Sarina Wiegman leads England into fifth major final

Sarina Wiegman manages England in her fifth major tournament final, showcasing her bold approach.

Sarina Wiegman's management style divides opinions in women's football

Sarina Wiegman, the manager of the England women's football team, has demonstrated a distinct management style that is both admired and criticized. Wiegman has made tough decisions, like dropping former captain Steph Houghton and informing goalkeeper Mary Earps that she would not be the team's number one for Euro 2025. Her straightforward communication is valued by some players, though not all share the same sentiment. Georgia Stanway highlighted Wiegman's honesty, saying players must take feedback seriously. Meanwhile, Fran Kirby felt the impact of Wiegman's directness as she announced her international retirement following her exclusion from Euro 2025. In contrast, Houghton has expressed disappointment over how Wiegman communicated her exclusion from the World Cup squad, suggesting it lacked the personal touch she expected after her long career.

Wiegman's unique approach exemplifies a blend of emotional intelligence and decisiveness that could shape the future of women's football management. While some players thrive under her direct feedback, others feel the weight of her ruthless decisions. This dichotomy reflects broader trends in sports management, where a balance between empathy and authority is crucial. Wiegman’s methods challenge traditional coaching norms, prompting debates about communication styles and their impact on player morale. As women's football continues to gain visibility, the scrutiny of such management styles may influence the development of future leaders in the sport.

Highlights

As Wiegman leads England, her methods will likely spark discussions about coaching in sports.