England came so close once again to international glory this summer, but the Three Lions' defeat to Spain in the Euro 2024 final has left the national team heartbroken after falling at the final hurdle for the second time in succession.
The result has brought about the end of Gareth Southgate's tenure as England boss, with the ex-manager stepping down to kickstart the FA's first managerial search since 2016 when Southgate replaced Sam Allardyce in the role.
So who could replace Southgate? With few obvious options to choose from, here’s a look at who is being backed to succeed the 53-year-old and take England into the 2026 World Cup…
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ByMatt DawsonJun 3, 2024 9 Michael Carrick Middlesbrough
A former England midfielder with experience at international tournaments, there are few on this list with closer ties to the England team than Michael Carrick. His own venture into management sees him at Middlesbrough, where he aims to secure Premier League promotion next term – unless the FA was to pick up the phone.
Despite his name being in the running, this job surely comes far too soon among a crowded field of more suitable candidates. International management very much seems to be a specialist role, and plucking a young manager from the second tier in the hope of succeeding at the next World Cup seems too improbable.
Age
42
Active since
2021
Former teams
Man Utd (caretaker)
No. of trophies
0
Major honours
None
10 Steven Gerrard Al-Ettifaq
Steven Gerrard is no doubt revered by many in the game, though his standing in managerial circles is a little baffling at present.
His tenure at Rangers was satisfactory to say the least, as he ended their long wait for a Scottish Premiership title and denied rivals Celtic a tenth in a row in the process.
However, his shortcomings in Europe at Ibrox, as well as during subsequent spells at Aston Villa and Saudi Pro League outfit Al-Ettifaq, are hardly worthy of him becoming the next Three Lions boss. Then again, they did give Big Sam the job…
Age
44
Active since
2018
Former teams
Rangers, Aston Villa
No. of trophies
1
Major honours
Scottish Premiership (2021)