Speculation linking Gareth Southgate to Manchester United has intensified in recent weeks, fueled by changes at Old Trafford and familiar faces returning to the club’s backroom staff. However, the former England manager has now made his stance clear: a Premier League return, including a move to Manchester United, is not on his agenda.
Southgate stepped away from international football in July 2024, following England’s defeat in the European Championship final. Since then, he has focused on business ventures and broadcasting, choosing a slower pace after eight years leading the national side.
No Interest in Returning to Club Football
In a candid interview on The Football Boardroom podcast, Southgate stated unequivocally:
“I’ve got no passion to just go and manage in the Premier League.”
His reasoning stems from perspective and experience. “I did that at 35, finishing 11th, 12th. Who occupies those positions now, probably Bournemouth, Brighton? I’ve had one of the biggest jobs in world football. Huge nights, working with outstanding players. No owner interference.”
Having guided England to two European Championship finals and a World Cup semi-final, the daily grind of club football no longer appeals. The scale and autonomy of the England role reshaped his professional expectations.
Manchester United Links Amid Backroom Moves
Speculation increased after Ruben Amorim left Manchester United last month. Michael Carrick took interim charge, supported by Steve Holland, Southgate’s long-time England assistant, sparking whispers of a potential move.
Southgate has firmly dismissed this idea:
“The bit that, externally, people are saying is, ‘well, he didn’t win’. So how do you prove that you can win? You’ve got to go to one of those big clubs,” he said.
“Do I think I could have done the job that some people in those clubs have done? Could I do better? Possibly. But there’s baggage that comes with me as an appointment. I understand that noise. That makes me a potentially complicated option for a club.”
Future Beyond the Dugout
Southgate’s focus isn’t limited to Manchester United. “I don’t want to manage another national team. Club? Honestly, it’s not what I’m looking to do. Two years after leaving England, I’m not actively seeking a coaching role. That European final was a highlight, and I don’t worry about what comes next.”
“There's another 15-20 years of my life ahead, and I’m excited about a different project, a different video, a different chapter of life.”
For now, Gareth Southgate and Manchester United remain separate stories, linked only by speculation rather than intent.
