Lee Carsley has been appointed as the interim manager of England’s senior national team, stepping up from his role as the U21s head coach. The 50-year-old will temporarily replace Gareth Southgate, who recently stepped down following England’s loss in the Euro 2024 final to Spain. Carsley will take charge of England’s upcoming UEFA Nations League matches against the Republic of Ireland and Finland in September, and his first squad selection is expected on August 29. The FA has indicated that Carsley could remain in the role throughout autumn while the search for a permanent head coach continues.
Carsley, who guided the England U21s to European Championship glory last year, brings a wealth of experience to the interim role. He had a distinguished playing career, earning 40 caps for the Republic of Ireland and making 282 Premier League appearances. After retiring in 2011, Carsley began his coaching journey, with caretaker stints at Coventry and Brentford before joining Manchester City’s academy. In 2020, he became part of the England youth setup, first with the U20s and then as U21s manager, where he achieved significant success.
The appointment has received praise from former England stars, including Wayne Rooney, who acknowledged Carsley’s achievements and expressed support for his interim role. Rooney also mentioned Pep Guardiola as his ideal long-term choice for the England job, citing the Manchester City manager’s winning mentality and style of play. Meanwhile, Burnley manager Scott Parker emphasized the importance of continuity within the England setup, noting the strong position Southgate has left the national team in. As Carsley steps into this pivotal role, the focus will be on maintaining momentum and securing promotion in the UEFA Nations League.
