Gareth Southgate has ruled out a return to Premier League management, expressing that he "didn’t even enjoy the wins" during the latter part of his tenure with the England men’s national team. After stepping down following a defeat to Spain in the Euro 2024 final, Southgate revealed he has distanced himself from the sport, stating he hasn’t attended a match since watching his childhood club, Crystal Palace, triumph over Manchester City in the FA Cup final last year.

In a candid discussion on the Amol Rajan Connection podcast, the former England manager reflected on his nearly three and a half years at Middlesbrough, where he struggled to maintain Premier League status before being relegated in 2009. He indicated a clear lack of interest in top-flight management, saying, "I don’t see a scenario where I do that."

Southgate managed England for nearly eight years, coming close to securing the nation’s first men’s trophy since the 1966 World Cup. However, he has since embraced new opportunities, launching a podcast and presenting a BBC documentary that explores the challenges faced by young men and boys across the UK.

Reflecting on his life post-management, Southgate stated, "I’ve loved the last 18 months of my life," emphasizing the joy he has found in new experiences, learning about leadership, and engaging with various sectors, including politics and media. He noted, "I’ve just enjoyed playing a different film in my life," highlighting a significant shift in his perspective on football and personal fulfillment.