Gareth Southgate rules himself out of Manchester United job for at least a year

Gareth Southgate has been heavily linked with the Manchester United job but has ruled out a return to management for at least a year as the club weigh up Erik ten Hag's future

Gareth Southgate has effectively taken himself out of the running for the Manchester United managerial position. The former England boss has stated that he will not be taking on another managerial role for at least a year after stepping down following last summer's Euros.

Despite being linked with Old Trafford due to his connections with the Man United hierarchy and respect from figures such as Sir Jim Ratcliffe, Southgate has quashed any speculation. He was considered a favourite by bookmakers to take over if Erik ten Hag were to be dismissed this season.

However, speaking at the European Club Association conference, Southgate confirmed: "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."

He emphasised the need for a break after eight years as England manager and mentioned exploring opportunities outside of football. Meanwhile, ex-Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel is reportedly interested in the Manchester United job should there be a change in management following the club's poor start to the season.

Manchester United's top brass convened for a marathon seven-hour meeting in London on Tuesday to deliberate over Erik ten Hag's future following the club's worst ever start to a Premier League season. Despite no official announcement, Ten Hag is reportedly confident of his position and is preparing as usual for the upcoming Premier League match against Brentford, reports the Mirror.

Currently, Man United are struggling in 14th place in the league table, having secured only two victories from their first seven matches. Their Europa League campaign has also been lacklustre, with draws against FC Twente and FC Porto.

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