Former England manager Gareth Southgate has revealed he will not take up another managerial role for at least a year despite rumors of a move to struggling Manchester United.
The former international defender spent almost eight years in charge of England’s senior men’s team, stepping down two days later. the Three Lions were defeated 2-1 for Spain in the final of last summer’s European Championship.
Southgate was promoted as a possible replacement for Erik ten Hag at Manchester United before Euro 2024 had started and was again linked to the position following the club’s unconvincing start to the Premier League season. However, the former Middlesbrough boss has played down any talk of an imminent return to the dugout.
“I’m enjoying my life so there’s no rush,” Southgate was quoted as saying at the European Club Association general assembly on Thursday. Reuters. “For 11 years I fully committed myself to the national federation. I will not train next year for sure. I am sure of it. When you leave a big role you have to give time to your body, time to your mind. “
The 54-year-old also distanced himself from taking charge of a different national team at any point in the future. “It’s unlikely to be another national federation,” Southgate explained “England was of the heart.”
When asked about a possible return to club football, a realm he has not occupied since being sacked by Middlesbrough in 2009 after the club. Premier League relegation – Southgate said it would “depend on what role”. He added: “I’ve been lucky to have worked with fantastic players. You have to have excitement, passion to go to work every day.”
Whatever position Southgate takes, it won’t be as mentally taxing as that England work “Sometimes when you’re in a big role, you don’t realize the weight until it’s gone,” he reflected. “It’s one of those jobs where everyone has an opinion.”
