Hidden Man United detail included in England’s statement about Thomas Tuchel appointment

There was a hidden Manchester United detail included in England’s statement about their appointment of Thomas Tuchel as national team manager.

Thomas Tuchel was announced as England’s new manager on Wednesday afternoon following the latest international break.

He has replaced Gareth Southgate as the Three Lions boss after the Englishman stepped down from his role following the nation’s runners-up position at Euro 2024.

For Manchester United supporters, this seems like it is a blow as the German coach was at the front of the running for the Old Trafford job if Erik ten Hag was to be sacked.

The Dutch manager is currently under strong pressure and while he lasted the most recent international break, a departure could easily occur in the coming weeks if results do not improve.

In fact, many supporters expected the 54-year-old to be sacked after club chiefs met together for an in-depth meeting on 8 October. It was well-reported that his future would be discussed.

Hidden Man Utd detail in Tuchel statement

Reports had also suggested that Tuchel was made aware that he would be the number one choice to take over from Ten Hag, but an important detail in England’s statement has provided a level of clarity over the recent situation.

The FA has explained that Tuchel had signed his contract to become the first foreign manager to lead England into a major tournament since Fabio Capello on the 8 October – the same date that United chiefs met to discuss Ten Hag’s future.

Their delayed announcement was to provide minimal distractions for interim boss Lee Carsley and his squad during their latest fixtures.

England’s statement read: “The decision to recruit Tuchel and Barry was approved by the FA Board early last week, with Tuchel signing his contract on Tuesday 8 October.

“The announcement was delayed to minimise distraction around the international camp that has just concluded.”

What is Man United’s post-Ten Hag plan?

This means that the former Chelsea boss was already out of the running for the United job before the meeting earlier this month even began. He would have been in advanced negotiations in the days leading up to that meeting, likely even before the draw against Aston Villa.

Questions will be asked why United did not move for Tuchel earlier, with the German manager’s representatives likely to have told the club about the England interest.

However, ever since the summer it has seemed that the INEOS-led regime have not been majorly convinced by the available managers. Perhaps they are eyeing a head coach who’s currently in a role if they have to pull the trigger with Ten Hag in the coming weeks or months.

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