Gareth Southgate asserts that he hasn't thought about the future and is fully focused on leading the England national team to victory in the upcoming Euro tournament in Germany this summer.
In an interview at the England national team's St George's Park headquarters with Sky News, the head coach Gareth Southgate affirmed that he and the entire team are solely focused on the upcoming goal of winning Euro 2024.
"At the moment, we are putting all our efforts into the tournament this summer. I've been associated with this place for over 10 years, and my sole ambition is to win," Southgate shared.
"So, any other decisions will have to wait until after the tournament ends. If we win, perhaps I'll retire and enjoy life," he added.
[caption id="attachment_5334" align="alignnone" width="600"] The English strategist hints at the possibility of retirement after Euro 2024. Photo: Sky News.[/caption]
This will be Southgate's fourth tournament leading the Three Lions since taking office in 2016. Under his leadership, the England national team has achieved impressive feats such as reaching the semi-finals of the 2018 World Cup, the quarter-finals of the 2022 World Cup, and the final of Euro 2021 (losing in a nerve-wracking penalty shootout).
When asked about the future after Euro 2024, Southgate said: 'I think that's a decision for both me and the Football Association of England. We're always discussing this issue.'
Currently, Southgate's top priority is to focus on preparing for Euro 2024, which will take place in Germany next month. With a highly-rated squad, fans hope Southgate will continue to lead the England national team to new successes.
[caption id="attachment_5336" align="alignnone" width="600"] The England team has come very close to glory under Southgate's tenure, and now it could be his last big opportunity. Photo: Getty Images.[/caption]
Recently, Southgate has been linked with the position of Manchester United's head coach, as the club is seeking a replacement in case Erik ten Hag is sacked. This could be an opportunity for the 52-year-old coach to return to club management after 15 years since leaving Middlesbrough.
However, Southgate has asserted that he is not interested in any offers until after Euro 2024 concludes, and he has not engaged in negotiations with any club during his tenure as England's manager.
"I have never spoken to any club during my time in charge - I think that would be disrespectful to the position I hold. When you've worked as hard and as diligently as you have to get the opportunity to lead your country and guide them to something, then you have to focus 100% on that. And that's my position," Southgate said.
[caption id="attachment_5335" align="alignnone" width="600"] With a squad filled with superstars, the England national team is a potential candidate for the Euro 2024 championship. Photo: Getty Images.[/caption]
Gareth Southgate's statement reflects his absolute focus on the goal of helping the England national team win the upcoming Euro 2024 championship. The 52-year-old coach did not mention any personal future or ambitions other than glory with the Three Lions.
With his track record of guiding England to the semi-finals of the 2018 World Cup, the quarter-finals of the 2022 World Cup, and the final of Euro 2021, Southgate is highly regarded for his coaching skills and tactics. Fans are hopeful that he will successfully script a fairy-tale ending, leading the England national team to victory in the biggest tournament in Europe after years of waiting.
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