The Bayern Munich board are convinced that Thomas Tuchel refused their offers to stay at the club because he had already secured an agreement to join Manchester United, according to a report.
Bayern decided back in February to part ways with Tuchel at the season's end. Despite his reputation as a serial winner, the German manager's tactics and character faced ongoing criticism.
Initially, Tuchel's departure was opted for due to the Bavarians' underperformance in the Bundesliga, where they fell behind Bayer Leverkusen in the title race.
However, a fruitless search for a suitable successor led the club to reconsider their decision to show the former Chelsea boss the door.
Bayern attempted to persuade Tuchel to stay thereafter, but their efforts were unsuccessful, as the 50-year-old once again confirmed that he wished to depart the Allianz Arena at the end of the 2023-24 campaign.
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Bayern convinced Tuchel has agreed to become the next manager of Manchester United
According to Bild journalist Christian Falk, Bayern Munich board members are now adamant that Tuchel allowed negotiations over fresh terms at the club to collapse as he had already been given assurances about securing the Manchester United job.
Tuchel has openly expressed a desire to return to Premier League management, having previously impressed in England with Chelsea.
Widespread reports in recent weeks have suggested that United are considering their managerial options after Erik ten Hag only managed to guide the Red Devils to an eighth-placed finish in the Premier League.
With Jason Wilcox appointed as the Red Devils' new technical director, the club is believed to be preparing an in-depth post-season assessment, including whether Ten Hag should remain at the helm after a difficult season.
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Man United preparing for summer overhaul
Some of the big names that have been linked to the managerial role at Old Trafford include Mauricio Pochettino, Kieran McKenna, Gareth Southgate and Thomas Frank.
However, it remains to be seen if Sir Jim Ratcliffe and co continue to push ahead in their search for a new manager after the Red Devils pulled off an against-the-odds victory over league champions Manchester City in the FA Cup final on Saturday afternoon.
The FA Cup triumph not only means that Ten Hag has won two trophies in as many seasons but also guarantees United continental football next season via the Europa League.
Bayern, on the other hand, are believed to be on the cusp of confirming current Burnley boss Vincent Kompany as their new manager for the 2024-25 season.
Devesh Jaganath
