If Thomas Tuchel accepts the role of England’s next manager after rumored discussions with the FA, he may not be available to replace Erik ten Hag at Manchester United anytime soon.
However, speculation suggests INEOS and Sir Jim Ratcliffe have another top candidate in mind for the Old Trafford job.
Despite Ten Hag surviving a recent six-hour meeting in London with key decision-makers, including Ratcliffe, Joel Glazer, and Sir Dave Brailsford, his position remains under scrutiny, with only seven wins in United’s last 30 Premier League and European matches.
Should United decide to part ways with Ten Hag soon, Tuchel is considered the favorite to take over. Tuchel, who left Bayern Munich in the summer, previously held talks with Ratcliffe in Monaco, but they reportedly ended without an agreement. Ratcliffe, after his £1.3 billion investment in United, is said to have another preference in mind.
Earlier reports from Foot Mercato revealed Ratcliffe’s desire to bring Zinedine Zidane to Old Trafford.
Zidane, who has been waiting for the right opportunity since leaving Real Madrid in 2021, has an impressive record with two La Liga titles and three consecutive Champions League wins.
Rumors suggest that Zidane is waiting for Didier Deschamps to step down as France manager, which may not happen soon, as Deschamps aims to lead the team into the 2026 World Cup.
If Zidane becomes available and Tuchel is no longer an option, Ratcliffe may pursue the French legend.
Meanwhile, United’s priority remains to support Ten Hag in hopes of an improvement after the October break. Without better results, his tenure may not last past November’s international break.
