Gareth Southgate rules out the possibility of a return to football as he doesn't want to restart his managerial career

Gareth Southgate denies the possibility of a managerial return.

Former England manager Sir Gareth Southgate has stated that he doesn't intend to return to managing a club, citing the reason that his time in charge of England gave him a sense of purpose that would be hard to find elsewhere.

Speaking on the BBC Radio 4's Today programme, Southgate suggested he now wants to dedicate his energies to supporting young people and helping challenge what he called a growing "negative narrative" in society.

What did Southgate say?

Asked about reports linking him with the various available Premier League and overseas managerial jobs, Southgate made it clear he is not seeking a move.

"I've been fortunate enough to have one of the most remarkable jobs in football, and one that also carried a greater meaning because I was representing my country," he said. "It's very hard to find a similar role that provides that same sense of purpose. After 37 years involved in football, I'm enjoying exploring areas where I can contribute differently."

Southgate spoke to the BBC ahead of the release of his new book, *Dear England: Lessons in Leadership*, which comes out on Thursday. He explained that the themes in the book draw both from his time in charge of the national team and as a parent himself. He speaks of the value of good role models in helping young people find a positive route and illustrates that these years of their life can shape their future.

Reflecting on his early years as England manager, Southgate said that the national team had lost the public's connection and trust. "When we started, there was a real distance between the team and the fans. People thought the players were arrogant," he said. "We were able to change that perception, and I saw how football could unite people from every background."

As a father, Southgate said he had learned that children eventually look outside the family for influence, which makes it all the more crucial that they find the right guidance.

“There’s a lot of pessimism in the country right now,” he added. “Young people need hope. They need positive influences and supportive circles of friends. Those choices can shape the whole direction of their lives.”

Southgate believes that the UK still shares more common values than differences, yet he readily acknowledged that public attention is often drawn toward division. "It's understandable that people are frustrated when many communities are struggling economically," he said. "But I've also seen how strong we can be when we come together. During Covid, for example, we saw communities helping one another. That resilience is when we're at our best." *Dear England* by Gareth Southgate is published by Cornerstone (£25). Copies are available via the Guardian Bookshop, though delivery charges may apply.