Before INEOS affirmed their faith in Erik ten Hag back in June, there were a handful of strong contenders to fill his boots at Old Trafford.
The likes of Thomas Tuchel, Graham Potter, Kieran McKenna, Thomas Frank and Gareth Southgate had all reportedly been shortlisted by Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Co. as potential candidates to take the reins of England’s most successful club.
Yet, an unexpected and convincing FA Cup triumph over Manchester City threw a spanner in the works. The expectation heading into the tie – United’s final game of the campaign – was that the Dutchman would be relieved of his duties, but acquiring a second trophy in the sophomore year of his tenure convinced INEOS chiefs that he should be given more time.
Now that the 2024/2025 term has quickly seen the side resort to their unflattering ways, Ten Hag again finds himself in a place of uncertainty, and widespread speculation over his potential successor after only three matches played won’t be doing him any favours settling a frenzied dressing room.
Southgate was thought to be Ratcliffe’s first-choice manager throughout the summer, with the only stumbling block being his England commitments as they entered the Euro 2024 tournament. Their final defeat commenced his time as Three Lions boss, meaning he is now fully available to take on a new venture – much to the United faithful’s dismay.
Southgate discusses next steps after England exit
Speaking to Sky Sports (cited by Manchester Evening News) about what the future holds, Southgate revealed: “I’ve got lots of opportunities, I’m very open-minded to what’s next.
“That might be in football, that might be outside of football. I’m just going to take some time, refresh, recharge and go from there. I think at the moment people know that I need to get my energy back. I am intent on enjoying my life. I’m not going to rush into anything.
“I want to make sure that I make good decisions. There are lots of different experiences that I am enjoying. I have got some charities that I want to support that are very important to me.”
