Gareth Southgate, undeterred by the prospect of returning to club management after his tenure as England coach, displays confidence in his abilities.
After nearly 15 years away from club-level management since departing Middlesbrough in 2009, Southgate has excelled in guiding England’s Under-21 team and, since 2016, the senior national squad.
Under his leadership, England experienced a notable resurgence, reaching the World Cup semi-finals in 2018 and making it to the Euro 2020 final, marking the team’s first major tournament final since 1966.
With his current contract extending until 2024, speculation suggests Euro 2024 could potentially mark the conclusion of Southgate’s tenure as England’s head coach.
In an interview with Sky Sports, Southgate expressed confidence in transitioning back to club management, emphasizing the valuable experiences gained from leading the national team.
Reflecting on his earlier years managing in the Premier League, he admitted to having less knowledge at the age of 35, achieving modest league finishes of 12th and 13th. However, having navigated through his current role, Southgate asserted that no managerial challenge in world football could unsettle or daunt him.
Recalling a conversation with Jose Mourinho during his time at Manchester United, Southgate shared Mourinho’s advice that completing his current role would adequately prepare him for any future endeavor.
Initially skeptical, Southgate now, seven years later, acknowledges the truth in Mourinho’s words.
He approaches his current role with confidence and maintains an open mindset toward future opportunities, expressing no intention of remaining in his current position for two or three decades.
Despite uncertainties surrounding the future, Southgate remains composed and unworried, echoing a sense of reassurance derived from his illustrious journey in football management.
