Sarina Wiegman's Departure Triggers FA Warning: Who'll Lead England Women's Team Next?

Football Association CEO Mark Bullingham has issued a warning to other countries considering approaching Sarina Wiegman, who successfully led the Lionesses to the final of the Women's World Cup. Wiegman's reputation as a consistent champion has grown significantly, having previously won the European championship with the Netherlands in 2017 and achieving the same feat with England last summer.

England has reached their first-ever Women's World Cup final, with their coach guiding them to this historic milestone. This achievement makes her the only manager to accomplish this feat with two different nations, as she had previously led her home country to the same stage four years ago. Meanwhile, Vlatko Andonovski has recently resigned as the coach of the United States after their disappointing performance in the World Cup, which saw them being eliminated in the round of 16.

Jill Ellis, who led the victorious US campaigns in 2015 and 2019, stated in Sydney on Thursday that when looking for a successor, it is important to consider candidates from diverse backgrounds. However, she emphasized that the gender of the new coach should not be the determining factor.

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Wiegman has guided England to the World Cup final

When asked about the FA's response to a potential approach from the United States for the three-time FIFA Best award winner, Bullingham responded without hesitation: "Absolutely, without a doubt. Money is not the determining factor here. We are extremely pleased with her and believe she is content.

"We have heard various rumors, but it's undeniable that she possesses exceptional talent. On our end, she has a contract that extends until 2025. We believe she is excelling in her role, and we fully back her. Hopefully, she shares the same sentiment."

Bullingham mentioned that the FA will wait until Wiegman has a post-tournament holiday, which she truly deserves, before discussing the possibility of extending her tenure. Although Bullingham believes Wiegman is qualified for any position in football, he acknowledged that it may take a while before the salary of an England women's manager matches that of their male counterpart.

He stated that in his opinion, it is necessary to eventually reach a point where the disparity in the market and income can be addressed. He also mentioned that within the market she operates, Sarina is well-paid. However, he acknowledged that there is a difference when comparing it to the men's game, as they belong to different markets. He expressed his desire for the merging of these markets in the future, although it has not yet been achieved.

Andonovski, the former coach of the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL), took charge in 2019 following the US's back-to-back world titles. However, they have struggled to maintain their momentum. Under his guidance, the team secured a bronze medal at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics. Unfortunately, injuries plagued the predominantly inexperienced US squad at this year's World Cup in New Zealand and Australia, leading to a devastating penalty shootout loss to Sweden in the knockout stage, with a score of 5-4.

"I consider it a privilege to have coached the exceptionally skilled and dedicated individuals of the USWNT over the past four years," stated Andonovski, who is 46 years old.

Although the result at this year's World Cup may have been disappointing, I take great pride in the advancements this team has achieved, the mutual encouragement they have demonstrated, and the motivation they have instilled in players across the globe.