England national football team transforms culture

England national football team recently won 4-2 against Croatia on 2026-06-17.

What happened?

The team's culture transformation began with Owen Eastwood, a performance coach. He interviewed dozens of people, including current players and historic figures like Jimmy Armfield and Wayne Rooney. Eastwood found a total absence of whakapapa, a feeling of detachment from roots and meaning.

Why it matters for England national football team

Eastwood's book Belonging: The Ancient Code Of Togetherness recounts his interview with Michael Owen. Owen suggested the players' perception of England identity was shaped by external forces, like media and crowds. The team's setup seemed incompatible with a genuine sense of identity.

What comes next?

England national football team will face Ghana at home on 2026-06-23. The team's transformation will be put to the test in the upcoming match. With a new sense of culture and identity, England national football team is ready to take on the challenge.