LONDON — Five months after resigning from his role as the head coach of the England national soccer team, Gareth Southgate is still contemplating his next steps.


He has suggested that his future may not involve soccer at all.


In a thoughtful post shared on LinkedIn, Southgate expressed that he is on a quest to find his next “purpose” following his tenure leading the England team from 2016 to 2024, a period marked by immense pressure and public scrutiny regarding his every statement, whether about soccer or other topics.


“This higher purpose is what provided me with direction, gave my life structure, and made it more fulfilling—something hard to replicate,” Southgate shared on Tuesday.


He emphasized, “This is why I am not confining my future options solely to remaining in football coaching.”


After guiding England to the European Championship final in July, Southgate became a candidate for the managerial position at Manchester United, thanks to his established connections with several board members. However, the club ultimately opted to hire Ruben Amorim following the dismissal of Erik ten Hag last month.


In the meantime, Southgate has stepped back from the public eye as England transitions to new leadership, initially moving forward with interim coach Lee Carsley and, starting January 1, new permanent coach Thomas Tuchel.


During this time, Southgate has directed much of his attention towards his selected charitable organizations.


“Having spent eight years in one of the most visible roles in world football, I am taking deliberate time to reflect on my experiences and consider my future,” he remarked.


“I feel at ease,” he continued, “embracing this phase of ‘exploration’ without having all the answers. I’m following the advice I would impart to any young individual who lacks a distinct career path: Keep learning, expand your network, seek various life experiences, and when you determine what’s next, remember that there is no absolute right or wrong—just different avenues to pursue.”