity to build on Southgate's foundation and achieve further success.

Although Spain proved to be the superior side, the expectations were higher for England in Berlin. Interestingly, Spain commanded possession, which hadn't been the case in their previous matches. Rather than challenging them, England allowed them to play at their own pace, which gave the highly talented Spanish team room to inflict damage.

Despite some close calls, including Jordan Pickford's crucial save and missed opportunities from Spain, they ultimately deserved their victory. It was evident that Spain had dominated the competition, as they demonstrated with their winner slicing through England's defense with ease.

It is worth noting that despite England's superb attitude, commitment, and unity as a team, they struggled to play the style of football necessary throughout the tournament. While there were occasional flashes of brilliance, such as the initial 30 minutes against Serbia and a spell in the first half against the Netherlands in the semifinals, it wasn't consistent in any of the seven games played in Germany. Most of their best attacking moments came as a result of reacting to going behind, rather than proactive play.

To achieve victory, England must embrace their abilities and play with a similar assertiveness as Spain did when the game was evenly balanced. Although Southgate made some correct decisions, Spain also made impactful changes at key moments. Ultimately, they were the ones to get over the line and claim victory. Regrettably, England fell short of achieving the ending everyone had hoped for this time around.