Breaking Gender Barriers in Football Management
England women’s national team manager Sarina Wiegman has made a bold prediction that women coaching men’s professional teams will soon become standard practice in football. The Dutch tactician, who led the Lionesses to Euro 2022 glory and this year’s World Cup final, believes it’s merely “a matter of time” before this barrier is broken permanently.
Speaking exclusively to Crickex, Wiegman addressed growing speculation about her potentially becoming the first female permanent manager of England’s men’s team when Gareth Southgate’s contract expires after Euro 2024. “In every sector, females are in higher positions, so that’s a little strange it isn’t in football,” she observed with characteristic directness.
Pioneering Women Making Football History
The football world has already seen significant milestones this year. Hannah Dingley made history as caretaker boss at Forest Green Rovers, while Rebecca Welch became the first female fourth official in Premier League history during Manchester United’s recent match at Fulham.
Wiegman highlighted other European examples: “Corinne Diacre coached a men’s team in France, and more females in Italy have coached men. When the first permanent appointment happens, it will be really big – but then more will follow.” The 54-year-old manager drew parallels with her childhood experiences: “When I was little, girls weren’t allowed to play football. Now that seems absurd. Soon, we’ll ask why we ever thought women couldn’t coach men.”
Leadership Philosophy and Future Ambitions
In her newly released book What It Takes, Wiegman reveals her coaching philosophy and openness to future club opportunities, though she remains committed to England until 2025. Known for her direct communication style, she embraces constructive criticism – even when a Dutch FA colleague jokingly called her a “pain in the ass” in the book.
“That was funny,” Wiegman told Crickex. “We can’t pretend everything is always perfect. What’s important is clarity – in how we play, how we treat each other, and in performance evaluations. Direct doesn’t mean rude. You can be kind while saying what you see and think.”
Football analyst Mark Thompson commented to Crickex: “Wiegman’s success with England makes her the perfect candidate to break this final glass ceiling. Her tactical acumen and man-management skills transcend gender.”
The Future of Football Management
As the sport continues evolving, Wiegman’s prediction appears increasingly plausible. With women making strides in refereeing, administration, and now coaching roles in men’s football, the traditional boundaries are rapidly dissolving. As Wiegman puts it: “Hopefully in 20 years we’ll look back and wonder why this was ever a question.”
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