Lionesses boss Sarina Wiegman won't enforce England ban despite 'concern' with serious issue

England manager Sarina Wiegman acknowledges the potential pitfalls of social media but insists she won't regulate her players' usage of the platforms.

Alessia Russo, the team's forward, has admitted she plans to steer clear of social media during the Women's European Championship in Switzerland to avoid the "trap" she experienced at the 2022 tournament, where the Lionesses clinched their first major trophy. However, some teammates have indicated they might not be as strict.

The success on home soil thrust both the England squad and Wiegman into the spotlight, bringing a mix of positive attention and challenges.

READ MORE: Tottenham pay tribute to Diogo Jota after Liverpool star's death

READ MORE: Luka Vuskovic 'wouldn't say no' to transfer as new Tottenham ace waits on Thomas Frank call

Speaking from the team's Zurich camp on Wednesday, Wiegman expressed her concerns: "Yes, there is a concern," acknowledging the desire of players to share their experiences while also recognising the uncontrollable nature of external reactions. She noted that while many responses are positive, there are always some that aren't.

Wiegman emphasised her approach to social media within the team: "With the team we make principles of how to use social media when and I would never say 'you're not allowed to use social media' because that's not how I work."

She believes in setting standards and sees coaching as a means to aid development and encourage players to take responsibility for their actions, guiding them from dependence to independence.

Wiegman also spoke about the learning process, saying: "And then, yes, sometimes you make a mistake and then you learn from a mistake. That's why I also think making mistakes are so important to learn from it."

Wiegman has the opportunity to claim her third consecutive European title as a manager – and her maiden triumph on foreign territory – having previously guided her homeland the Netherlands to victory on home turf in 2017.

The 55 year old believes she has adopted a more flexible approach to regulations since taking charge in England during September 2021, comparing the squad to a family unit where relationships differ and conflicts naturally occur.

The preparation for this tournament was far from smooth sailing. Two beloved figures from Wiegman's Euro 2022 championship-winning side, goalkeeper Mary Earps and attacking midfielder Fran Kirby, announced their international retirements just days before the June 5 squad reveal, whilst World Cup skipper Millie Bright stepped back from consideration to focus on her physical and mental wellbeing.

Following these developments, Wiegman, who had previously faced criticism mainly regarding tactical decisions or team selection, found herself under scrutiny regarding her management style.

Despite embracing British traditions like the Sunday roast, Wiegman acknowledged that adapting to the English tendency for indirect communication can prove challenging for someone used to straightforward Dutch communication.

"For me, I am actually very caring and that's often not very helpful in this job," she said.

"I want to take care of people, but I have a job where I have to make hard decisions. Then I, as a former player and maybe as a mum, I'm trying to not put myself in their shoes and think 'oh, they must feel horrible' because I have to shut that out for that moment."

Wiegman stressed the significance of clear communication with her players, especially as a major tournament approaches. She highlighted: "When I have conversations with players, I think it's really important to have clarity."

She further explained the need for adaptability, stating: "Especially now closer to the tournament that I give clarity that tomorrow things could change like [that]."

Wiegman also emphasised her approach to providing information, saying: "What I try to do is give them as much information as possible. The players call that direct but I think, do not confuse that with being blunt. I am not blunt – well, I hope not. I am trying to be honest and clear about things to give them context."