Neville explains why Southgate would struggle as United’s manager.
Manchester United veteran Gary Neville believes former England manager Gareth Southgate is not the best “fit” for the Red Devils if Erik ten Hag leaves. Although Neville believes Southgate may help solve flaws within the squad, he is dubious of the Englishman’s suitability with United’s culture and fanbase.
What Gary Neville said:
Speaking on the It’s Called Soccer podcast, Neville discussed why Southgate will face a difficult assignment at Old Trafford:
“I’ve never seen Gareth as a fit for Manchester United, nor Manchester United as a fit for Gareth. I’ve never seen that as something that the club or Manchester United would do.”
Neville feels Southgate’s relationships with Manchester United sporting director Dan Ashworth, as well as his success with the England national team, qualify him as a candidate, but this does not ensure fan support.
“The only connection I see is that Dan Ashworth worked with Gareth, and Gareth has done an excellent job for England. Manchester United fans are a group of individuals with feelings and a spirit, and I don’t think they’re attached to this concept yet.”
The Bigger Picture: Could United Enter the Southgate Era?
While Southgate’s achievements with England demonstrate his ability to unite teams and instill discipline in the dressing room, Neville is unsure how that style will fit with Manchester United’s expectations and ethos. He argues that if Southgate is selected, United fans will be wary, even if he can bring structure to the squad, and he will need to win them over fast to avoid being viewed as a “safe” but uninteresting pick.
