Southgate not pondering over contract situation amid Manchester United interest
Ahead of UEFA Euro 2024, Gareth Southgate has insisted that he is not worried about his contract with the England men’s national football team amidst interest from Manchester United.
The Englishman’s contract enters the final six months, opening room for further speculation with Man United also lurking in the background to bring him to Old Trafford.
As quoted by BBC Sport, Southgate says he is focused on doing well with England at the Euros.
“Well, for me, it’s [the contract] not an issue and never has been.
“I have to deliver a successful tournament for England and there’s enough work involved in that. I think everybody would expect that’s where my focus should be.
“There will always be speculation about managers, because if you lose a couple of games, you’re in trouble – you win a couple of games and it is a different agenda.
“But for me, it [Euro 2024] is a brilliant opportunity. We’re looking forward to the tournament. My focus is on how do we go a step further than we went in the last Euros [when they were beaten on penalties in the final by Italy].”
The 53-year-old is expected to announce the England Euro 2024 squad shortly after the 2023/24 Premier League season concludes on May 19.
United have one big issue to iron out before appointing a long-term manager
Given the way United’s season is ending, it is understandable that many, including those at the club, may be inclined to believe that changing the United men’s team manager is important, even if just for the sake of change.
Such is the nature of modern-day football. That’s not to say Erik ten Hag couldn’t resuscitate this United side next season, but the way perceptions work now means he will not get to.
Before United make a managerial call, however, they need to make a directorial one. The INEOS Group is willing to wait for Dan Ashworth, even if that means entering next season without a sporting director, but that would mean leaving United’s short-term future up in the air.
So, regardless of whether they dismiss Ten Hag for someone else or keep him on board, United will enter next season without a long-term vision in place should they do so without a sporting director. That leaves the club to find a short-term solution for next season before Ashworth, or anyone else, arrives to hire their own manager.
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Do not be surprised if someone else were to arrive at Old Trafford on a two-year deal this summer if Ten Hag indeed is dismissed.
