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Tuchel Eyes Premier League Return Amid Barcelona Interest

Tuchel at Bayern Munich
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Bayern Munich manager Thomas Tuchel is reportedly eyeing a return to the Premier League this summer, despite interest from Barcelona. Sources have informed ESPN that Tuchel, who is set to depart Bayern at the end of the season, prefers a managerial role in England.

Barcelona have identified Tuchel as a potential candidate to succeed Xavi Hernandez, who is also expected to leave his post this summer. However, Tuchel’s preference for a return to the Premier League remains strong, given his successful stint with Chelsea from January 2021 to September 2022.

While Tuchel hasn’t ruled out the possibility of joining Barcelona if an offer materializes, concerns about the club’s stability, particularly regarding transfer funds and squad strengthening, have given him pause.

Barcelona are also considering other candidates, including former Mexico international Rafael Márquez and former Germany coach Hansi Flick.

Furthermore, Tuchel would be open to discussions with Manchester United if a managerial vacancy arises. Current United boss Erik ten Hag is facing pressure after a disappointing season, compounded by recent poor results, including a dramatic collapse against Coventry City in the FA Cup semifinal.

Sources indicate that United are yet to make a decision on Ten Hag’s future, but support for Tuchel is growing within the club, especially among new co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s team. Representatives have expressed interest in staying informed about Tuchel’s potential availability.

Despite Bayern’s success in reaching the Champions League semifinals under Tuchel’s guidance this season, their domestic campaign has been underwhelming, relinquishing the German title for the first time since 2012 and exiting the German cup in the second round.

In February, it was announced that Tuchel would depart Bayern at the end of the season. Efforts to persuade Julian Nagelsmann to return to the club have been unsuccessful, with the 36-year-old opting to extend his contract with the Germany national team until 2026.

As Tuchel’s future hangs in the balance, his potential move to the Premier League or Barcelona adds intrigue to the upcoming managerial merry-go-round in European football.

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