After eight successful years as the manager of the England national team, Gareth Southgate has announced his departure following the team's loss to Spain in the Euro 2024 final. Speculation has now begun to surround the 53-year-old, with rumors suggesting that he could be a potential candidate for the United States Men's National Team (USMNT), who recently fired head coach Gregg Berhalter.

In a statement released by the English Football Association (FA), Southgate expressed his pride in representing and managing England, but also emphasized the need for change and a new chapter in his career. Southgate was contracted with the national team until December, however, he chose to leave prematurely, despite reports indicating that the FA wanted him to stay through the 2026 World Cup.

During his tenure as manager, Southgate led the England squad to back-to-back Euro Championship finals and a World Cup quarterfinal and semifinal. His achievements and reputation have attracted interest from pundits, fans, and former USMNT players, who believe he could be the right person to revive the struggling American team.

Former USMNT star goalkeeper and current NBC Sports analyst, Tim Howard, penned a column in the Daily Mail advocating for Southgate or former Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino to take over the USMNT helm. Emphasizing the urgency to get the hiring right, Howard noted the disappointment of Jurgen Klopp declining the opportunity.

Paul Tenorio, a senior reporter for The Athletic Soccer, also highlighted Southgate's potential as a candidate, pointing to his relationship with U.S. Soccer Sporting Director Matt Crocker. Furthermore, USMNT Thoughts echoed similar sentiments, mentioning Crocker's familiarity with Southgate and the importance of finding a suitable replacement for Berhalter.

The USMNT has experienced several setbacks in recent years, with the team failing to qualify for the 2018 FIFA World Cup and suffering a heartbreaking Round of 16 exit in 2022. With the 2026 World Cup approaching, the United States is determined to find a manager who can guide them effectively as hosts of the tournament.

While names like David Wagner and Steve Cherundolo are being considered from Europe, domestic candidates such as Philadelphia Union head coach Jim Curtin and MLS Cup-winning coach Wilfried Nancy are also strong contenders for the USMNT job.

As Southgate's departure leaves a void in England's managerial position, sources have indicated that Eddie Howe, Graham Potter, and Mauricio Pochettino are front-runners to take over the reins of the Three Lions.

The future of both Southgate and the USMNT coaching position remains uncertain, but as the search for a new leader intensifies, the soccer world eagerly awaits the potential blending of Southgate's expertise with the ambitious American squad.