Former England manager Gareth Southgate has been rebuffed in his attempt to resume an international coaching career after Poland declined his offer to take up the position of national team manager.
Southgate guided the Three Lions to two European Championship finals and a World Cup during his eight-year tenure as leader, he reached the semi-finals Stepping down following the disappointment of losing the Euro 2024 final against Spain during the previous summer.
The 54-year-old maintained last year that he wasn’t eager to get back into management. but Polish daily newspaper Przeglad Sportowy this week claimed Southgate filed an application to lead Poland.
During an interview with the same magazine The president of the Polish Football Association, Cezary Kulesza, has stated that the ex-defender showed interest in taking up the position. However, due to 'no assurance of successful outcomes' from hiring an overseas coach, Southgate’s bid was turned down.
"We have received an offer to recruit him, however, we should keep in mind this fundamental point: no overseas coach can assure us qualification for the World Cup," Kulesza stated.
'If he provided us with such assurance, I would hire him right away.'
Kulesza cited Fernando Santos' recent tenure as the head coach of Poland to back up his argument against contemplating Southgate.
Santos led his homeland, Portugal, for eight years after an impressive tenure with clubs throughout Europe. However, his time as the head coach of Poland was short-lived, spanning fewer than ten months, and faced criticism due to subpar performance and absence from observing matches in the Polish league.
“Fernando Santos serves as a perfect case,” Kulesza stated. “He’s an accomplished coach with considerable fame; everybody clapped for him. However, the validation turned out to be unexpectedly shocking and distressing for all involved.”
Poland is looking to select Maciej Skorża instead. This seasoned coach oversees Japan’s Urawa Red Diamonds team, which is presently participating in the Club World Cup held in the United States.
Poland is seeking a new head coach following the unexpected resignation of Michal Probierz earlier this week.
Following Robert Lewandowski, Poland's all-time top scorer, stating that he will not represent the national team as long as Probierz remains in charge, his choice was influenced by this development.
Southgate, on the other hand, was momentarily connected to the Manchester United managerial position last year. However, he suggested back in October that he planned to stay away from football for at least twelve months.
“I definitely won’t be coaching next year; I am absolutely certain about that,” Southgate stated in October.
'I have to allow myself enough time to make wise choices. After stepping away from such an extensive commitment, it’s crucial to provide both my mind and body with adequate rest.'
'I am relishing my life right now, hence no hurry. It's fortunate that numerous opportunities keep coming my way.'
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