Gareth Southgate sets record straight with Manchester United link whispers

Gareth Southgate sets record straight with Manchester United link whispers

Eric Munene 21:32 - 10.10.2024

Gareth Southgate has revealed that he does not intend to manage any club for the next year

Gareth Southgate, the former England manager, has firmly dispelled rumours linking him to the Manchester United managerial position, emphasizing that he has no plans to return to coaching within the next year.

Following his resignation after the Euro 2024 final defeat to Spain, speculation about Southgate's future has been rampant, particularly in light of Manchester United's troubled start to the season.

Speaking at the European Club Association event, Southgate clarified his intentions regarding future coaching roles.

“I won’t coach in the next year, for sure. I’m certain of that. I need to give myself time to make good decisions,” he stated.

This statement effectively rules him out as a potential candidate to replace Erik Ten Hag, whose position has come under scrutiny amid United's disappointing performance, with only three wins from their first eleven games across all competitions.

Reports indicate that INEOS, the consortium behind Manchester United, has a keen interest in Southgate, but he has reiterated the importance of taking a break after his extensive tenure with the national team.

“When you come out of a really big role, you need to give your body time, you need to give your mind time,” he added, highlighting the need for personal recovery before diving back into the pressures of club management.

Meanwhile, discussions regarding Ten Hag’s future continue, with recent meetings suggesting that he may be afforded more time to rectify the team's trajectory.

Despite the noise surrounding the Manchester United job, Southgate's commitment to a well-deserved hiatus is clear, as he prioritizes thoughtful decision-making over immediate returns to the dugout.

This leaves space for Thomas Tuchel who is now the next best candidate to become Manchester United's new boss.