Three possible replacements for Thomas Tuchel at Bayern Munich
Bayern Munich and Thomas Tuchel are set to part ways this summer. The news broke after Bayern’s 3-2 loss to Bochum in the Bundesliga that left them trailing runaway leaders Bayer Leverkusen by eight points.
Having also lost to Leverkusen in the league and then against Lazio in the Champions League last-16 first-leg, the latest setback proved to be the last straw for the beleaguered Tuchel, who has already seen his side lose the DFL Supercup and exit the DFB Pokal too.
The prospect of a titleless campaign is very likely at this point, unless the side miraculously close the gap on Leverkusen, or go all the way in Europe. Either way, Tuchel’s departure is imminent. The club is already looking for a Thomas Tuchel replacement or a new figure to take over the role next season, and there are quite a few names in the at already.
Also Read: Bayern Munich Announces Thomas Tuchel Departure at Season End: Who Could Be the Next Manager?
1. Zinedine Zidane
Former Real Madrid manager Zinedine Zidane hasn’t taken up a managerial position anywhere since leaving the capital side in 2021. Rumors had it that he was waiting for the French national team’s offer, should Didier Deschamps depart after the 2022 FIFA World Cup. However, with Deschamps signing a contract extension until 2026, looks like Zidane will have to wait. Nonetheless, he could be seeking a new challenge somewhere else for now, and Bayern might appear a tempting prospect.
2. Xabi Alonso
The current Bayer Leverkusen man is a hot commodity in the market right now, with some big sides pursuing him. Bayern, quite unsurprisingly, is among them too. Their match with Leverkusen a few days ago was touted as an audition for Xabi Alonso. With Die Werkself prevailing 3-0 in the match, the Spaniard passed it with flying colors. Although there’s no release clause in his contract, transfer expert Fabrizio Romano revealed that he could be allowed to leave if Alonso decides to take on a new role.
3. Jurgen Klopp
Another big name on the list of next potential Bayern managers is Jurgen Klopp. After nine glorious years at Liverpool, Klopp is all set to depart Anfield this summer. In the announcement video posted by Liverpool, the German mentioned that he won’t take up a job anywhere for at least a year.
However, the former Borussia Dortmund coach can have a change of heart. Managing a side of Bayern’s ilk means greater pressure, but Klopp has proved his pedigree at the Merseyside. With the Bavarians also struggling right now, who better to revive their fortunes than the rebuilding expert himself?