Contents
History has a way of repeating itself, and for Gareth Southgate, the England manager, it comes full circle as he faces a familiar adversary in Jesus Navas. The Spanish right-back, who was instrumental in ending Southgate’s playing career 18 years ago, is now part of the squad that could determine Southgate’s future as England’s manager. The stakes are high as Spain and England clash in the Euro 2024 final, a momentous event that could see England end a 58-year trophy drought.
From Eindhoven to Berlin: A Journey Through Time
In a nostalgic reflection, we recall the UEFA Cup final of 2006 where Navas’ Sevilla dealt a heavy blow to Middlesbrough, marking the end of Southgate’s time on the pitch. Now, as the two meet again, this time in Berlin, the focus shifts to Southgate’s tenure as England’s manager, with the FA hoping he remains beyond the tournament despite speculation about his future.
Southgate’s Sole Focus: Ending England’s Long Wait
Despite the swirling rumours about his managerial future, Southgate remains resolute, his eyes firmly set on the prize. “Emotionally, it would be impossible for me to make a logical decision at the moment on any of that because my sole focus for two years has been winning this tournament,” he asserts. With a steely determination to lead his team to victory, Southgate is driven by the desire to uplift English football’s global standing and finally bring home a major trophy.
Wilshere Weighs In: It’s All About Results
Former England midfielder Jack Wilshere offers his take, emphasizing that while aesthetics in play are desirable, results are what matter in the end. He acknowledges the team’s growth throughout the tournament and the unshaken composure of Southgate and his coaching staff. With the final showdown against Spain looming, Wilshere believes England must deliver their best performance yet to secure the coveted European title.
At 38, Navas approaches his final tournament appearance, unlikely to start in the final despite his crucial role against France’s Kylian Mbappe in the semi-finals. Meanwhile, Southgate isn’t the only one seeking redemption; his assistant, Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink, also yearns to settle scores from the past Sevilla defeat. As both teams prepare for battle, England looks back on a mixed historical record against Spain, with 14 wins, 3 draws, and 10 losses, hoping to tip the scales further in their favor.
