Gareth Southgate has ruled out taking over from Erik ten Hag at Manchester United in the near future.

There has been intense speculation swirling around the Theatre of Dreams concerning the position of the Red Devils' head coach as October's international schedule begins.

Man United have endured their worst-ever start to a Premier League campaign during the opening weeks of 2024-25, collecting just eight points from their first seven matches.

As a result, the Red Devils are languishing down in 14th place in the top-flight standings, with their only league wins coming against Fulham and newly-promoted Southampton.

Ten Hag's troops have also stuttered on the international scene, failing to win versus either Dutch side FC Twente or Portuguese giants Porto in the League Phase of the Europa League.

"I am certain of that" - Southgate shuts down Man United links

With Man United performing poorly on the pitch in recent times, there have been reports that former England manager Southgate could be a candidate to take over from Ten Hag in the near future.

Speaking to the European Club Association, the 54-year-old squashed any rumours, stating "I will not coach in the next year, for sure. I'm certain of that."

"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."

Southgate has been out of employment since leaving his post as England manager following a summer of trials and tribulations in Germany at Euro 2024.

The former Middlesbrough boss led the Three Lions to two European Championship finals but was unable to guide the country to their second-ever major honour.

Who are the alternatives to Southgate for Man United?

With Southgate ruling out an imminent return to football management, Man United will need to look elsewhere if they wish to replace Ten Hag in the near future.

There have been numerous reports over the international break of the Red Devils supposedly eyeing up a move for a Champions League-winning manager in Thomas Tuchel.

However, it is understood that Man United have not made an approach for the German, who is out of work following his departure from Bayern Munich in May.

Should Ten Hag survive the international break, he will lead his troops out for a Premier League clash with Brentford at Old Trafford on October 19.