Gareth Southgate Installed as New Favourite for Championship Manager Job After Latest News

Gareth Southgate has emerged as a leading candidate for a Championship managerial role, specifically at Leicester City, following recent developments at the club. Bookmakers have installed the former England boss at 4/1 odds to replace Marti Cifuentes, tying him with Dean Smith as joint-favourite according to TalkSport Bet and others.[3]

Leicester, languishing in 14th place and just six points from the playoffs, parted ways with Cifuentes after a dismal run despite high expectations from his QPR success. The Foxes' shoestring budget and disgruntled fanbase add pressure on the next appointment. Interim coach and club legend Andy King, part of the 2015/16 Premier League-winning side, sits at 6/1, valued for his player rapport.[3]

Southgate, who resigned after England's Euro 2024 final loss, brings Premier League experience from managing Middlesbrough (2006-2009), though they were relegated in his final season.[1][4] Recently linked to Premier League jobs like Crystal Palace (5/1-6/1 to replace Oliver Glasner amid unrest over Marc Guehi's sale)[1][6] and even Manchester United as a potential Ruben Amorim successor per Joe Cole,[2] Southgate has expressed interest in club football.[4]

In a recent interview, Southgate lamented eroded managerial authority due to sporting directors' influence, citing 2026 sackings at Chelsea (Enzo Maresca), United (Amorim), and Real Madrid (Xabi Alonso). He advocates empowering managers while embracing modern structures.[4]

Other Leicester contenders include Steven Gerrard (5/1), Russell Martin (new favourite post-Southampton promotion), and Nigel Pearson (16/1).[3] Southgate's odds shift reflects "latest news" of Leicester's instability, positioning him ideally for a Championship return to rebuild his club credentials before eyeing Premier League opportunities.

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