The Diplomat
People, composure and the difficult conversation held well.
Gareth Southgate is the England Football Manager known for his thoughtful approach to leadership and his ability to connect with players and fans alike. This interview reveals his commitment to inclusivity and the cultural significance of football, showcasing how he navigates complex social issues while fostering a sense of unity and pride.
“Whole country are on a tidal wave of hope and enjoyment. At that moment, I'm thinking, you know, I've now been responsible for this whole thing finishing. And how am I ever going to get over this? So I've got the media camped on my doorstep. It took me three days to realize I've got to get out of the country here.”
“In a leadership position, people will talk about why didn't we do this? Why didn't we change that? But actually, I believe one of the reasons we got as far as we did was because we stuck to my beliefs and I wasn't swayed by populist opinions. And I know the details we're dealing with. I've got all the information.”
“The moment itself, the whole country are on a tidal wave of hope and enjoyment. I mean, maybe not you, Alistair. I forgot the group match that we beat Scotland, but at that moment. Going to bed that night. I'm thinking, you know, I've now been responsible for this whole thing finishing. And how am I ever going to get over this?”
“Correct. But a good example would be we want change. So you want to change football manager at your club. But all of the issues are still there at the club. You see that in government, people would push for a change of government tomorrow, but actually all the fundamental issues are still there.”
The Rest Is Politics: Leading — 162. Gareth Southgate: Patriotism, Leadership, and How To Inspire Young Men
LISTEN AT THE SOURCE ↗THE RECORD IS CHECKABLE