Sarthak Joshi
England manager Gareth Southgate responds to the speculation linking him to the Manchester United job
England manager Gareth Southgate has dismissed speculation linking him to the Manchester United job as “completely disrespectful” to current boss Erik ten Hag. Southgate emphasized that he will not entertain discussions with any interested parties until after Euro 2024.
Despite being at the helm of the Three Lions since 2016, Southgate’s contract is set to expire in December. He previously contemplated stepping down after England’s loss to France in the quarterfinals of the 2022 World Cup.
Addressing the media via The Metro ahead of a friendly against Brazil, Southgate expressed his frustration with the reports linking him to Manchester United, reaffirming his commitment to England until after Euro 2024.
Southgate’s response to the media was:
“I think there are two things from my point of view, one is that I’m the England manager, I’ve got one job basically — to try and deliver a European Championship. Clearly before that, there are two important games this week.”
“Second thing is, Manchester United have a manager and I think it is always completely disrespectful when there is a manager in place. I’m president of the LMA [League Managers’ Association] so I don’t have any time for that sort of thing really.”
Southgate insisted he would not hold talks with any clubs heading into the Euros, insisting his sole focus is on ending England’s wait for a major trophy. While winning it will not do his reputation any damage, the opportunity to manage a club like Manchester United does not come around often.
The Football Association (FA) is eager for Gareth Southgate to remain in his role through the 2026 World Cup. However, Southgate has asserted that he will postpone any decision regarding his future until after this summer’s finals.
Securing a title will certainly cement Southgate’s spot as an all-time great in Three Lions’ history. Whether it will also see United more eager to get their man remains to be seen.
More Manchester United news
- “It could happen”- Roy Keane rates Manchester United star’s chances of making England’s 2024 Euros squad
- Manchester United legend Gary Neville is in agreement with Liverpool over major FA Cup rule change
- Roy Keane gives his opinion on Gareth Southgate replacing Erik ten Hag at Manchester United
While Manchester United may be seeking a replacement for Erik ten Hag, Gareth Southgate has firmly stated that he is fully focused on the upcoming Euro and has no plans to consider such offers at the moment.
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