England's Lionesses are gearing up for the Women's European Championship in Switzerland, and manager Sarina Wiegman is addressing the ever-present issue of social media usage among her players. While acknowledging the potential pitfalls and expressing "concern" about the impact of online platforms, Wiegman has stated that she will not be policing the England squad's social media activity.

Wiegman's stance comes as forward Alessia Russo revealed her decision to avoid social media during the tournament to avoid falling into the "scrolling trap" she experienced during the 2022 Euros. However, other players have indicated they may not be as strict with their social media habits. The Lionesses' triumphant victory at the 2022 tournament catapulted the players and Wiegman into the public eye, bringing both positive attention and increased scrutiny.

Speaking from the team's Zurich base, Wiegman conceded that social media presents a concern. She recognizes the players' desire to share their experiences, particularly given the prevalence of social media among this generation. However, she also acknowledges the lack of control over how the outside world responds, noting that while many reactions are positive, some can be negative.

Despite these concerns, Wiegman is not planning to implement a blanket ban or strict regulations on social media usage. Instead, she emphasizes the importance of setting standards and fostering a sense of responsibility among the players. Wiegman believes that coaching involves helping players develop, encouraging them to move from dependence to independence, and empowering them to make their own decisions while understanding the potential consequences.

Wiegman's approach reflects her broader coaching philosophy, which prioritizes player development and autonomy. She believes that making mistakes is a crucial part of the learning process. By allowing players to make their own choices regarding social media, even if those choices sometimes lead to missteps, Wiegman hopes to cultivate a sense of accountability and promote growth.

This approach aligns with Wiegman's relaxed and trust-based leadership style. She avoids excessive rules and restrictions, trusting her players to use their common sense and make responsible decisions. This environment of trust and autonomy can empower players to take ownership of their actions and perform at their best.

Wiegman's emphasis on individual responsibility extends beyond social media. She trusts her players to manage their time and make choices that support their well-being and performance. This holistic approach to coaching recognizes that players are individuals with unique needs and preferences, and that fostering a supportive and empowering environment is essential for success.

While Wiegman trusts her players to make sound decisions regarding social media, the potential for online abuse remains a concern. In the past, England players like Georgia Stanway have been subjected to abusive messages on social media, highlighting the dark side of these platforms. Wiegman has previously emphasized the importance of discussing social media with her players and raising awareness of the potential risks.