Thomas Tuchel Opts Out of Manchester United Managerial Race

Thomas Tuchel has formally removed himself from contention for the managerial position at Manchester United. Despite many considering him a potential candidate to succeed Erik ten Hag, Tuchel has made it clear that he is not pursuing the role. While United conducts a post-season review, they have not yet reached a definitive decision regarding Ten Hag’s future at Old Trafford.

Reports suggest that Tuchel has engaged in discussions with United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe in France. However, the 50-year-old German, who boasts managerial experience with Bayern Munich, Chelsea, Borussia Dortmund and Paris St-Germain, is opting for a hiatus. He decided this following his departure from Bayern at the end of the previous season.

Meanwhile, United continues to explore other managerial options. Among the names linked with the position are Mauricio Pochettino, the former Chelsea and Tottenham boss, as well as Thomas Frank from Brentford and Graham Potter. Another prominent candidate is England manager Gareth Southgate, who has been the subject of significant speculation and was spotted at Sir Dave Brailsford’s 60th birthday celebration earlier this year.

However, Southgate’s commitment to the England national team, coupled with his existing contract with the Football Association until the end of the year, presents a potential obstacle to any immediate move to United, particularly given the scheduling clash with Euro 2024.