The Most Famous Unemployed Coach: Tuchel Faces a Tough Choice Between Two Options

England National Team or Manchester United?

Tuchel’s early dismissal from Bayern seemed to be a hit to his reputation. Yes, such parties are becoming more common, but they usually don't affect elite coaches. In this case, however, it was portrayed as if Thomas was the main villain: first, rumors surfaced that the German lost the locker room and clashed with experienced players, and all of this was compounded by poor results, requiring a rescue operation. Bayern's management stepped in and announced that the coach would leave in the summer and that the situation was under control.

Yes, Thomas did indeed fail in the league. But competing with last season's unstoppable Bayer was tough. Such stories happen once in a few decades, so we can admit that the coach was just unlucky in this regard. However, he had a fantastic Champions League run: despite losing the locker room and internal conflicts, he led Bayern to the semifinals, where they were on par with Real Madrid—the eventual tournament winner. Who knows what might have happened had Joselu not scored in added time in the second match. Tuchel’s team was ready for the final, but that's already history.

Interestingly, Bayern later tried to reverse the situation and keep the coach. Negotiations even took place but to no avail. Tuchel left the club and entered the free agent market.

What about Tuchel and Manchester United?

In England, people are convinced that Thomas is one of the top candidates to replace Erik ten Hag. Rumors about this first appeared in the summer. According to the Daily Mail, the German coach met with Manchester United’s owner in Monaco to discuss a potential role, though the conversation was more consultative. After all, there was no talk of an inevitable dismissal of the Dutch coach back then. However, the source noted that Tuchel expressed dissatisfaction with the club's transfer structure and stated that he wouldn’t join the club solely because of that.

In September-October, a new wave of rumors emerged. Manchester United has decided to part ways with their current coach and is actively searching for a replacement. According to journalist Christian Falk, Tuchel is the leading candidate and is allegedly ready to consider the club's offer, should it come. He may also be willing to make some compromises. But as of now, there have been no concrete discussions.

Interestingly, the media has already begun to support Tuchel’s candidacy. For example, former Manchester United goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel said the German is almost the perfect choice for the club. Several other veterans have spoken in a similar vein. It seems the appointment is being prepared, but it's unclear when it will happen.

What about the England national team?

After Manchester United took a wait-and-see approach with Tuchel, rumors emerged that he could soon be appointed the England national team coach. Lee Carsley has likely indicated he’s not ready to take on the full-time head coach role, so a replacement is being sought. And it seems Thomas is one of the top candidates.

According to Welt, preliminary talks have already occurred between both parties, and some insiders have added that the German is interested in the job. However, he has never coached a national team before. There has been no official confirmation of contacts from either the FA or Tuchel’s representatives, so this might be speculation from people hoping the coach gets the position.

If Tuchel is appointed by Manchester United or the England national team, it would be a win for both organizations. During his time at PSG and Chelsea, Thomas demonstrated that he is a systems-oriented coach and a crisis manager capable of delivering quick results. Both teams need exactly that right now.

Published by Patrick Jane
13.10.2024