Gareth Southgate has been the national team coach of England for seven years now. He expects to be able to work with major clubs after his tenure.
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Gareth Southgate, despite leading England to the final of Euro 2021, has consistently found himself in the midst of controversy as the national team coach.
However, the Football Association has chosen to stand by him, citing no compelling reasons for his dismissal. At 53 years old, Southgate is not only reflecting on his past achievements but also looking ahead, expressing a strong belief that he could secure opportunities with major clubs in the highly competitive Premier League. In an interview with Sky Sports, he confidently stated, 'I know I could do that, there's no doubt in my mind.'
Drawing from his managerial experience with Middlesbrough, Southgate delved into the challenges he faced in the Premier League at the relatively young age of 35. Despite finishing twelfth and thirteenth in the standings during his tenure, he acknowledges that his managerial knowledge at that time was considerably limited compared to his current understanding.
Reflecting on the scrutiny surrounding his management of Middlesbrough, he emphasized, 'Oh, he's made Middlesbrough get relegated. Well, in the third year, we got relegated. But I had three years of experience. It was my biggest achievement to go straight from player to manager in the toughest league in the world and maintain our status with this budget.' Southgate, who had a notable playing career with Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Middlesbrough, underscored the significance of this accomplishment.
Referencing statements made by José Mourinho during his tenure as the manager of Manchester United, Southgate echoed the sentiment that having held the role of a national team coach opens doors to managerial opportunities worldwide.
Initially, he believed Mourinho was correct in his assertion, but after seven years in the role, Southgate now expresses unwavering certainty in this belief. The seasoned coach remains resolute in his aspirations, highlighting that the challenges he has faced at the international level have uniquely prepared him for any managerial role in the dynamic and competitive world of football.
