Gareth Southgate remains unfazed by the idea of returning to club management once he eventually concludes his tenure as the England coach.
Southgate has been absent from club-level management for nearly 15 years, having been dismissed by Middlesbrough in 2009 following a three-season stint at the Riverside Stadium.
Since then, Southgate has enjoyed success, notably leading the England Under-21 team before assuming the role of the senior national team coach in 2016. During his tenure with the Three Lions, Southgate has overseen a remarkable resurgence in England’s international performances. His leadership saw England reach the World Cup semi-finals in 2018, marking the first such achievement since 1990, and the team’s appearance in the Euro 2020 final, which was England’s first major tournament final since 1966.
His existing contract is valid until the conclusion of 2024, and there’s widespread speculation that Euro 2024 could mark his final tournament as the Three Lions’ head coach.
Following his stint with England, Southgate is anticipated to transition back to club management. In an interview with Sky Sports, he asserted that he doesn’t feel intimidated by the prospect, citing his rich experiences leading the national team:
“When I was 35 years old managing in the Premier League, finishing 12th and 13th, I had far less knowledge than I do now. Having lived through this role, there’s no managerial position in world football that could intimidate or worry you.
“I recall a conversation with Jose [Mourinho] during his time at Man United. He told me, ‘When you’ve completed your current role, you’ll be equipped to tackle anything.’
“At that moment, I believed it might be accurate, but seven years later, I’m absolutely convinced. I feel confident in my current role and whatever lies ahead.
“Although I don’t anticipate being in this position for 20 or 30 years, I’m unsure about the future. However, I’m relaxed about it and not concerned about what it might hold.”
