Gareth Southgate has revealed he declined offers to work as a television pundit for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, choosing instead to keep his distance from the England team he led for eight years.
It is the first World Cup since Southgate stepped down as England manager following defeat in the Euro 2024 final. He was succeeded by Thomas Tuchel, who now leads the Three Lions into their Group L opener against Croatia on Wednesday.
Instead of returning to the spotlight in a broadcasting role, Southgate said he made a conscious decision to stay “out of the way” to avoid any distractions for the squad.
"This time I took a conscious decision not to do the TV. I didn't think it would be helpful for me to be talking about the team," Southgate said in an Instagram video wishing England well.
"I don't want anything to be misconstrued or thrown at them in press conferences. So, best for me to keep out of the way."
Southgate took England to back‑to‑back European Championship finals (2021 and 2024) as well as a World Cup semi‑final (2018) and quarter‑final (2022). Though he could not end the country's 60‑year wait for a major trophy, he backed Tuchel’s side to go all the way.
"They are ready to win. I am looking forward to watching. I hope everybody has a great one, and I will be staying out of the way."
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