Tuchel presents a more formidable task for England's troubled titans
Manchester United is currently facing issues on the football field, with jokes directed at the "Red Devils" due to their poor performance. Coach Erik ten Hag is under scrutiny following a sluggish start to the season, leading to speculations about potential replacements. Among these names, Thomas Tuchel is gaining traction.
According to reports, Tuchel is a potential candidate to take over from the pressure-stricken ten Hag, should the Netherlands coach exit. A meeting with the former Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund manager is expected, as suggested by the German newspaper "I". Tuchel enjoys significant backing within Manchester United's boardroom due to his accomplishments.
Ten Hag is under intense pressure due to Manchester United's ongoing sporting struggles. Currently placed in the middle of the Premier League, they've suffered three losses in their first six league games, including a 0-3 defeat against Tottenham Hotspur at home, which was met with derision from the opposing fans. Their performances in the Europa League have also been disappointing, with two draws against Twente Enschede and FC Porto.
Southgate named as alternative
Co-owner Jim Ratcliffe declined to provide a definitive answer when questioned about ten Hag's future by BBC. Ratcliffe alluded to the fact that the sporting hierarchy is responsible for such decisions, stating, "I don't want to answer that question." If ten Hag departs, Ratcliffe reportedly favors Gareth Southgate, the former English national coach, as a replacement.
Tuchel has been jobless since leaving Munich in the summer. Despite this, he maintains a strong reputation in England, particularly for leading Chelsea to Champions League victory in 2021. There were whispers at the end of last season about Manchester United looking to swap ten Hag with Tuchel, but allegedly no agreement was reached then.
Ten Hag helped his team secure victory in the FA Cup final in May, leading to an extension of his contract until mid-2026. However, a loss against Aston Villa on Sunday could potentially cut Ten Hag's tenure short. His assistant, Ruud van Nistelrooy, is speculated to be a contender for an interim coaching role.
Amidst these speculations, Manchester United's co-owner Jim Ratcliffe has named Gareth Southgate as an alternative potential replacement for Coach Erik ten Hag if he were to leave.
If the situation necessitates, Manchester United could look towards Thomas Tuchel, who currently enjoys support within their boardroom, following his successful coaching stint at Chelsea, leading them to the Champions League victory in 2021.
