This article is part of the Guardian’s World Cup 2022 Experts’ Network, a cooperation between some of the best media organisations from the 32 countries who qualified. theguardian.com is running previews from two countries each day in the run-up to the tournament kicking off on 20 November.
The plan
It is hard not to conclude that it is now or never for Gareth Southgate’s England. They have come agonisingly close under the 52-year-old, reaching the semi-finals of the last World Cup and losing to Italy on penalties in the Euro 2020 final, and if those near misses are viewed through an optimistic lens there is an argument that glory is attainable if the pieces all fall in the right place.
After all, while recent form has been unconvincing, this remains a highly talented group. The creative options are enviable and Declan Rice and Jude Bellingham are two of the finest young midfielders around. Harry Kane is one of the best strikers in the world.
Still, though, the sense persists that a cycle is coming to an end. Problems have mounted this year – the barren Nations League run, Harry Maguire’s struggles, injuries to Reece James and Kyle Walker a potential headache on the right side of the defence – and it could well be time for Southgate to depart, even if his deal runs until the end of 2024. “I know I will be judged on what happens at that World Cup,” the head coach says. “I am not arrogant enough to think that my contract is going to protect me.”
Southgate accepts the defining moment is approaching. England are under pressure to attack. There will be fury if they limp out in timid fashion.
But do not write off this squad yet. There were signs of life during the recent 3-3 draw with Germany and a group containing Iran, Wales and the USA should be negotiated with relative ease. In Southgate’s view some of the panic is overblown. He has proven that he is tournament savvy and, given a fair wind, England have the potential to go all the way.
Read More: World Cup 2022 team guides part 5: England | England