Gareth Southgate is reportedly Manchester United’s top target to replace Erik ten Hag. Former Liverpool defender Glen Johnson believes that Southgate, who has proven himself to be a “top manager,” should be strongly considered by the Reds if he becomes available. Liverpool is currently searching for Jurgen Klopp’s successor after he announced that this will be his final season at the helm. Xabi Alonso, the former Liverpool midfielder, is the bookmakers’ favorite to take over, but Johnson suggests that Liverpool should also consider Southgate.
Southgate, the head coach of the England national team, has been identified as Manchester United’s top target if results deteriorate and Ten Hag loses his job. Johnson believes that Liverpool should rival United for Southgate’s services, pointing out that he has done a brilliant job with England and could be successful at Liverpool due to the similar standard of players. Johnson emphasizes the importance of having a conversation and not dismissing Southgate if he becomes available in the summer.
Johnson also warns Southgate about the challenges of managing Manchester United, noting that several good managers have come and gone since Sir Alex Ferguson’s era. He acknowledges that it is an awkward topic to discuss, as it involves speculating about England’s manager going elsewhere and assuming Ten Hag’s future. However, he acknowledges that these discussions are inevitable.
Gareth Southgate’s contract as England manager is set to expire in December, and there has been speculation that he could potentially take over as the manager of Manchester United. However, former United player Paul Ince has warned that success is not guaranteed if Southgate were to take on the job. Ince pointed out that many good managers have struggled at United in the past, despite the club’s size and talented squad. While Southgate could potentially bring success to the team by getting rid of underperforming players and providing a strong foundation, Ince emphasized that there have been numerous managers who have failed in recent years.
Southgate himself has been quick to distance himself from the speculation, calling it “completely disrespectful.” He reiterated that his focus is solely on his role as England manager and the upcoming European Championship. Southgate emphasized that he has one job, and that is to deliver success for the national team. He also expressed his support for the current Manchester United manager, stating that it is disrespectful to speculate about someone else’s position.
The future of the Manchester United managerial position remains uncertain, but Southgate’s commitment to his role with England is clear.
