Criticized for many weeks for
England’s boring gameGareth Southgate is approaching this final as a culmination. The Three Lions manager has the chance to silence all his critics if he brings a trophy back to the United Kingdom, after more than half a century of waiting.
But once again, his choices will be scrutinized. They could even be decisive. Because if England were designated as the number 1 seed of the tournament before the curtain rises, it is Spain who approach this final as the favorite in the eyes of the bookmakers. Southgate must therefore establish a plan to stop his opponent’s well-oiled game.
What animation for England?
Which starting eleven? The choice of formation will be crucial. After starting the Euro with a 4-man defence, England could still rely on the 3-man defence used against the Netherlands in the semi-final (2-1 after extra time). In front of Pickford, Walker, Stones and Guéhi would thus be aligned, while Trippier would have a left piston role, in a position where Shaw is also a candidate.
In the choice of men, always, Mainoo also knew how to impose himself to make up for the disappointing first performances of Alexander-Arnold. The young prodigy of Manchester United is still expected alongside Rice. For the rest, all the attacking stars will be present, from Saka to Kane, via Bellingham and Foden.
The expected line-up for England : Pickford – Walker, Stones, Guéhi – Saka, Mainoo, Rice, Trippier – Bellingham, Foden – Kane.
