‘I loved it’ - Thomas Tuchel hints at next managerial move amid Man Utd interest

Thomas Tuchel has hinted he would be interested in a return to the Premier League, amid speculation that he is the prime candidate for the Manchester United manager’s job.

ManchesterWorld reported in March that Tuchel was among those being considered by the Red Devils if Erik ten Hag departs at the end of the season. That is looking increasingly likely following Monday’s 4-0 capitulation at Crystal Palace.

With United on course for their lowest Premier League finish and lowest-ever points tally this season, rumours have increased that Ten Hag will be sacked at the end of the campaign. The Telegraph reported on Tuesday that Tuchel is in the frame to take over at Old Trafford, while the Daily Mail claimed the German is keen on the role.

Tuchel was asked ahead of the Champions League clash between Bayern Munich and Real Madrid about the possibility of a Premier League return at some point, and all but said he wants another shot in the English top flight.

“I’d rather not answer,” he told TNT Sport. “But it is no secret that I loved it at Chelsea, I loved it in England and I loved it in the Premier League for sure. It was a very, very special time in England.”

During his time in the Premier League, Tuchel guided Chelsea to Champions League glory in 2021 and three domestic cup finals. The Blues finished third in Tuchel’s only full season in charge at Stamford Bridge during a turbulent period as Roman Abramovich left the club.

The 50-year-old’s coaching CV includes lifting silverware at Borussia Dortmund, Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern, and should the latter win at the Bernabeu on Wednesday night, Tuchel will manage in a Champions League final with a third different club.

Other candidates for the United manager’s role - assuming it becomes available - include Graham Potter, Roberto De Zerbi and Gareth Southgate.