Former England head coach Gareth Southgate has officially returned to work, not as a coach but as the host of a new BBC program called One Of A Kind.
After stepping down as England’s manager in 2024, Southgate surprisingly chose a completely different career path. Instead of continuing his coaching career, he decided to take on the role of hosting a podcast-style show where he interviews leaders and successful figures from various fields. This marks Southgate’s first official job after eight years with the “Three Lions.”
A source from the BBC revealed: “The Beeb is thrilled to appoint Gareth as the host of this inaugural program. It’s truly a major achievement. He will interview accomplished individuals from diverse industries, shifting focus from sports to mainstream inspirational stories.
Gareth is a thoughtful man, and the producers believe he will excel at deep conversations with his guests. He will peel back layers to reveal fascinating insights about their experiences.”
According to The Sun, Southgate will earn about £50,000 for this role, but finances are not a major concern as he currently owns assets worth around £10 million. The 54-year-old former defender hinted that his next job might be outside football and confirmed he has no plans to return to coaching.
At the 2025 PFA Awards, Southgate openly shared: “Not right now, I’m really enjoying my life. I have some business interests, I’m halfway through writing a book, I do some leadership-related work, I still work with young coaches, and I’m trying to help as much as I can with the crisis we’re facing with young men. I also have time to enjoy my life, and yes, I am enjoying it.”
Southgate’s coaching career is highlighted by leading England to two Euro finals in 2020 and 2024, as well as the 2018 World Cup semifinals and 2022 quarterfinals. Over 102 matches, he guided the “Three Lions” to 61 wins, 24 draws, and 17 losses. However, he left the team just two days after the Euro 2024 defeat to Spain, before Thomas Tuchel took over.
Amid rumors of him taking the Manchester United managerial position, Southgate’s move into a new field shows he is enjoying freedom and seeking different experiences. His BBC role promises to open a new chapter in his career, where he is no longer confined to football but explores inspiring conversations in depth.