Sir Gareth Southgate argues that educational approaches need to account for fundamental differences between boys and girls to address the growing crisis facing young men. The former England manager, speaking on BBC Radio 4, said boys struggle with isolation, mental health, and identity issues that require targeted intervention.

His new BBC documentary examines how young men who performed poorly in school face cascading problems including unemployment. Southgate visited Middlesbrough to meet three young men affected by joblessness, including 20-year-old Taylor who turned to alcohol after months of unsuccessful job hunting. Official figures show over one million young people are Neet - the highest level in more than 12 years.

The number of men aged 16-24 classified as Neet has risen by 40% since the pandemic, compared to just 7% for women. Southgate criticised online influencers who manipulate vulnerable young men into believing success equals money or dominance. He praised initiatives empowering girls while emphasizing that helping boys isn't a zero-sum game.

His experience mentoring players through England's recent World Cup campaigns informs this perspective. Southgate called for a national mentoring movement to provide hope and guidance. The documentary "Gareth Southgate: Changing the Game for Young Men" airs on BBC One at 21:00 BST Monday.