As the dust settles on another heart-wrenching defeat, the call for change at the helm of England’s national football team grows louder. With Gareth Southgate’s tenure possibly drawing to a close after England’s narrow loss to Spain in the Euro 2024 final, the search for a new manager is on. Before diving into the nitty-gritty of the final and the odds on the next managerial appointment, let’s take a moment to appreciate the rollercoaster that is managing the England football team. If you think you’ve got what it takes, here is our official Football Coach Job Description, from our job description library, that might help you decide if this is your next career move.

What Happened in the Final?

The historic Olympiastadion in Berlin witnessed another chapter in England’s saga of “so close, yet so far.” The match was a gripping affair, with England fans dreaming of redemption after the Euro 2020 defeat. However, the Spaniards had other plans. Despite a valiant effort, including a late equaliser from substitute Cole Palmer, England succumbed to a 2-1 defeat, courtesy of a decisive goal by Mikel Oyarzabal.

Battling fitness issues and the weight of expectations, Harry Kane struggled to make his mark. The captain’s laboured performance underscored the team’s broader challenges. Even with the Golden Boot in his grasp, his substitution in the 61st minute was a poignant moment, symbolising perhaps the end of an era.

Odds on the Next England Manager

With Southgate’s future hanging in the balance, speculation is rife about who will step into one of the most scrutinised roles in football. Here are the top contenders according to the latest odds:

1. Graham Potter – 3/1: The former Brighton and Chelsea manager is lauded for his tactical understanding and ability to nurture young talent. Could he be the fresh voice England needs?
2. Eddie Howe – 5/1: Newcastle United’s resurgence under Howe has not gone unnoticed. His managerial style could bring a new dimension to the national team.
3. Mauricio Pochettino – 8/1: The Argentine has a wealth of experience in the Premier League and a knack for getting the best out of his players. However, will the FA look abroad for inspiration?
4. Steven Gerrard – 10/1: A legend on the pitch, Gerrard has shown promise as a manager. Is it too soon for him to take on the national team, or is he the perfect fit?
5. Emma Hayes – 15/1: The Chelsea Women’s manager is a trailblazer with a proven track record. Could she break new ground by becoming the first female manager of the England men’s team?

Will Southgate Stay On?

Southgate has brought stability and respect back to the England setup, reaching the latter stages of major tournaments consistently. However, his inability to clinch a trophy might prove his undoing. The decision to stay or go is as much about his appetite for the fight as it is about the FA’s vision for the future. With the World Cup 2026 on the horizon, a fresh approach could be needed to transform “nearly” into “champions.”

England Football Manager Job Description

In case you think you’ve got the chops for this monumental task, here’s what the role entails:

Job Title: England National Football Team Manager

Location: Wembley Stadium, London

Job Type: Full-Time (subject to performance review after each major tournament!)

Salary: Competitive (with potential bonuses for exceeding the nation’s perpetually high expectations)

Reports To: The Football Association (FA) and, unofficially, the entire nation

Job Overview:

The Football Association seeks an experienced, innovative, and resilient individual to manage the England National Football Team. This role demands exceptional leadership, strategic prowess, and the ability to thrive under immense public scrutiny. The ideal candidate will deeply understand football tactics, player development, and media management.

Key Responsibilities:

• Squad Selection: Identify and select the best players from a talent pool rich with potential and public opinion. Balance experience with emerging talent to create a cohesive and competitive team.
• Tactical Development: Design and implement tactical strategies that maximise team strengths and adapt to different opponents. Emphasise fluidity, creativity, and adaptability in gameplay.
• Training and Development: Oversee rigorous training sessions, focusing on fitness, skills, and teamwork. Foster a positive and motivated environment for player development.
• Match Preparation: Prepare the team for all fixtures, including friendlies, qualifiers, and major tournaments. Analyse opponents and devise game plans to secure victories.
• Media Relations: Handle media engagements with professionalism and diplomacy. Communicate effectively with the press and manage public expectations.
• Leadership and Motivation: Inspire and lead the team through highs and lows. Maintain team morale, particularly during challenging periods.
• Crisis Management: Address injuries, controversies, and other unforeseen issues with composure and effective decision-making.
• Performance Analysis: Continuously assess team and player performance. Utilise data analytics to inform tactical adjustments and improve outcomes.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Work closely with the FA, clubs, and other stakeholders to ensure alignment and support for the national team’s objectives.

Qualifications:

• Extensive experience in football management at a high level, preferably with international exposure.
• Proven track record of success in club or national team management.
• Strong understanding of modern football tactics and training methodologies.
• Exceptional leadership and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage high-pressure situations and media scrutiny.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
• UEFA Pro License or equivalent coaching qualification.

Desirable Attributes:

• Innovative thinking and a willingness to adopt new technologies and methods.
• Previous experience handling high-profile players and managing egos.
• Deep knowledge of English football culture and its unique challenges.
• Resilience and a sense of humour to navigate the intense public and media focus.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary and performance-based incentives.
• Opportunity to shape the future of English football and leave a lasting legacy.
• High-profile role with significant influence and responsibility.
• Support from the FA and access to world-class facilities.

Application Process:

Interested candidates should submit their CV, a cover letter detailing their vision for the England National Team, and a tactical dossier outlining their approach to international competitions. Applications should be sent to the Football Association by…

Join us in the quest to lead England to glory and etch your name in football history!

As England reflects on another tournament of what-ifs, the quest for the next leader begins. Whether Southgate stays or a new figure steps in, the goal remains to turn potential into silverware and heartbreak into triumph. If you think you’ve got what it takes, the role of a lifetime awaits.