Manchester United are considering Thomas Tuchel as a potential replacement for current manager Erik ten Hag, as the club grapples with a poor start to the season, Soccernet.football reports.
Tuchel, who was approached by United over the summer, remains unattached after his departure from Bayern Munich last season, making him a viable option for the Red Devils.
According to reports, Tuchel’s availability is a key factor in his consideration, especially since other candidates admired by the United hierarchy are tied to existing contracts with their respective clubs.
Senior United officials are expected to hold a meeting in London on Tuesday to discuss the managerial situation, while Ten Hag anticipates further talks in the coming days.
“So I don’t have any idea that is different,” Ten Hag said following United’s goalless draw with Aston Villa. “Because they should have told me. We communicate very open, very transparent. I speak continuously with them… every week, I would say every day we talk.”
United’s dismal form, with just three wins in 11 matches this season, sees them languishing in 14th place in the Premier League. Their scoring troubles are evident, with only five goals in seven league games, a tally bettered only by Southampton, who sit 19th.
Tuchel, 51, has an impressive resume, having won the Champions League with Chelsea and league titles with Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich.
His familiarity with the Premier League, coupled with his recent success, makes him an attractive prospect. However, longevity has been an issue for the German coach, whose stints at Bayern and Chelsea both lasted around 18 months.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe, Manchester United’s co-chairman, met Tuchel in the summer to discuss the possibility of a managerial change. When asked about his confidence in Ten Hag last week, Ratcliffe dodged the question, stating, “I don’t want to answer that question.”
Despite their recent backing of Ten Hag, United’s decision-makers, including chief executive Omar Berrada and sporting director Dan Ashworth, may be rethinking their position as the club faces one of its worst starts in 35 years.