Gareth Southgate, manager of England, said he was ready for criticism after his team lost to Italy 1-0 in the UEFA Nations League game on Friday and, as a result were relegated from the top tier.
The Nations League, since it was created in 2018, has not been the most favorable event of both national teams and star players. That's why there were often a lot of unexpected results in its games, like England's recent underperformances as well as Germany's loss to Hungary this week.
England, which were the runner-up in the UEFA European Championships in 2021, understandably have a high aim for the coming FIFA World Cup in Qatar from November 20 to December 18. They certainly don't want any unfortunate surprise like injuries when they are playing in the Nations League games.
Players of England pose for a group photo before the UEFA Nations League game against Italy at San Siro in Milan, Italy, September 23, 2022. /CFP
Gareth Southgate, manager of England, looks on during the UEFA Nations League game against Italy at San Siro in Milan, Italy, September 23, 2022. /CFP
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