Reports suggest Thomas Tuchel is eager for a Chelsea comeback, feeling he has unfinished business at Stamford Bridge, less than two years after his departure.
On Tuesday evening, Chelsea confirmed the mutual termination of Mauricio Pochettino’s contract and initiated the hunt for a new manager.
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Several candidates are being considered for Pochettino’s replacement, including former Brighton manager Roberto De Zerbi and Ipswich Town’s Kieran McKenna.
However, a return of a well-known figure is possible, as Sky Sport Germany has indicated that Tuchel is a strong contender for the position.
Tuchel, aged 50, was a notable departure under Clearlake Capital’s ownership, dismissed on their 100th day in September 2022.
Despite previous conflicts with the owners amidst significant changes, Tuchel’s tenure included winning three trophies, the Champions League among them, within 20 months.
His recent stint at Bayern Munich proved challenging, with the team finishing third in the Bundesliga. Tuchel had declared his intention to leave at the season’s end.
Bayern made a late effort to retain Tuchel, with his representative Olaf Meinking engaging in discussions with the club’s executives last week.
But, Tuchel confirmed that no agreement was found and Saturday’s 4-2 defeat to Hoffenheim was his last match: ‘There were talks, but we didn’t reach an agreement, so the decision of February still stands.’
Tuchel, who is also a potential candidate for the Manchester United position if Erik ten Hag departs, is reportedly eager to make a comeback to the Premier League. According to Sky Sport Germany, he is open to rejoining Chelsea in west London.
It’s been suggested that informal talks have occurred recently, even before the final decision on Pochettino’s tenure was made public.
Tuchel regards his previous stint at Chelsea as incomplete and envisions a possible return, although the club’s management might opt for a different direction.
Chelsea’s preference is reportedly for a youthful, innovative coach committed to an offensive, ball-control style of play, which has led to strong links with Kieran McKenna of Ipswich.
Also in consideration are Sebastian Hoeness of Stuttgart, who notably finished above Bayern Munich and Tuchel in the Bundesliga rankings, along with Girona’s Michel and Enzo Maresca of Leicester City.
