UEFA President Names England as EURO 2024 Champions Amidst Criticism of Southgate.
UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin has condemned the criticism aimed at Gareth Southgate as “shameful” and has chosen England as the champions of EURO 2024.
Since the start of EURO 2024, former England football legend Gary Lineker, now a commentator for BBC Sports, has been one of the most vocal critics of the England national team and their coach, Gareth Southgate. Lineker’s harsh comments, particularly during the group stage match against Slovenia, included expletives and continuous questioning of Southgate’s tactical decisions.
Recently, UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin publicly defended Southgate against Lineker’s harsh words. “He has been mocked and insulted. I want to ask those who criticize Gareth Southgate, including the media, to apologize to him, although I do not expect much,” Ceferin stated.Ceferin also expressed his belief that England deserves to win EURO 2024: “The England team has performed excellently so far, and they deserve to enjoy this happiness and these memorable achievements.”
The 53-year-old Southgate responded emotionally in an interview after leading England to their second consecutive EURO final. “We all want to be loved, don’t we?” he said, addressing the criticism he has faced. “When you do something for your country, it is a source of pride. When you feel appreciated, it’s one thing, but when you are criticized, it is tough.”
“Therefore, celebrating reaching the EURO final for the second consecutive time is very, very special.”
Southgate also shared his understanding of the fans’ sentiments: “If I were not on the pitch but in the stands, I would celebrate like them. We connect on many levels, so I fully understand the feelings and emotions of the fans every time the team wins or loses. It is very special.”
England’s journey in EURO 2024 has been marked by moments of both challenge and triumph. While some have questioned Southgate’s strategies, his ability to guide the team to back-to-back finals demonstrates his resilience and tactical acumen. The support from UEFA’s president further solidifies Southgate’s position and the belief in England’s potential to clinch the title.
As the final approaches, the eyes of the football world are on England, with both fans and critics eagerly awaiting to see if Southgate’s men can rise to the occasion and secure the championship.
