'It's completely disrespectful!' - England boss Gareth Southgate dismisses rumours linking him with Manchester United job

Posted Saturday, March 23, 2024 by Goal.com

Gareth Southgate has rubbished "completely disrespectful" rumours linking him with the Manchester United job.

Southgate focussed on England duty
Does not want any speculation on his future
Ratcliffe reportedly wants him at Old Trafford

WHAT HAPPENED?

Recent reports have suggested that Manchester United's new co-owner, Sir Jim Ratcliffe of INEOS, has identified Southgate as their top choice to replace Erik ten Hag, should the club decide to part ways with the Dutchman. Erik ten Hag, who assumed the managerial role at Old Trafford in May 2022, has faced scrutiny throughout the season, especially with United's inconsistent performances, raising doubts about their qualification for the Champions League.

WHAT SOUTHGATE SAID

Addressing the media ahead of England's friendly match against Brazil, Southgate emphasized his commitment to his current role, stating, "There are two things. I’m the England manager, I have got one job basically. To try and deliver a European Championship. Clearly, before that, we have two important games this week."

He further added, "Secondly, Manchester United have a manager, and I think it is completely disrespectful that there is any speculation over a manager’s place. I am president of the League Managers’ Association. I don’t have any time for that sort of thing."

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Southgate, whose contract with the England national team is set to expire after the upcoming European Championships, once again made it clear that he would not engage in discussions with any other clubs before the Euros, underscoring his dedication to England's quest for a major trophy.

"My focus is the European Championship," he said.

"If we did something, a contract before, everyone would be saying, 'why are you signing a contract before the Euros?' I’m certainly not going to speak to anyone else before that. I never have. I have been eight years in the job. I wouldn’t entertain speaking to anybody else when I am in a job.”

WHAT NEXT?

England are scheduled to face Brazil, the five-time World Cup champion, on Saturday night, followed by a match against Belgium in the capital at Wembley on Tuesday.