Thomas Tuchel has confirmed his departure from Bayern Munich this summer, dispelling rumors that he might reconsider and remain at the German club.
Tuchel initially announced his intention to leave in February, amid growing pressure on the former Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain manager. Since his announcement, Bayern Munich has been actively searching for his successor, with names like Xabi Alonso and Julian Nagelsmann being linked to the position.
However, the club has struggled to find the ideal replacement, which had sparked speculation that Tuchel might continue his role next season.
Ahead of Bayern’s upcoming match against Hoffenheim, Tuchel reiterated his decision to leave, stating, “This is my final press conference from Säbener Strasse.
Our agreement from February still stands. We spoke about it again recently, but we did not reach an agreement.” This clear statement underscores his commitment to leaving, despite the club’s efforts to potentially retain him.
Tuchel’s departure has opened the door to various speculations about his next move. Shortly after his announcement, reports emerged suggesting that Tuchel is hopeful for an approach from Manchester United, should they decide to part ways with their current manager, Erik ten Hag.
The German coach is viewed as a potential candidate for United, especially with Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Ineos now controlling sporting operations at Old Trafford.
Tuchel has expressed a keen interest in returning to the Premier League. The 50-year-old left Chelsea in September 2022 and has often spoken fondly of his time in English football. Before Bayern’s Champions League semi-final clash with Real Madrid last month,
Tuchel remarked, “This is a tricky road where you lead me. I’d rather not answer. But it is no secret that I loved it in England and I loved it in the Premier League. It was a very, very special time in England, and I remember it very well.” His admiration for English football and the Premier League suggests that a return could be on the horizon.
Bayern Munich’s season has been far from successful, and Tuchel’s departure comes at a time of significant disappointment for the club.
After losing to Real Madrid in the Champions League semi-final earlier this month, Bayern will finish the season without a major trophy for the first time since the 2011/12 season.
They missed out on the Bundesliga title to Bayer Leverkusen and currently sit third in the league, two points ahead of Stuttgart with one game remaining.
Additionally, Bayern was knocked out of the DFB-Pokal in the second round by third-tier Saarbrücken and lost the DFL-Supercup final to RB Leipzig.
Despite these setbacks, there have been individual successes within the team. Harry Kane, who joined Bayern from Tottenham last summer, has had an impressive season, scoring 44 goals in 45 matches. However, these individual achievements have not been enough to secure any major trophies for Bayern this season.
