Gareth Southgate Addresses Manchester United Links, Focuses on Leadership Work After Leaving England Job
Gareth Southgate has spoken publicly about continued speculation linking him with the Manchester United manager’s job, explaining that he remains “very relaxed” about being away from football. The former England boss, who stepped down following Euro 2024, is now concentrating on his new book Dear England: Lessons in Leadership and youth mentorship projects.
Gareth Southgate dismisses Manchester United job rumours, focusing on leadership, mentorship, and his new book after leaving the England role.
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The 55-year-old ex-England manager has been repeatedly associated with the Manchester United position since leaving the national team after England’s Euro 2024 final defeat to Spain. His name continues to surface due to his relationship with INEOS sporting director Sir Dave Brailsford, but Southgate maintains that his current focus is entirely outside football. He has confirmed that his attention is on leadership development and working with young people rather than preparing for a managerial return.
Speaking during the promotional tour for his book, Southgate underlined that his current purpose revolves around reflection and mentorship. The book explores leadership lessons drawn from his eight years managing England, where he guided the national side to two European Championship finals and a World Cup semi-final. His public appearances have highlighted his interest in youth development and leadership beyond the sporting world.
In a BBC Radio 5 Live interview, Southgate responded to a question about whether the Manchester United job could lure him back to management. He smiled and said, “I think they’ve got a manager and he seems to be doing pretty well at the moment.” Southgate reflected on his 37 years in football and noted that he is not eager to jump back into management unless a future project genuinely inspires him. He added that he is enjoying working with young people and using his experience to help others grow.
Southgate acknowledged that stepping away from the England job has given him a broader perspective on leadership and purpose. He explained that his original role at the Football Association focused on youth development and improving opportunities for English coaches. His eventual rise to the senior manager’s position allowed him to shape the culture of the national team, leading England to consistent success and a renewed sense of unity.
Appointed in 2016, Southgate transformed the atmosphere surrounding the England team. His tenure delivered historic results, including a World Cup semi-final in 2018, the Euro 2020 final, and another European final in 2024. Beyond results, his leadership style prioritised emotional intelligence, inclusivity, and player welfare. These principles now underpin his book, where he discusses the challenges of leadership under pressure and the character traits required for long-term success.
Although speculation about his future remains, Southgate continues to emphasize that his focus is on life beyond football. His speaking engagements and leadership projects will continue through the end of the year as he promotes the release of Dear England: Lessons in Leadership. For now, he remains content outside management, exploring new ways to apply his experience and inspire others through education and mentorship.
