Southgate hesitates regarding the job at Manchester United: What is the reason?.

Gareth Southgate has doubts about a possible appointment at Manchester United

According to The Sun: Gareth Southgate expressed concerns that he might not find enough time to develop Manchester United into a strong team if he becomes their new coach.

Southgate is open to discussing a possible appointment if the club decides to dismiss current coach Ruben Amorim.

Sources close to the situation report that Southgate, a fan of Manchester United, believes it could take up to four years for the club to be contenders for the Champions League again.

The former England national team coach wants to ensure that the club follows a long-term plan.

Southgate is also concerned that Manchester United will demand quick success, as he prefers a gradual development over a longer period.

Southgate's plans for the future

The 55-year-old coach is in no rush to return to management after stepping down as head coach of England in July 2024.

Southgate plans to hold two events next month in London and York to promote his new book 'Dear England: Lessons in Leadership' and is also working on other projects unrelated to football. He hints that he may not return to management.

After Jim Ratcliffe became co-owner of the club in February 2024, Southgate has been linked to the vacant managerial position at United.

Ratcliffe has tasked cycling expert Dave Brailsford with reviewing the club's structure, and Brailsford has good relations with Southgate.

The former sporting director of United, Dan Ashworth, supported Southgate's candidacy as he had previously worked with him in the national team, but his opinion was ignored by CEO Omar Berrada, who hired Amorim for this position.

The absence of Brailsford and Ashworth in the club management could pose a hurdle for Southgate because of their personal and professional connections.

Southgate has not worked in the Premier League since May 2009 when his team Middlesbrough was relegated. In those eight years, he was the coach of England, reaching the World Cup semifinals and two Euro finals, earning him a knighthood.

The situation regarding a possible appointment of Southgate at Manchester United remains uncertain, as he must be assured of the support for a long-term plan from the club and not strive for immediate results. Changes in club management and relationships with the new leadership could be crucial for decision-making. Whether Southgate can find a balance between ambitions and the realities of the club will only time tell.