Revealed: Southgate TURNED DOWN Man Utd talks

Cameron Smith

28 May 2024 20:00 BST
3 min read

England manager Gareth Southgate was reportedly asked about the possibility of becoming Manchester United boss, but he was not interested in engaging in talks with the Red Devils.

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Southgate, 53, has been heavily linked with the Old Trafford job in recent months, largely due to his strong relationship with INEOS’ Sir Dave Brailsford.

The former Middlesbrough boss is under contract with England until December and he will lead the Three Lions through the upcoming 2024 European Championship in Germany.

However, Southgate could leave the England set-up following the conclusion of Euro 2024, which has prompted links of a summer move to Man Utd amid Erik ten Hag’s uncertain future.

The ex-Ajax boss guided Man Utd to FA Cup glory against Manchester City, but he remains under threat and could be sacked after the Red Devils’ eight place finish in the 2023-24 Premier League season.

Mauricio Pochettino, Thomas Tuchel and Roberto De Zerbi are the favourites to replace the Dutchman, with Kieran McKenna set to sign a new long-term contract at Ipswich Town.

According to Sky Sports’ Kaveh Solhekol, Southgate was sounded out about the possibility of taking over at Man Utd, but he had no interest in discussing anything other than his role as England boss.

© IMAGO - Gareth Southgate was wanted by Man Utd

What has Gareth Southgate said?

Earlier this month, Southgate was asked about links with a move to Man Utd, but he was eager to brush off such reports.

When asked about whether he would consider a return to club management, Southgate told ITV News: “‘If I start talking about that, then I'm already distracted from what I'm doing, so I think the country would expect that my focus is on England, and rightly so.

"We've had three tournaments where we've taken the public on a brilliant ride, and I know that we've got that desire to go that one step further.”

England will face Serbia on 16 June in their first Euro 2024 game, while Slovenia and Denmark are also in Group C.

Read more about: Premier League, England, Man Utd