Gareth Southgate 'impresses in chat with Man Utd figure' as manager question says it all
Gareth Southgate has been strongly linked with becoming the first managerial appointment of the Sir Jim Ratcliffe era at Manchester United, with Erik ten Hag's future increasingly uncertain. While the England boss' credentials have been questioned among sceptics, he has displayed signs that he has the character to accept the role.
Related articles Marcus Rashford sent brutal message by PSG as Man Utd man's mind made up for him Man Utd captain Bruno Fernandes shows true colours in 'training ground exchange'Ten Hag's job security immediately came under scrutiny when Ratcliffe completed his £1.3billion investment for a 28 per cent stake in United in February.
The 71-year-old has since started to build a new-look structure to lead football operations under the INEOS banner, including a new chief executive, sporting director and technical director.
United's woeful results in recent months have worsened an already-underwhelming second season under Ten Hag, with Champions League football drifting further away by the week.
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Southgate is well-liked within INEOS and already shares relationships with Sir Dave Brailsford and incoming sporting director Dan Ashworth.
Combined with the expiry of his England contract after this summer's Euro 2024 in Germany, he has emerged as a strong contender to replace Ten Hag.
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And reports of a recent interaction at St George's Park suggest he carries class on camera and away from the spotlight, which will go far if his chances of becoming United's next manager rise.
In the latest United We Stand magazine, an unnamed former club employee revealed he had crossed paths with Southgate at England's training base.
He said: "We knew each other. He asked me how management was going. And unlike some who are as busy as him, I felt that he listened to what I told him, took in what I said and asked me relevant questions."
Southgate also impressed by respectfully dismissing claims that he is in the frame to succeed Ten Hag during the March international break.
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"There are two things from my point of view. One is that I'm the England manager. I've got one job: to try to deliver a European Championship. Clearly, before that, two important games this week," the 53-year-old explained.
"The second thing is Manchester United have a manager. It's always completely disrespectful when there's any speculation about a manager that's in place.
"I'm president of the LMA [League Managers Association] so I don't have any time for that sort of thing really."
Southgate is by no means certain to be United's first-choice candidate if they part ways with Ten Hag in the coming months. However, he has the demeanour that would be a strong foundation for success at Old Trafford.
Related articles Newcastle ready to anger Man Utd again as Magpies look to snap up Adrien Rabiot Four Man Utd stars let Erik ten Hag down vs Bournemouth before post-match dramaGareth Southgate 'impresses in chat with Man Utd figure' as manager question says it all
Gareth Southgate 'impresses in chat with Man Utd figure' as manager question says it all
Gareth Southgate 'impresses in chat with Man Utd figure' as manager question says it all
Gareth Southgate 'impresses in chat with Man Utd figure' as manager question says it all
Gareth Southgate 'impresses in chat with Man Utd figure' as manager question says it all
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