Gareth Southgate may have already disclosed view on taking Man Utd job offer.
Gareth Southgate is keen to return to the Premier League, with Manchester United potentially being his next career move. Southgate has expressed his interest in managing Manchester United, indicating that he would welcome the opportunity.
He is seen as the top choice for Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS if Erik ten Hag is dismissed at the conclusion of the season.
The Daily Star reports that even clinching an FA Cup victory and securing qualification for the Champions League next season might not be sufficient to ensure Ten Hag’s tenure at Manchester United. If the Dutch manager were to be replaced, United’s new decision-makers are reportedly keen on appointing Southgate.
Having contributed significantly to England’s consistent performances in major tournaments, Southgate, aged 53, has been in charge since 2016. He guided the team to the final of Euro 2020 and the semi-finals of the 2018 World Cup.
While Southgate is currently preparing England for the upcoming Euros in Germany, his stance on the United job, if offered, may have already been disclosed. In a piece for the Players’ Tribune three years ago, Southgate revealed his admiration for Manchester United, citing Bryan Robson as his childhood hero after witnessing his performance in the 1982 World Cup against France.
Despite a distinguished playing career spanning over 400 Premier League games with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Middlesbrough, Southgate expressed regret at never representing Manchester United, stating in 2020: “I had two goals.”
“I had aspirations to represent England and Manchester United. Unfortunately, I never had the opportunity to play for Manchester United. But achieving one out of those two goals wasn’t too bad.”
Additionally, expressing his fondness for Manchester United, Southgate has expressed his desire to return to managing in the Premier League. The 53-year-old hasn’t been in the league since 2009, when his tenure at Middlesbrough, consisting of 151 matches, ended with his dismissal following relegation to the Championship.
In an interview with Sky Sports, he remarked, “I was 35 when I managed in the Premier League. Our finishes were 12th and 13th, and I didn’t possess the knowledge I have now.
People often mention Middlesbrough, ‘Oh, he got Middlesbrough relegated.’ Yes, we were relegated in the third year, but I had three years of Premier League experience. I’m confident I could replicate the atmosphere within the England camp at a Premier League club. There’s no doubt in my mind.
“No job in world football would intimidate or overwhelm you after experiencing this one [with England]. You wouldn’t find a higher profile, greater pressure, or more complex issues elsewhere.”
“I feel assured about whatever lies ahead in the future. Naturally, I won’t remain in this position [as England manager] for 20-30 years. I’m uncertain about what the future holds, but I’m quite composed about it.
“I recall conversing with Jose Mourinho during his time at Manchester United, and he remarked: ‘you know, once you’ve completed the role you’re in now, you’ll be capable of anything.’ I initially pondered the validity of that statement, but now, seven years later, I can attest to its truth.”
That would suggest his interest in assuming the United position, although the Football Association (FA) aims to persuade Southgate to continue as England’s manager beyond the Euros. They desire him to guide the team into the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico.
Regarding the possibility of leading the national team into a fifth major tournament, Southgate remarked last week: “I have to focus on excelling in my current role, so there’s no benefit in contemplating the future beyond that. My main priority is ensuring the best possible European Championship for England.
“We’ve deliberately postponed any internal discussions about what might lie ahead. I believe such deliberations could potentially harm the team. The team requires the smoothest path possible leading up to this tournament, so my objective is to alleviate pressure wherever feasible.”
Gareth Southgate may have already disclosed view on taking Man Utd job offer.