Why Gareth Southgate is HESITANT about replacing Ruben Amorim at Man Utd

Cameron Smith

3 Oct 2025 13:51 BST
4 min read

Sir Gareth Southgate is reportedly hesitant about replacing Ruben Amorim at Manchester United amid rumours that he could be chosen as the Red Devils’ new head coach.

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Southgate, 55, has been out of work since resigning as England boss following their defeat to Spain in the 2024 European Championship final, but he is the bookies’ favourite to become the next Man Utd manager.

The Englishman has a close relationship with INEOS chief Sir Jim Ratcliffe and it has been widely reported that he has already discussed a possible move to Old Trafford with the minority Man Utd owner.

However, The Sun’s Man Utd correspondent Samuel Luckhurst has claimed that Southgate believes it could take up to four years to turn the club back into contenders for the Champions League.

He is reportedly concerned that instant success will be demanded if he replaces Amorim at the helm and he would demand assurances of a long-term plan.

Southgate is open to entering into negotiations over becoming the Man Utd boss, however The Sun state that he will not rush back to football management unless the opportunity is right.

© IMAGO - Gareth Southgate could become the next Man Utd manager

Who will become the next Man Utd manager?

Although Southgate isn’t yet convinced by the potential opportunity to replace Amorim at Man Utd, there are two high-profile head coaches who are reportedly eager to join the Red Devils if INEOS decide to push ahead with a managerial change.

Football transfer news expert Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that Barcelona legend Xavi wants to take over at Man Utd as he looks to return to management, while Crystal Palace boss Oliver Glasner has his “eyes set” on an Old Trafford switch.

That is according to a bombshell report from renowned X account IndyKaila, who claim that Glasner has rejected a contract extension offer from Palace. However, the Selhurst Park outfit are currently on a 19-match unbeaten run and it therefore appears unlikely that Glasner will leave the club just yet.

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