Thomas Tuchel Declines Manchester United Managerial Role Amid Erik ten Hag Uncertainty

Thomas Tuchel has reportedly informed Manchester United’s minority shareholder, Sir Jim Ratcliffe, that he is not interested in becoming the new head coach of the 20-time English champions.

This development comes as the club concludes its end-of-season review, with a decision on Erik ten Hag’s future expected next week.

United’s disappointing eighth-place finish in the Premier League last season marked their worst-ever performance in the current format, despite Ten Hag securing an FA Cup victory. With Tuchel available after departing Bayern Munich, he was considered Ratcliffe’s top choice to replace Ten Hag if a change were made.

However, The Sun reports that Tuchel has declined the opportunity, citing a desire to take a break from management after a challenging season.

Tuchel, who previously led Chelsea to success, is not in the running for the position at Old Trafford.

Ten Hag, who has won trophies in each of his two seasons at United, attributes the team’s struggles in the 2023-24 season to severe injury problems.

INEOS has been conducting an end-of-season review since the FA Cup final, with Ten Hag currently on holiday and several players preparing for Euro 2024 and Copa America.

Other candidates linked to the potential managerial vacancy include England’s Gareth Southgate, though his commitment to the national team until after the European Championship makes his appointment unlikely.

Mauricio Pochettino, available after leaving Chelsea, and Roberto De Zerbi, who recently exited Brighton & Hove Albion, are also considered strong contenders.

Additionally, Graham Potter is admired by Ratcliffe but has reportedly fallen down the list of preferred candidates.

As United prepares for the upcoming season, the decision on Ten Hag’s future and potential replacements will be crucial for the club’s planning and success.