Gareth Southgate has dismissed speculation linking him to the Manchester United job, insisting he’s content away from football and focused on his work in youth leadership and personal development.
The former England manager, who stepped down following Euro 2024, has been repeatedly linked with a return to management — most notably at Old Trafford — but says he has no plans to re-enter club football anytime soon.
SOUTHGATE ADDRESSES MAN UNITED LINKS
Since leaving his national team post, Southgate’s name has continued to surface in connection with several high-profile roles. Persistent reports tied him to United earlier this season, particularly when Ruben Amorim faced mounting pressure. However, the Portuguese coach has since steadied the team’s form, easing speculation about Southgate’s potential arrival.
In recent interviews promoting his new book, Dear England: Lessons in Leadership, Southgate explained that his priorities now lie outside football. He said his focus is on reflection, mentorship, and youth leadership projects, rather than jumping back into the dugout.
“I’M VERY RELAXED ABOUT NOT BEING IN FOOTBALL”
Speaking to BBC Radio 5 Live, Southgate was asked whether he might be tempted by the Manchester United job. Smiling, he replied:
“Well, I think they’ve got a manager and he seems to be doing pretty well at the moment.”
Reflecting on his time with England, he added:
“I had an amazing time. The great thing about managing England was the sense of purpose — trying to make English football better and helping youth development in particular. Somehow, I ended up managing the first team, and we had a pretty good period.”
But after nearly four decades in the sport, Southgate insists he’s in no rush to return.
“I’m not desperate to stay in football. You can never say never, but it’s not high on my agenda. I’m enjoying my leadership work and my projects with young people. I’m very determined to make a difference there, and I’m very relaxed about not being in football right now.”
A NEW CHAPTER BEYOND THE TOUCHLINE
Southgate also shared how stepping away from the England job has given him a new sense of perspective.
“With the national team, there was a greater purpose — improving youth football, how English players were viewed around the world, and creating more opportunities for English coaches,” he said.
“People assume you always want to stay in football, but I’m very passionate about my work with young men and leadership.”