German football manager Thomas Tuchel is reportedly negotiating to take the reins as England’s national team manager, according to Bild.
This development comes as a surprise, given Tuchel’s strong links to the Manchester United job.
The 51-year-old former Chelsea and Bayern Munich boss Tuchel has been United’s favorite to replace under-pressure Erik ten Hag at Old Trafford.
During a seven-hour meeting between co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe and United chiefs, Tuchel was identified as the preferred candidate to take over.
However, it seems the German tactician would rather find interest in managing a national team having turned down Manchester United’s offer.
Meanwhile, following Gareth Southgate’s departure after the Euro 2024 final loss to Spain, Lee Carsley has taken charge on an interim basis.
However, Thursday’s 2-1 defeat to Greece has cast doubt on his chances of securing the role permanently.
FA requirements for the England managerial job
The Football Association insists it is conducting a thorough, ongoing, and confidential process to appoint Southgate’s successor, with no formal interviews held yet.
Intriguingly, the governing body has outlined seven key criteria for Gareth Southgate’s successor, which include a Uefa Pro License, significant experience in English football, and a Strong track record in the Premier League and/or international competitions.
Others include exceptional leadership skills, Understanding of the international football environment, Experience identifying, managing, and developing English-qualified players, and the ability to promote a positive and inclusive team culture
Thomas Tuchel Contenders For The England Job
Eddie Howe and Graham Potter have also been linked to the England job, while Manchester City’s Pep Guardiola was reportedly the FA’s top choice for next summer.
Why Thomas Tuchel Could Land The England Job
The highly sought-after German manager, Thomas Tuchel, boasts an impressive trophy cabinet and a remarkable win percentage across his tenure.
Tuchel’s managerial journey began with Augsburg II in 2007-2008, where he achieved a 58.82% win rate with 20 victories in 34 matches.
At Mainz 05 between 2009 to 2014, the German boss secured 72 wins in 184 games, earning a 39.13% win rate and establishing himself as a promising young manager.
Furthermore, Tuchel’s stint at Borussia Dortmund between 2015-2017 yielded 67 wins in 107 matches (62.62% win rate) and his first major trophy, the DFB Pokal.
At Paris Saint-Germain (2018-2020), Tuchel won an impressive 95 games out of 127 (74.8% win rate), claiming six titles including two Ligue 1, Coupe de France, Coupe de la Ligue and two Trophee des Champions.
Also, Tuchel’s brief tenure in England at Chelsea (2021-2022) saw 60 wins in 100 matches (60% win rate), with three prestigious titles: the Champions League, Super Cup, and Club World Cup.
Most recently, Tuchel led Bayern Munich (2023-2024) to 37 wins in 61 games (60.66% win rate), securing the Bundesliga title.
Meanwhile, in 2022, Tuchel expressed openness to managing a national team, stating, “Yeah, why not? I would consider if it is the right team and if it has the potential to win trophies like the World Cup and the Euros.”
Overall, Tuchel’s impressive managerial record and trophy haul make him a highly attractive candidate for the England managerial position.
Tuchel’s potential appointment as England manager would deal a significant blow to Manchester United’s hopes of securing his services.
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