The Football Association (FA) has identified several candidates to succeed Gareth Southgate as England’s manager following his resignation on Tuesday after the Euro 2024 final defeat against Spain. Southgate’s departure ends his eight-year tenure, prompting the FA to launch a search for a manager capable of winning a major tournament.
Bookmakers have listed several potential replacements, including Newcastle manager Eddie Howe, former Chelsea managers Graham Potter, Mauricio Pochettino, and Thomas Tuchel, as well as Tottenham coach Ange Postecoglou.
The FA emphasized that the selection process is open to anyone meeting the criteria outlined in the job profile released on Friday. The profile states, “Our succession planning process has already identified a number of candidates; in addition to this we are committed to open recruitment processes in the football industry.”
While Southgate restored England’s reputation, he was unable to secure a major trophy, leaving the country still waiting for a significant win since the 1966 World Cup. The FA aims to find a manager who can lead and develop the England senior men’s team to win a major tournament and maintain a top global ranking.
The role requires a UEFA Pro Licence, significant experience in English football, and a strong track record in the Premier League or leading international competitions. The FA also stressed the importance of leadership qualities, resilience, and the ability to handle intense public scrutiny.
In a related move towards inclusivity, the FA encourages applications from diverse backgrounds, emphasizing equality, diversity, and inclusion.
England Women’s coach Sarina Wiegman, who led the team to victory in the 2022 Women’s European Championship, has been mentioned as a possible candidate.
The FA has set August 2 as the deadline for applications, with England’s first match of the new season, a Nations League clash against the Republic of Ireland, scheduled for September 7.