Gareth Southgate has expressed confidence about the idea of returning to club management once his tenure as England’s national team coach comes to an end. Despite not having been involved in club management for nearly 15 years—since being dismissed by Middlesbrough in 2009 after three seasons—Southgate remains undaunted by the prospect.
Since his departure from Middlesbrough, Southgate has revitalized his career through a successful stint as the manager of England’s Under-21 team before stepping up to manage the senior national team in 2016.
Under his leadership, England has experienced a significant resurgence in international competitions. Southgate guided England to their first World Cup semi-final since 1990 during the 2018 tournament and led the team to their first major tournament final since 1966 at Euro 2020, where they were narrowly defeated by Italy at Wembley Stadium.
Southgate’s current contract with the England national team extends until the end of 2024, with widespread speculation that Euro 2024 could be his final tournament as manager of the Three Lions.
Speaking to Sky Sports, Southgate made it clear that he feels prepared for a potential return to club management, drawing on the extensive experience he has gained while managing England.
Reflecting on his past experiences, Southgate noted, “I was 35 years old when I managed in the Premier League, and we finished 12th and 13th. I knew nothing compared to what I know now.
There isn’t a job in world football that would intimidate or daunt you after having lived through this one.” He elaborated on his growth by recounting a conversation with Jose Mourinho, who, during his time at Manchester United, told Southgate, “When you’ve done the role you’re in now, you’ll be able to do anything.” Seven years into his role with England, Southgate concurs with Mourinho’s sentiment, feeling more confident and capable than ever.
Southgate’s tenure with the national team has equipped him with a wealth of knowledge and experience, enhancing his ability to manage at any level of football. His calm and composed approach towards his future is evident as he states, “Of course, I’m not going to be here for 20/30 years, and I don’t know what the future will be. I’m very calm about that, but I’m not worried about what that might be.”
This level of confidence stems from the challenges and pressures he has faced while managing England, which he believes have prepared him for any future role in football.
The success and resilience he has shown in turning around England’s fortunes on the international stage reflect his growth as a manager and his readiness to take on new challenges.
As speculation continues about his future post-England, Southgate remains focused and unperturbed by the uncertainty.
His reflections on his journey, from being a young Premier League manager to leading a national team to significant achievements, underscore his readiness to return to club management with a wealth of experience and a newfound sense of confidence.
