Gareth Southgate has dismissed the possibility of returning to coaching next year, despite speculation linking him to Manchester United.

**Carsley Provides Update on Kane’s Fitness Ahead of Greece Clash; Stones Reacts to Captaincy Appointment**

In a significant turn of events, Gareth Southgate has firmly ruled out a return to management in the next year, effectively quashing any speculation linking him with the managerial vacancy at Manchester United. The former England boss, who stepped down in July after an impressive eight-year tenure, led the national team to the Euro 2024 final, as well as consecutive appearances in the Euros finals and a semi-final run at the 2018 World Cup. Despite his commendable achievements, major silverware eluded Southgate, who is now taking the time to reflect on his next career move.

Speaking at the European Club Association general assembly in Athens, the 54-year-old stated, “I won’t coach in the next year, for sure. I’m certain of that. I need to give myself time to make good decisions. When you come out of a really big role, you need to give your body time, you need to give your mind time.” Southgate, who also represented England in three major tournaments as a player, elaborated on the importance of this downtime.

“I’m fortunate that there are lots of different opportunities that are presenting themselves. The business side of football is really interesting,” he added. “I’ve been invited to speak at Harvard, and there are lots of exciting life experiences to have.” At 54, Southgate is keen to enjoy the next decade or so of his life, stating, “The most important thing is to give myself time to make good decisions.”

There had been mounting speculation that Southgate could be the ideal candidate to replace Erik ten Hag at Old Trafford, especially with the Dutchman’s future hanging in the balance. However, Southgate hinted that he would only consider a return to club football if the club’s directors and coaching staff were aligned in their vision. Reflecting on his previous experience in club management, which was limited to a three-year stint at Middlesbrough, he remarked, “Clubs can only be successful if everything is aligned, right the way through the club.”

He also acknowledged the dynamics of club management, stating, “I also know that maybe the smarter people sit in the boardrooms, and the coaches are a little bit more dispensable than you think when you are there.” He concluded with a poignant observation: “As a coach, you think you’re the most important person. I sat in every boardroom in our country for eight years and realised you’re only a small piece in this whole thing.”

As the football world awaits Southgate’s next move, attention now turns to the upcoming clash against Greece, where the fitness of star striker Harry Kane remains a key talking point. Meanwhile, John Stones has expressed his thoughts on being appointed captain, adding another layer of intrigue to the national team’s preparations.