As they look for a replacement for Gareth Southgate, the Football Association has named Lee Carsley as England’s interim head coach. Carsley was considered a possible short-term replacement for Southgate following England’s defeat by Spain in the Euro 2024 final last month. Carsley guided England to victory in the European Under-21 Championship last year. While Mauricio Pochettino, Eddie Howe, and Graham Potter of Newcastle are among the managers connected to the permanent position, Southgate’s replacement will not be named in a hurry.
Carsley will lead the Nations League matches against Finland and the Republic of Ireland next month as an interim coach, the FA has revealed. This agreement will remain in place until the Football Association (FA) has finished hiring a new permanent head coach.
In mid-October and mid-November, England will play in the Nations League. The 2026 World Cup qualifiers are expected to start in March.
Carsley, a former midfielder for the Republic of Ireland, acknowledged his honor of taking the interim captaincy of the England squad. Speaking about his familiarity with the players and the international football cycle, he said it makes sense for him to lead the team while the FA searches for a new manager. To secure promotion to the UEFA Nations League, his key priority is to maintain continuity.
Ultimately defeating Spain in the final, Carsley, fifty, guided his team to victory in all six Under-21 Euro matches without giving up a goal. Since July 2021, he has been in charge of the Under-21 team. He has also coached other FA youth teams. He might be given permanent consideration for the senior position if the outcomes are favorable.
“Many of our senior players are familiar with Lee from his previous work at the international and club levels,” said FA Chief Executive Mark Bullingham. He expressed confidence in Lee’s performance for the forthcoming UEFA Nations League matches and lauded him as an amazing coach. Bullingham also recognized Lee’s contribution as a trustworthy stand-in manager as the FA looks for a long-term replacement.”
The FA board has endorsed Bullingham’s selection as manager, while Jürgen Klopp has ruled himself out. Bullingham obtained their support before initiating the recruitment process.
Ben Futcher will lead the Under-21 team in their next qualifiers in Carsley’s absence.
