Resigning as England Manager, Southgate is Invited to Work with ‘Archrival’

Former England Manager Gareth Southgate Invited by BBC to Join ‘Match of the Day,’ Promising Exciting Showdowns with Gary Lineker

After resigning as the England national team manager, Gareth Southgate is expected to take on a new, challenging role.

The BBC is planning to invite Southgate to become a pundit for the popular show “Match of the Day,” a move anticipated to create intriguing on-screen clashes with the show’s long-time host, Gary Lineker.

Southgate ended his eight-year tenure as England manager following the team’s defeat to Spain in the Euro 2024 final earlier this month.

During his time in charge, he managed 105 matches and led the Three Lions to two major finals, establishing himself as one of the most successful modern-day managers in English football.

The BBC’s interest in securing Southgate’s services is well-founded. He is highly regarded for his articulate communication, charm, and popularity among viewers.

A source from the BBC stated, “Gareth is eloquent, charming, and beloved by the audience. People always want to hear what he has to say.”

However, the prospect of Southgate potentially facing off on air with Gary Lineker, the long-standing host of “Match of the Day,” has sparked the most excitement among the public.

Lineker, a former England captain, has previously criticized Southgate’s tactics during the recent Euros. Specifically, Lineker described Southgate as “tactically inept” and criticized the team’s performance in the 1-1 draw with Denmark as “poor.”

Although Lineker later denied that his criticisms influenced Southgate’s decision to step down, it is clear that some differences remain between the two.

A BBC source enthusiastically noted, “There will definitely be some sparks flying between the two in the studio. Having two of England’s greatest football heroes face off every week is sure to be unmissable television.”

In the past, Southgate has worked as a pundit for ITV. Photo: Sportbible.

Inviting Southgate to “Match of the Day” is also part of the show’s 60th-anniversary celebrations. The BBC sees Southgate as an ideal replacement for former Arsenal star Ian Wright, who left the pundit team at the end of last season.

However, the BBC is not the only broadcaster interested in Southgate. ITV is also reportedly eyeing the former manager, especially since Gary Neville, one of their main pundits during the recent Euros, has returned to Sky Sports.

Southgate is no stranger to punditry. After being dismissed by Middlesbrough in 2009, he appeared on ITV alongside Roy Keane and Lee Dixon, providing commentary on FA Cup and Champions League matches. This experience will undoubtedly be a significant asset if Southgate decides to accept the BBC’s offer.