sportskeeda
SIR GARETH SOUTHGATE is apprehensive about whether he will receive the necessary time to transform Manchester United into a competitive force if he takes on the role of manager.
Southgate is open to considering the opportunity at United if the club chooses to part ways with the struggling coach, Ruben Amorim.
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Sources indicate that Southgate, a lifelong supporter of United, believes it may take as long as four years to bring the club back into contention for the Champions League.
The former England manager is seeking reassurances that United’s leadership will commit to any long-term plan they create.
He is also cautious about United’s potential expectation for immediate results—especially if he makes swift improvements—while advocating for steady progression over a prolonged period.
At 55, Southgate is not in a hurry to return to club management after his resignation as England manager in July 2024.
Next month, he will host two discussions in London and York to promote his upcoming book, *Dear England: Lessons in Leadership*, and is involved in various projects beyond football. He has even suggested that a return to management may not be in his future.
The former Middlesbrough manager has been linked to the United position since Sir Jim Ratcliffe took on co-ownership of the club in February 2024.
Ratcliffe assigned cycling expert Sir Dave Brailsford to restructure United’s framework, and Brailsford shares a close relationship with Southgate.
Former United sporting director Dan Ashworth endorsed Southgate as a leading candidate to succeed Erik ten Hag last year, having worked with him during their time with England, but was overruled by chief executive Omar Berrada, who opted for Amorim instead.
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Brailsford had recommended Ashworth, who only lasted five months in his role as sporting director before being dismissed due to a lack of “chemistry,” according to Ratcliffe.
Brailsford has since stepped back from his role at United and returned to cycling as the general manager of Ineos Grenadiers, although he remains listed as a director on United’s football board.
Gareth Southgate gives update on next job a year after stepping down as England manager
The absence of both Brailsford and Ashworth from United might hinder Southgate, given his close personal and professional connections with them.
Southgate hasn’t managed in the Premier League since Middlesbrough was relegated in May 2009.
He led England for eight years, taking them to a World Cup semi-final and two European Championship finals, achievements that resulted in his knighthood.
