A significant critique of Gareth Southgate’s time in charge was his failure to fully utilize the attacking talent available to him. This topic sparked intense discussion during England’s journey to Euro 2024, particularly regarding Phil Foden’s ideal role, Cole Palmer’s limited appearances off the bench, and Anthony Gordon’s minimal involvement.
After the England U21 team’s triumph at the European Championship last summer, social media was flooded with highlight reels showcasing the squad’s captivating style of play, referred to as ‘Cars-ball’.
Following Southgate’s resignation, those creative montages gained renewed attention, with Birmingham-born Carsley emerging as a frontrunner for the managerial position.
In stark contrast to his former role as a central midfielder known for disruptive play, Carsley promotes a philosophy of possession and self-expression among his players.
During the tournament in Georgia, his squad featured several technically skilled players, including Harvey Elliott and Curtis Jones from Liverpool, as well as Nottingham Forest’s Morgan Gibbs-White.
He utilized Max Aarons, a right-footed left-back from Bournemouth; James Garner, a central midfielder from Everton, playing as a right-back; and Jones, typically a number 10, positioned as one of the double pivots in midfield.
Alongside Jones was Angel Gomes, now with Lille, who had adapted from a number 10 role to a deeper midfield position. Carsley opted against placing a conventional central midfielder beside him.
The team’s build-up play frequently initiated with Burnley goalkeeper James Trafford distributing the ball, encouraging players to take risks and trust their judgement.
In one instance, Chelsea defender Levi Colwill held the ball for over 30 seconds, waiting for pressure from the opposing team to create space to launch an attack, a tactic they practiced in training.
Whenever England plays, discussions arise about how to integrate their top talents. Observing how Carsley orchestrated his U21 team, one wonders if he could harmoniously blend players like Trent Alexander-Arnold, Kyle Walker, and Reece James—England’s array of outstanding right-backs—with talents such as Palmer, Bukayo Saka, Jack Grealish, Foden, and Jude Bellingham in one cohesive unit.
On the path to the championship in Georgia, Carsley positioned Palmer as a number eight in central midfield while primarily utilizing Newcastle winger Anthony Gordon—who was named player of the tournament—as his main striker.
Gordon praised Carsley as the “best man-manager” he’s ever had, while Liverpool’s Harvey Elliott described Carsley as an “unbelievable manager” during the club’s pre-season tour this summer.
Naturally, Carsley has yet to work with players like John Stones, Declan Rice, and captain Harry Kane. However, since the U21s’ victory in Georgia, many of these players have transitioned into the senior team.
