Mauricio Pochettino is on his way to Manchester United – and that is speeding up the search for his successor in the United States. Now, sources confirm that Sir Gareth Southgate is being discussed as one of four candidates. But the former England boss is far from convinced.
Southgate is mentioned in connection with almost every big job since he said goodbye as national team manager two years ago. While so far, no one has been able to tempt him enough to end the extended holiday. “Few believe the United States can do it, but it’s a relaxing and well-paid job, so no one is quite sure either.
Denmark is definitely ready to welcome Norway
Pochettino’s resignation sparked the candidate hunt
Sir Gareth Southgate’s name has been discussed by the US Soccer Federation as a potential successor to Pochettino, and TEAMtalk understands that the former England manager has emerged as one of the options being considered.
The US management was made aware late last week that Pochettino was a possible option for Manchester United, after the Argentine made it clear that he wanted to take over at Old Trafford. The development has been rapid – and the US Chiefs are already considering possible replacements if Pochettino ends up back in the Premier League.
| Candidate | Status |
|---|---|
| Pep Guardiola | The USA’s number one target – preferred outcome |
| Roberto Martinez | Should be interested in the role |
| Eddie Howe | Has been featured |
| Gareth Southgate | Discussed – but not interested |
Guardiola is the big target
TEAMtalk reports that former Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola is their number one target, and persuading the Catalan to take over the national team is considered the preferred outcome.
However, the US Soccer Federation has also considered alternative candidates while weighing their options:
- Former Belgium and Portugal manager Roberto Martinez is believed to be interested in the role
- Former Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has also been mentioned
Southgate in the race for the job – but not very relevant
Southgate is another name that has come up in these conversations. The former England boss has been out of club and national team management since leaving the national team in 2024, after leading the Three Lions to two straight European Championship finals.
Despite his name being debated in the United States, TEAMtalk understands that Southgate would have little interest in taking the job at this stage.
Southgate remains a significant figure in English football after his eight years as national team manager. A return to the FA could give him a path back to football – away from the day-to-day demands of management.
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