Shock name confirms interest in becoming England manager and replacing Gareth Southgate

Former Liverpool and Real Madrid boss Rafael Benitez has put his hat in the ring to replace Gareth Southgate after his eventual departure.

Southgate is preparing to lead England into his fourth major tournament in charge at Euro 2024, having reached the final of Euro 2020 before losing to Italy at Wembley.

His contract with the senior team expires in December 2024, although reports claim that the FA are keen to extend that if England perform strongly in Germany next summer.

But the Daily Mail claimed last year that the FA are making preparations in the event of Southgate's departure, with Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola seen as the 'dream' candidate.

The likes of Jurgen Klopp and Jose Mourinho may also be available, while Thomas Tuchel, who was linked with the England job after the 2022 World Cup, is currently under pressure at Bayern Munich.

Elsewhere, England U21 head coach Lee Carsley is also one of the favourites to take the role after guiding the young Three Lions to the U21 European Championship last summer.

When asked by The Athletic about whether he would be willing to manage England or his home country of Spain, Benitez indicated he would be keen.

He said: "That is always a dangerous question as there is a manager who is doing the job well. I even have friends on Southgate's staff - we have a very good relationship.

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"But, thinking about the future, I'd like to have a national team capable of competing for trophies. I suffer a lot with defeats.

"When you are in a team which does not lose so often, you get used to competing to win things. So I would like to have a national team capable of achieving things - but again, all in the future."

Benitez is currently in charge of La Liga side Celta Vigo - and confirmed that his immediate ambition is to guide them towards the European places.

But he added: "Then, for the future, maybe international management, a chance to be at a World Cup or European Championship."

Topics: Rafael Benitez, England, Gareth Southgate, Football

Ryan Smart

Live in constant hope of the top flight as a Preston North End fan. Written in the past for SPORF, GiveMeSport and more.