Gareth Southgate is optimistic about returning to club management after his stint as England’s national team coach concludes. Despite not having managed a club since his dismissal from Middlesbrough in 2009, Southgate remains undeterred by the prospect of club management.
Since his departure from Middlesbrough, Southgate has had a successful run managing England’s Under-21 team before taking on the senior national team role in 2016. Under his leadership, the England team achieved significant milestones: they reached their first World Cup semi-final since 1990 in 2018 and advanced to their first major tournament final since 1966 at Euro 2020, where they narrowly lost to Italy in a penalty shootout.
Southgate’s contract with the national team extends until the end of 2024, with Euro 2024 speculated to be his final tournament as the manager. In an interview with Sky Sports, Southgate expressed his readiness to return to club management, citing the extensive experience he has gained while managing the national team.
Reflecting on his past experiences, Southgate remarked, “I was 35 when I managed in the Premier League, and we finished 12th and 13th. I knew nothing compared to what I know now.” He believes that his experience with the national team has prepared him for any future role, stating, “After this role, no job in world football would intimidate or daunt me.”
Southgate also recounted a conversation with Jose Mourinho, who told him, “When you’ve done the role you’re in now, you’ll be able to do anything.” Seven years into his tenure with England, Southgate agrees with Mourinho’s assessment, feeling more confident and capable than ever before.
His tenure with the national team has provided him with invaluable knowledge and skills, making him feel ready to manage at any level. He calmly remarked, “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.”
Southgate’s confidence stems from the challenges he has faced while managing England, which have equipped him to handle future roles. The success and resilience he has demonstrated in revitalizing England’s fortunes underscore his growth as a manager and his readiness for new challenges.
Amidst speculation about his future, Southgate remains focused and unbothered by the uncertainty. He is ready to return to club management with a wealth of experience and newfound confidence. His journey with England has not only honed his managerial skills but also solidified his belief that he can handle any football management role in the future.
