Manchester United have been linked with managers to replace Ruben Amorim, and Gareth Southgate is one of them
Manchester United remain at the centre of discussion, and the pressure on Ruben Amorim grows heavier every week. He arrived from Sporting CP in November 2024 with the promise of a fresh direction, yet results tell a different story. Last season ended with their lowest Premier League finish since the 1973-74 season, and losing the Europa League final deepened the disappointment. The summer window brought new signings and provided United with an opportunity to implement his methods, but early evidence suggests that the club has not yet made the progress.
This campaign began with a shock League Cup exit to fourth-tier Grimsby. That result stung supporters and raised doubts about Amorim’s ability to handle domestic challenges. Heavy defeats in the league followed, leaving United with just two wins from their opening six fixtures and a position of 14th in the table.
We reported earlier that Nottingham Forest are not keen to sell Manchester United target Elliot Anderson, but the frustration in the stands makes it clear that transfer chatter cannot distract from the present concerns. According to Fabrizio Romano on his YouTube channel, Gareth Southgate has admirers at Old Trafford through his INEOS connections, though no active talks exist at this stage.
“There are still no active talks between Man United and Gareth Southgate. We have these stories because of his very good personal connection with people at Ineos. I am not aware of talks, but from what I am told, Southgate could be one of the candidates if Man United decide to change their manager.”
The Southgate question
There should be mixed opinions on whether Southgate should become the new manager of the club, and obviously, both sides carry proper justifications. Some fans should highlight the 55-year-old’s ability to change the culture of the team. They should point out how he made the English camp a team with unity, and also addressed the differences between them. Moreover, Southgate’s experience of managing world-class stars in the national team should give him an extra point in his resume to become the manager at Old Trafford.
Reports suggest that the Englishman also has a good relationship with Sir Jim Ratcliffe, which could ease his approval if United want to get him on board. Moreover, the 55-year-old has shown his experience and willingness to trust young talents by providing them with chances in the national team during his tenure. This should serve well at Manchester United.
However, there are still some doubts over his possible appointment. Many argue that he is too cautious with his tactics. During his tenure with England, the team limited themselves in big moments, and the manager did not show ample flexibility with his tactics. His past club experience with Middlesbrough inspires little confidence, and the relentless pace of management at this level poses a steep challenge.
Why are there some critics?
Many fans should remain sceptical, view him as too negative and point to the absence of major silverware as proof that he may not fit. Questions also exist about his ability to attract elite international players compared with managers boasting stronger European track records. We reported earlier that Manchester United are facing a serious obstacle in their pursuit of Carlos Baleba, and securing elite signings remains central to their rebuild. Ultimately, Southgate’s suitability depends on whether he can adapt his strengths from the international stage to the daily demands of Old Trafford. It also depends on whether the club supports him through what would be a huge transition.