Gareth Southgate breaks silence on Leicester City’s managerial link

Gareth Southgate is not planning a return to the dugout in the near future, despite unexpected speculation linking him with the vacant managerial role at Leicester City.

Leicester dismissed Marti Cifuentes after last month’s defeat to Oxford United and are now reviewing several potential successors.

Southgate’s name had surfaced as a possible candidate for the position at the King Power Stadium, with the former England national football team manager still unattached since stepping down in 2024.

However, speaking on the latest episode of the Football Insider’s Transfer Insider podcast, it was revealed that the 55-year-old has little desire to jump back into club management at this stage.

The challenging circumstances at Leicester including their ongoing relegation fight following a points deduction have also made the job less appealing.

Reports suggesting Southgate could be in contention raised eyebrows given the Foxes’ difficulties on and off the pitch.

He has already distanced himself from other vacancies, including roles at Manchester United and Crystal Palace, making a switch to a struggling Championship side seem unlikely.

On the podcast, it was explained that Southgate is not rushing back into management and is content with his current situation. While the Leicester role is considered a significant one, it comes with the pressure of a relegation battle in the Championship after their recent sanction.

The club’s broader issues further complicate the challenge for any incoming manager. If Southgate were to return, it is believed he would target a higher-profile opportunity.

Leicester are considering several other names. Sean Dyche has been mentioned after his recent dismissal by Nottingham Forest amid their own relegation concerns. Former Southampton boss Ralph Hasenhuttl has also been linked, following his exit from VfL Wolfsburg in 2025.

Meanwhile, Steven Gerrard is another potential option as he weighs up a managerial comeback, having declined an approach from Rangers last year.

Leicester’s points deduction has dragged them firmly into the relegation scrap. They currently sit just above the drop zone on goal difference, with only six points separating 23rd-placed Oxford United and 19th-placed West Bromwich Albion. The club’s next managerial appointment could prove decisive in determining their Championship survival.