In a revelation that sheds light on his future aspirations, England manager Gareth Southgate has disclosed a conversation with Roma boss Jose Mourinho, in which the renowned Portuguese manager conveyed his belief in Southgate’s potential to excel in any role within the realm of football.
Having assumed the helm of the Three Lions in 2016, Southgate has steered the national team to notable achievements, including a semi-final appearance in the 2018 World Cup and a runner-up finish in Euro 2020, where England succumbed to Italy in a gripping penalty shoot-out. Despite his contract extending until December 2024, Southgate contemplates that the forthcoming European Championships in Germany might culminate as his final major tournament in charge.
Prior to his tenure with the England national team, Southgate commenced his managerial journey at Middlesbrough and now harbors an eager inclination to validate his managerial prowess in club football once again.
During a time when Mourinho presided over Manchester United, he imparted his perspective to Southgate, affirming, “You know, when you’ve done the role you’re in now, you’ll be able to do anything.” Southgate, reflecting on this conversation, recollected, “Really? I thought that was probably right, but seven years into it, it’s definitely right.”
Southgate’s open acknowledgment of Mourinho’s counsel adds a compelling layer to his professional trajectory, unveiling his contemplation of venturing into club management, thereby amplifying intrigue around his prospective endeavors in the fervently competitive arena of the Premier League.