Gareth Southgate has been increasingly linked with the Manchester United job as Sir Jim Ratcliffe continues his overhaul, with Sir Dave Brailsford a key ally of the billionaire. Southgate attended Brailsford’s star-studded birthday party amid rumours that Manchester United are considering appointing him as their next manager. Brailsford, who is acting as Ratcliffe’s man on the ground at United, is conducting a review of the club’s structure, with a focus on the future of Erik ten Hag. If Ten Hag is let go, Ratcliffe is expected to pursue Southgate, who has led England successfully and will manage them in Euro 2024. However, Southgate’s future beyond that is uncertain, and a move to Old Trafford could be on the cards.
Southgate’s attendance at Brailsford’s birthday dinner alongside incoming United sporting director Dan Ashworth has fueled speculation about his possible move to the club. The private social event also included legendary former Red Devils boss Sir Alex Ferguson and former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger. The relaxed atmosphere of the dinner indicated that football matters were discussed among the guests, giving further weight to the ongoing rumors linking Southgate to the United job. The invitation to such an event suggests that Southgate is seen as a significant figure in the future plans of Ratcliffe and Brailsford at the club.
Despite the growing rumors and speculations, Southgate has firmly denied any interest in the Manchester United job. Ahead of England’s match against Brazil, he reiterated his commitment to the national team and condemned any discussions about Ten Hag’s future as “disrespectful.” As the president of the League Managers’ Association, Southgate emphasized his focus on the upcoming European Championship and expressed his loyalty to his current position. He made it clear that he would not engage in talks with any other club while being the England manager, asserting his dedication to his current role. These statements indicate that Southgate is committed to leading the Three Lions and is not actively seeking the manager position at United.
The presence of Brailsford as a key figure at Manchester United since Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s arrival underscores the influence of the billionaire owner in shaping the club’s future. Ratcliffe’s investment has brought about changes in the club’s structure and decision-making processes, with Brailsford playing a pivotal role in overseeing these transitions. The dynamic between Ratcliffe, Brailsford, and potentially Southgate reflects a shift in the direction of the club under new ownership. If Southgate were to join United, it would mark a significant change in the managerial landscape of the Premier League, with implications for both the national team and the club’s future.
The ongoing speculation surrounding Gareth Southgate’s potential move to Manchester United raises questions about the future of both the England manager and the Red Devils. As Southgate continues to lead the English national team with success, his possible transition to Old Trafford signifies a significant shift in his career trajectory. The connections between Southgate, Brailsford, and Ratcliffe suggest a strategic alliance that could reshape the managerial landscape in English football. While Southgate has refuted the rumors about his interest in the United job, the ongoing discussions and events point to a potentially transformative moment in his career and the football world at large. Whether Southgate eventually takes charge at United or remains with England, his presence at the center of these discussions highlights his growing stature as a managerial figure in the sport.
