Not too long ago, the notion of a German managing England seemed like an act of footballing treason, but in 2024, times have changed. The best and most successful teams on the planet now appoint the best managers regardless of their heritage. The doubt about who will replace Southgate is causing some concern for FA chief executive Mark Bullingham. However, there is a chance to solve the problem.
Someone like Jurgen Klopp, a highly regarded elite manager in world football, could be a suitable replacement. He has a deep understanding of English football, speaks the language, and has the respect of everyone in the game, without demanding compensation. The feeling within the FA that another Englishman should follow Southgate is seen as blinkered and backward, as there may not be an Englishman capable of succeeding him. The future of the national team does look bright, with talented players like Jude Bellingham, Phil Foden, Bukayo Saka, Declan Rice, and Kobbie Mainoo.
Despite Southgate’s success, there is still a feeling that he has been unable to clear the final hurdle and win a major tournament. If he fails to do so at Euro 2024, it will be another missed opportunity, and the FA will need to appoint a serial winner capable of taking England to the ultimate goal of winning the World Cup in 2026. Moving on to golf, almost a decade has passed since Rory McIlroy claimed the last of his four Majors, the PGA Championship at Valhalla in 2014. Since then, he has gotten married and started a family.
However, if McIlroy fails to add more Majors to his CV, including the Masters, he will remain one of the most unfulfilled sportsmen on the planet. Despite McIlroy’s past struggles at Augusta, the good news is that he heads into the tournament with only one top ten finish in 2024, which might mean he’ll emerge as the champion this time round.
