Wales failed to qualify for Euro 2024, and the recent friendlies left a bad impression. Rob Page couldn't withstand the pressure.
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The manager Rob Page has been dismissed from the Welsh national football team after three and a half years in the role, with a contract that was set to run until 2026, the federation (FAW) announced this Friday.
Page, 49, who replaced Ryan Giggs, led Wales to their first World Cup in Qatar in 2022, after reaching the round of 16 at Euro 2020. His tenure was marked by significant achievements, including the historic World Cup qualification which was a landmark moment for Welsh football.
However, Wales failed to qualify for Euro 2024, falling in the penalty shootout against Poland in the play-off for the final stage. This setback was a significant blow for the team, which had hoped to build on their recent successes and continue their upward trajectory in European football.
The poor performance in recent friendlies against Gibraltar (0-0), at Estádio Algarve, and Slovakia (a 4-0 defeat in Trnava) further compounded the pressure on Page. These results not only highlighted issues within the squad but also raised questions about the team's preparedness and tactical approach under his leadership.
In total, the Welshman Rob Page, who had a contract until 2026 but is leaving before the start of the Nations League in September, managed Wales in 45 games, achieving 15 wins, 15 losses, and 15 draws. This record reflects a tenure of mixed fortunes, with notable highs such as the World Cup qualification, but also significant lows including the recent failure to qualify for Euro 2024.
The Football Association of Wales (FAW) will now search for a new coach before the start of the qualification phase for the 2026 World Cup, which will take place in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. The new manager will be tasked with revitalizing the team, addressing the issues that have emerged in recent months, and guiding Wales through what will be a challenging and competitive qualification campaign.
As the FAW embarks on this search, they will be looking for a candidate who can bring fresh ideas and stability to the squad. The hope is to find a leader who can harness the potential within the team, build on the foundations laid by Page, and lead Wales to success on the international stage. The upcoming months will be crucial for Welsh football as they seek to rebound from recent disappointments and set their sights on future achievements.
