Explained: Why England are struggling to win major tournaments

The early 2000s were supposed to be England's era. With a squad boasting names like Beckham, Gerrard, Lampard, Rooney, and Ferdinand, the "Golden Generation" promised unprecedented success. However, this potential never materialized.

One key factor was the team's fractured dynamic. As Rio Ferdinand admitted, a club rivalry between the Manchester United, Liverpool and Chelsea players created a sense of division rather than unity within the squad. The players were more concerned with avoiding giving their rivals a competitive edge than building a cohesive national team.

The 2006 World Cup in Germany became a symbol of this era's failure. The antics of the WAGs (wives and girlfriends) dominated the headlines, overshadowing the team's performances on the pitch. From lavish shopping sprees to alleged drug use, their behavior was seen as a distraction that contributed to the team's downfall.

Tactical issues also plagued the Golden Generation. Manager Sven-Göran Eriksson struggled to find the right system to accommodate all his star players. The rigid 4-4-2 formation stifled creativity and failed to maximize the team's attacking potential. Eriksson was also criticized for questionable decisions, such as taking Theo Walcott and leaving Jermaine Defoe. Ultimately, England crashed out of the tournament against Portugal in a penalty shootout, and in this match Rooney received a red card for stamping Ricardo Carvalho. This loss cemented the Golden Generation's reputation as a group of talented individuals unable to come together as a successful team.

Fast forward to 2016, and Gareth Southgate took the helm. After the Iceland debacle at Euro 2016, England needed a steady hand. Southgate initially delivered, leading the team to a surprising semi-final appearance at the 2018 World Cup and then to the final of Euro 2020.

While Southgate's achievements cannot be dismissed, he has increasingly faced criticism for his pragmatic and often defensive tactical approach. Many fans and pundits argue that he fails to fully exploit the attacking riches at his disposal. He prioritises stability and risk aversion over unleashing the full potential of players like Harry Kane, Bukayo Saka, Phil Foden, and Jude Bellingham.

After failing to win the Euros final against Italy on penalties, Southgate's critics grew louder. He's been accused of being too cautious and lacking the tactical flexibility to adapt to different opponents or in-game situations. The England squad had a tough time at the Euro's 2024 and the fans voiced their displeasure at Southgate's tactics. The inability to translate individual brilliance into collective success has become a defining feature of Southgate's era.

The English media plays a significant role in shaping the narrative around the national team. While passionate support is vital, the relentless scrutiny and often unrealistic expectations can create a pressure cooker environment for players and managers alike. The media can build teams up to be unbeatable, only to tear them down at the first sign of failure. This constant pressure can weigh heavily on players, particularly in high-stakes tournaments. The negative coverage during the 2006 World Cup with the WAGs is one example of the extreme media scrutiny on the England team. 

The heightened expectations also come from the fact that the Premier League has developed into the best and biggest league in the world with the largest pool of talent. Fans feel that with a wealth of English talent, that a major trophy should be won.

So, what needs to change for England to finally break the trophy curse? Here are some potential paths forward.

Managerial Evolution

Whether it's new boss Thomas Tuchel or any other manager in the future, England needs someone who can unlock the team's full attacking potential and create a cohesive, confident unit.

Player Mentality

Cultivating a winning mentality and fostering a stronger sense of camaraderie within the squad is crucial. Players need to believe in each other and play with a fearless, attacking mindset.

Media Management

The media needs to adopt a more balanced approach, providing constructive criticism while acknowledging the challenges and pressures faced by the team.

Realistic Expectations

While ambition is important, fans need to be realistic about the level of competition and the inherent unpredictability of football.

Ultimately, breaking England's trophy curse will require a combination of tactical innovation, mental fortitude, and a more supportive environment. The talent is there, but whether the Three Lions can finally find the right formula for success remains to be seen.