Southgate says the upcoming Euro 2024 final against Spain means everything, but he’s learned to handle the pressure

As England heads into the Euro 2024 final against Spain, Gareth Southgate has confessed that he desires victory so intensely on Sunday that “it hurts.” The stakes are high, with a chance to join Sir Alf Ramsey’s legendary 1966 World Cup squad in the annals of football history, should England emerge victorious.

This marks England’s third-ever major final, and Southgate, whose team came agonisingly close to continental glory three years ago, is determined to surpass the heartache of a penalty shootout loss and make history at the Olympiastadion in Berlin.

When asked if the outcome of Sunday’s match would define his tenure as manager, Southgate replied, “It will, but only in the eyes of others.” He acknowledged that, while winning would change how he’s viewed, the experience gained through age and reflection has helped him feel comfortable with who he is and his management style. “I want to win so much on Sunday, but I can handle whatever comes next,” he said, with a sense of calm resolve. “I know it won’t change what my dog thinks when I walk back through the door.”

Southgate’s relationship with high-pressure situations is rooted in personal experience. As a player, he faced the agony of missing a penalty in Euro 96, a traumatic moment that he has since come to terms with. “As a player, those failures hit differently,” Southgate said, reflecting on his 102nd match as England’s manager. “But as a coach, I now understand the bigger picture and how to lead with clarity and purpose.”

Southgate’s approach to his role is informed by a level of self-awareness, allowing him to critically assess his performance and the progress made. “Had we been eliminated earlier in this tournament, I would still know I managed better than I did in Russia during the 2018 World Cup,” he explained, even if public opinion might not reflect that.

Despite his calm exterior, Southgate is passionate about seeing England succeed. He credits his ability to stay composed to his father, Clive, who instilled in him a steady demeanour that has carried over into his professional life. However, Southgate does not deny his excitement, revealing that he’s capable of celebrating with the same enthusiasm as the fans, as seen during the semi-final win against the Netherlands.

“I’m an England fan in the dugout,” he affirmed. “I have more responsibility now, but I’m still as desperate for England to win as I was as a player.”

Southgate’s focus remains on delivering a historic victory for England, especially given the discontent that has been present among supporters throughout the tournament. Despite some early criticism, including boos from the crowd after draws with Denmark and Slovenia, Southgate remains resolute, even in the face of hostility, such as beer cups being thrown at him after the Slovenia match.

“There was a danger things could unravel, but I was determined to confront it,” he said, adding that he took it upon himself to protect the players from the negativity. “I’m the lightning conductor in moments like this,” he explained, stressing the importance of creating the right environment for the players to thrive. “The job is to help them perform at their best, and I’ll take the heat for that.”

Southgate now hopes that, with victory, he can help provide a sense of temporary relief and happiness to a nation that has endured frustration. “I’m desperate to bring some happiness to an angry country,” he said, as England prepare to make their mark in football history on Sunday.