“We could have been world champions.”
“I couldn’t have done anything better.”
“I want to make the right decision. That takes some time.”
★★★
Three sentences after the quarterfinals against France (1: 2), which give a glimpse into the emotional life of England coach Gareth Southgate (52).
Is he throwing? Out of disappointment and despite a contract until after the EM 2024?
Thomas Tuchel (49), winner of the 2021 Champions League with Chelsea and currently without a club, is considered a successor candidate in this case.
BILD knows: With a view to the World Cup, the English association (FA) had felt the German coach out because trust in Southgate had been damaged in the meantime (including bankruptcies against Hungary, relegation from the Nations League). Tuchel would probably not have been averse to leading England to Qatar.
Violent reaction This is how Mbappé watched the Kane penalty
But the World Cup changed everything in Southgate’s favour. The FA now want him to continue – because he’s managed to forge a real, promising team.
In a top game, runners-up England were the better team against defending champions France, had more possession and chances to score.
Gareth Southgate has coached England since 2016 but could now step down
But England failed again at the penalty spot.
Ironically, Harry Kane (29), who had safely converted his first penalty, threw the second far over it with too much risk (84th). A goal would probably have meant extra time. “It wasn’t his fault. We win and lose as a team,” Southgate defended his captain.
And he’s campaigning for Southgate. Kane: “We played a great tournament and I think we have a bright future. We love having Gareth as a coach and want him to stay. It is his decision.”
Who Southgate will probably want to meet after Christmas. If he says no to a future as England coach, Tuchel would be the first candidate.
