Manchester United fans have a lot to say as Gareth Southgate comments on his future plans

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There are questions to answer over the manager’s job at Manchester United – yet nobody has been convinced that Gareth Southgate is the solution.

Erik ten Hag’s role at Manchester United is the subject of ongoing speculation – even though he does appear safe for now.

The list of potential manager replacements features former England manager Gareth Southgate, who is high in Ineos’ thinking due to his previous connections with key figures at the club.

The prospect of Southgate at United is not a popular one, however. His record in club football is minimal, and his selection choices and playing style with England was also divisive.

The advantage he did hold, was that he is now available, an easy instant appointment if Ineos decided to make a change. But that is looking a lot less likely now…

Gareth Southgate comments

Gareth Southgate has explained he is looking to take a year out, rather than rush into a managerial role.

He is quoted via BBC Sport speaking at the European Club Association: “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.

“I’m enjoying my life, so there’s no rush.”

While Ineos could delay a decision over Erik ten Hag until a time when Gareth Southgate is available, then in the eventuality a change is made now, or soon, the former England boss will not be in the running.

Manchester United fans react

Gareth Southgate’s comments alleviate immediate concerns from Manchester United fans that he could be taking charge at Old Trafford.

One fan wrote: “Big W for Manchester United, finally we will get a decent coach if we part ways with Erik. Southgate couldn’t even win gold with that England team!”

Another added: “I speak to all Manchester United fan that we don’t want Gareth Southgate as the next manager.”

“He did the right thing,” wrote another, of Southgate’s decision to rule himself out of the running.

“We don’t want Southgate,” added a further message, with another writing: “I hope he’ll keep his word because no @ManUtd fan wants him.”

“Good news he should be nowhere near Manchester United,” read another post.

What the future holds for the future England manager is unclear, just as Manchester United’s next steps remain a guessing game. But for now, it looks very much like Southgate and United’s futures will not be intertwined.