No, Gareth Southgate is not the longest-serving manager of the England national football team.
England's Longest-Serving Manager
The distinction of England's longest-serving manager belongs to Walter Winterbottom. While perhaps not a household name for many today, Winterbottom was England's first dedicated manager and held the position for an impressive period spanning 16 years, from 1946 to 1962.
His tenure is notable not only for its length but also for his unique achievement of being the only England boss to have been in charge for four World Cups.
Comparing Managerial Tenures
While Gareth Southgate has had a significant and impactful tenure since his appointment in 2016, his time in charge does not surpass the longevity of Walter Winterbottom. To illustrate the difference, here's a comparison of their tenures:
| Manager | Start Date | End Date | Duration (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Walter Winterbottom | 1946 | 1962 | 16 years |
| Gareth Southgate | 2016 | Present | 8 years (as of 2024) |
Gareth Southgate's Tenure
Gareth Southgate began his role as England manager in 2016. Since then, he has guided the national team through several major tournaments, including the 2018 FIFA World Cup (reaching the semi-finals) and UEFA Euro 2020 (reaching the final). Despite these notable achievements and a considerable period in the role, his time as manager does not yet exceed Walter Winterbottom's record.
For more information on the history of England's national team managers and their tenures, you can refer to sources like The Standard's article on England's longest-serving managers.
