Man Utd target has already ruled out replacing Erik ten Hag in 13-word statement

It doesn't look like will be the man to replace at after the Dutchman was at Old Trafford.

The was heavily linked with the Red Devils' hotseat after leading England to back-to-back European Championship finals. As well as progress on the European stage, Southgate also guided England to the semi-final of the World Cup in 2018 and the quarter-final in 2022.

The 54-year-old called time on his Three Lions career after defeat in the Euro 2024 final to Spain and quickly resigned from the post. Prior to leaving the national side, United co-owner reportedly wanted to install Southgate as the United manager in the summer.

Ratcliffe eventually elected , but they have now pulled the trigger on the former Ajax's coach's underwhelming reign at United just nine league games into the new season. Any chance Ratcliffe will go back in for Southgate now looks to be over, however, after the ex-Middlesbrough coach recently insisted: "I won't coach in the next year for sure." He added: "I'm certain of that."

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Ratcliffe and INEOS director of sport Sir Dave Brailsford reportedly consulted some of United's legends about who should replace Ten Hag with the overwhelming choice being Southgate. The ex-England boss also had the backing of some of United’s current players, as well that of director of football Dan Ashworth.

However Ratcliffe's dream of coaxing Southgate to Manchester looks to be over for the time being. Speaking at the European Club Association general assembly in Athens earlier this month, Southgate categorically ruled out a quick return to management.

Southgate said: "I need to give myself time to make good decisions. When you come out of a really big role you need to give your body time, you need to give your mind time. I'm enjoying my life, so there's no rush.

"I'm fortunate that there are lots of different opportunities that are presenting themselves. The business side of football is really interesting I've been invited to speak at Harvard and there's lots of exciting life experiences to have.

"I'm 54 and want to enjoy and be really motivated for the next 10 to 15 years of my life and the most important thing is to give myself time to make good decisions."

currently sit 14th in the after they were at the London Stadium on Sunday. In a statement, United confirmed that former striker and Ten Hag's assistant Ruud van Nistelrooy would take interim charge.

"We are grateful to Erik for everything he has done during his time with us and wish him well for the future," the United statement read. "Ruud van Nistelrooy will take charge of the team as interim head coach, supported by the current coaching team, whilst a permanent head coach is recruited."

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