Thomas Tuchel declines Manchester United job, opts for break from football

Thomas Tuchel has declined the chance to manage Manchester United, citing a need for time away from football. Despite being identified as the top candidate to replace Erik ten Hag, Tuchel's decision to step back removes him from the candidate pool. Ratcliffe is conducting a season review before making a final decision, considering other potential replacements like Gareth Southgate and Graham Potter.

Thomas Tuchel has declined the opportunity to manage Manchester United, opting instead for a break from football. The former Chelsea boss recently held two meetings with United’s owner, Sir Jim Ratcliffe, who had identified him as the top target to replace Erik ten Hag. Despite United’s interest, Tuchel, who left Bayern Munich in the summer, expressed his need for time away from management.

Tuchel outlined his plans to address United’s recent challenges, including strategies to optimize Jadon Sancho’s performance, and cited his success with players like Antonio Rudiger. However, his decision to step back removes him from the candidate pool if ten Hag is dismissed. Ten Hag, who led United to an FA Cup victory over City, faces an uncertain future following a disappointing eighth-place league finish and an extensive injury list.

Ratcliffe, aware of ten Hag’s support among fans, is conducting a season review before making a final decision. Other potential replacements include England boss Gareth Southgate, who is focused on Euro 2024, and Graham Potter, who has been unemployed since leaving Chelsea and Brighton. Ratcliffe has previously shown interest in hiring Potter for Nice.