Eric Ramsay, the current head coach of Minnesota United, has emerged as a potential candidate for the managerial vacancy at Southampton, sources indicate. Southampton is currently in the early stages of searching for a coach to guide them through the Championship next season. The south coast club suffered a dismal Premier League campaign, managing only 11 points from 34 matches. Ramsay is reportedly among several names being considered by the Saints as they strategize for an immediate comeback to the top division.
Ramsay, 33, is highly regarded within English football circles. His career includes spells as a player development coach at Chelsea before moving to Manchester United, where he worked in the same capacity under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and also assisted the Welsh national team.
Upon joining Minnesota in February 2024, he became the youngest permanent head coach in the history of Major League Soccer. In his inaugural season, he successfully led the team to a sixth-place finish in the Western Conference, earning a spot in the conference semifinals. Nine games into the current 2025 campaign, Minnesota United holds third position in the Western Conference standings.
Ramsay has previously stated his openness to coaching opportunities beyond the English-speaking world should he depart the MLS club. His fluency in Spanish and French would undoubtedly be advantageous in this regard. Speaking to the BBC in February, he remarked: “Sometimes the coaches who arrive at the top level in England are those who have been across various countries. Their status is safer because there are more jobs available. It feels a little bit more open. I had that in mind when I went to MLS.”
He added: “It is a really interesting one and riles up lots of debate. I genuinely feel the level of coaching in England is in a really impressive place. Maybe coming back from MLS, there are a few more trodden paths to other places than there are from the Championship.”
A move to Southampton, however, would represent a significant career step for Ramsay. Despite their challenging season following promotion, the Saints are expected to be strong favorites for promotion from the Championship. The situation might also present an opportunity for a squad overhaul, particularly if promising young talents like Tyler Dibbling and Mateus Fernandes leave St. Mary`s.
Simon Rusk is currently serving as interim head coach at Southampton, marking his second temporary spell this season. Rusk first took charge after Russell Martin, the manager who achieved promotion, was dismissed in December. Ivan Juric, who succeeded Martin, departed earlier this month after recording just two victories and 13 defeats in his 16 matches at the helm.
