Former England manager Sir Gareth Southgate says he chose not to take up a role as a World Cup pundit because he believed it would not be “helpful” to the team’s chances. Speaking about his decision, Southgate said he preferred to “stay out of the way,” implying he wanted to avoid any potential impact his commentary or public presence could have on England’s performance. Both outlets report that his comments focus on the motivation behind the refusal rather than on any specific broadcaster or offer. The statements present Southgate as prioritising the team’s interests, with the underlying reasoning that participating in punditry during the tournament could be distracting or otherwise unhelpful. No alternative role or replacement arrangement is described in the reports. Overall, the accounts agree that Southgate’s stance is driven by a judgment about what would best support England during the World Cup.