Thomas Tuchel was reportedly close to being appointed Manchester United boss this summer before INEOS decided to stick by the much-maligned Erik ten Hag.
INEOS were said to be exploring a managerial change in the off-season, but Ten Hag’s FA Cup final success against rivals Manchester City is believed to have bought the Dutchman a lifeline.
But according to reports in Germany, a deal to bring ex-Chelsea man Tuchel to the club was in the works, with an agreement believed to have been close.
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It’s a case of ‘what could’ve been’ for United fans, who instead have been served up a dismal start to the campaign with Ten Hag in charge.
On the back of another dire United showing last time out, Express Sport have taken a hypothetical look at what life under Tuchel might’ve been like had he taken over from Ten Hag this summer...
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Man Utd secure signature of English ace
It’s safe to say the jury is still out on United’s summer transfer business. Despite splashing close to £200million on fresh talent, there isn’t a lot of confidence that United have actually improved their squad all that much.
Ten Hag’s recruitment has been criticised in the past, but that isn’t a stick often used to beat Tuchel, who typically speaking is a reliable operator in the market.
As such, United’s appeal in the transfer window would’ve likely been boosted if Tuchel was at the helm, not least with any attempts to snatch Michael Olise.
United were touted as a potential suitor for the ex-Crystal Palace man, but ultimately missed out when the attacker penned a £45m move to Bayern Munich. Had Tuchel been involved, perhaps the outcome would’ve been different.
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Tuchel avoids Liverpool hammering
Tuchel’s time with Chelsea wasn’t always perfect, but the German did boast an exceptional record in big matches.
Along with getting the better of Pep Guardiola on several occasions, Tuchel also enjoyed his encounters with Liverpool, boasting an unbeaten record as Chelsea boss in the Premier League.
Known for his pragmatism when it comes to setting a side up, it’s unlikely Tuchel would’ve stood for any of the issues that led to United’s schooling at Old Trafford against Liverpool last weekend.
Feel-good factor brought back to Old Trafford
But above all else, the one thing Tuchel would’ve guaranteed is a shift in mood for the struggling Red Devils.
Even before United slumped to back-to-back defeats this season, the toxicity surrounding Ten Hag’s premiership had started to seep into the fanbase. That all came to a head at the weekend when United fans were heard booing Ten Hag's decision-making.
Despite his many flaws, Tuchel is a master of communication, and while the performances might’ve taken some time to come to fruition, he’d have at least talked a good game off the pitch.
