Sarina Wiegman, the head coach of the England women’s national football team, will remain in her role until at least 2027, even if her squad faces an early exit from the upcoming UEFA Women’s Euro tournament. The Football Association (FA) was adamant that Wiegman’s challenging contract is safe and will run out after the 2023 World Cup—in two years’ time. They have yet to begin negotiations over where she will go after that.
Meanwhile, England are preparing for a daunting group stage at the Euros. Like the other Men’s League 1 teams, they will take on very strong competition in France, the Netherlands, and Wales. Even under the pressure cooker of the tournament, Wiegman’s job security isn’t in doubt, with the FA insistent it has faith in the Dutchwoman’s longterm leadership.
Wiegman’s assistant, Arjan Veurink, has taken up the position of head coach for the Netherlands after the Euros. As Wiegman brings in Dutch coaches Janneke Bijl and Arvind Smit to assist her, that will begin to change. This update allows some very interesting new talent to the team! Anja van Ginhoven from the Netherlands is expected to depart when Wiegman eventually leaves.
FA’s Confidence in Wiegman
Mark Bullingham, the FA’s Chief Executive, emphasized the organization’s satisfaction with Wiegman’s ongoing tenure.
“We’re delighted Sarina’s in place until 2027,” – Mark Bullingham
Bullingham added that the FA was not looking at alternatives to her replacement during the ongoing process.
“We’re delighted we’ve got Sarina until 2027 and we’ve got plenty of time to plan for the future after that, whether she carries on or whether we have to make a new appointment after that,” – Mark Bullingham
This promise holds even with Wiegman’s squad being drawn into a death group at the Euros. There is unparalleled pressure and scrutiny that comes from competing against top-tier nations. Throughout all of this, the FA has staunchly supported their coach through thick and thin.
Future Stadium Plans and World Cup Bids
England’s focus, like Wales’, is on future tournaments. Enthusiastic conversations about possible stadium locations for the 2035 Women’s World Cup are already underway. So far, the FA has at least five different stadiums circled as potential draws to host group stage matches.
Old Trafford, home of Manchester United, is one such settled arena that would suit as a draw venue. Windsor Park is similarly in the spotlight, undergoing efforts to raise its capacity to 15,000 to fulfill World Cup requirements.
Along with Old Trafford and Windsor Park, we’re planning to scout venues such as St James’ Park and Birmingham’s stadiums. Facilities in Wrexham are being considered.
“The question for Windsor Park is how we expand it slightly because the minimum number you have to get per World Cup bid is 20,000.” – Mark Bullingham
Over time, the FA has gotten better at responding when its coaching staff turns over. Recent moves, including the recent placement of Thomas Tuchel onto the men’s squad, seem to suggest this flexibility.
“They’re just off that but we think it’s perfectly possible to add those extra seats and we fully expect Northern Ireland and Windsor Park to be part of the World Cup.” – Mark Bullingham
As England prepares for the Euros amidst a backdrop of significant challenges and expectations, Wiegman’s leadership will be crucial in steering the team through this pivotal moment in women’s football.
“You could look at what could potentially happen at St James’ Park, you could look at what could happen at Birmingham, you could look at what could happen at Wrexham,” – Mark Bullingham
Navigating Change and Future Challenges
Although the road will be steep for England to secure victory in this tournament, their confidence in Wiegman will be unshakeable. In our conversations, it’s clear that the organization is equally committed to supporting her vision and plans around achieving short-term wins while building long-term capacity.
As England prepares for the Euros amidst a backdrop of significant challenges and expectations, Wiegman’s leadership will be crucial in steering the team through this pivotal moment in women’s football.
While England faces a tough path ahead in the tournament, their faith in Wiegman remains strong. The organization appears committed to supporting her vision and plans for both immediate and long-term goals.
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