Gareth Southgate’s future as England manager has been a major talking point ahead of Euro 2024 this summer.
The Three Lions boss will lead the country into his second European Championships and fourth major tournament later this month, with England getting things underway against Serbia on Sunday, June 16.
After reaching the semi-finals and quarter-finals at the World Cup as well as the Euros final four years ago, Southgate’s record is impressive.
However, there is one thing missing from his reign – silverware.
And another failed attempt to win an international trophy could spell the end of the 53-year-old’s time as England manager…
Is Southgate leaving England after Euro 2024?
Southgate will assess his future as England manager after Euro 2024.
Reports in September last year claimed that the Football Association were preparing for him to leave following the tournament.
talkSPORT understands that the former Middlesbrough manager is also a key contender for the Manchester United job if the Red Devils decide to part ways with Erik ten Hag.
The Dutchman’s future at Old Trafford is uncertain after a dismal campaign, and Sir Jim Ratcliffe is a huge admirer of Southgate.
The England boss also has a close working relationship with Man United’s new director of football, Dan Ashworth.
3
The pair worked together at the FA for a number of years before Ashworth moved on.
Southgate has spoken out about the links but admitted that he isn’t focusing on a potential move to the Red Devils.
Speaking to the BBC, he explained: “Well, for me, it’s not an issue and never has been.
“I have to deliver a successful tournament for England and there’s enough work involved in that.
“I think everybody would expect that’s where my focus should be.”
Southgate has also been very coy when speaking about his future in general but admitted a decision could be made after Euro 2024.
Most read in European Championship
He said: “You’ve got to see how the summer goes – it’s as simple as that.
“I know what we’re capable of achieving. I know what my own benchmark of success would be and after that I’m not really thinking about anything else.
3
“My only focus is to try and win the tournament for England.
“We’ve got to deliver performance and you’ve got to make the best decisions for everybody.
“I won’t be in a position to make that decision before the tournament.
“If we did anything before, it would be detrimental to the performance – whichever way your decision went.”
So it seems Southgate’s future as England manager will come down to whether the Three Lions win the Euros in Germany this summer.
If they do, he could still be in charge for the 2026 World Cup, but if they miss out again, there is likely to be a change.
And if he does depart, Man United could be waiting.