Bayern Munich have announced that Thomas Tuchel will leave the club at the end of the season.
Despite Tuchel’s contract in Bavaria being set to expire on June 30, 2025, the pair will separate a year early, on June 30, 2024. This is a result of amicable discussions between Tuchel and Bayern CEO Jan-Christian Dreesen regarding the direction of the club.
In an official statement posted by the club, Dreesen clarified: “In an open, good conversation, we came to the decision to mutually end our collaboration in the summer. Our goal is to carry out a sporting realignment with a new coach for the 2024–25 season. Until then, every individual in the club is expressly challenged to achieve the maximum possible in the Champions League and the Bundesliga.”
“I also explicitly hold the team responsible. Especially in the Champions League, we are convinced that after the 0-1 defeat in the first leg at Lazio Rome, we will advance to the quarter-finals in the second leg in our fully occupied Allianz Arena with our fans behind us.”
Recent results have left Der Rekordmeister in a perilous position, as just for the seventh time this century, the record champions face the reality of not lifting silverware come May. While Tuchel may be the one to face the consequences now, there will certainly be decisions made regarding the playing staff in the summer as Bayern aim to overhaul their squad.
In spite of this, Tuchel has explained how he and his side will continue fighting: “We have agreed that we will end our collaboration after this season. Until then, I and my coaching team will, of course, continue to do everything we can to ensure maximum success.”
As previously reported, Bayer Leverkusen head coach Xabi Alonso is Bayern’s number one target, while others such as Hansi Flick and Zinedine Zidane have also been identified as possible successors to Tuchel. Regardless, it is expected that Bayern will use the time between now and the summer to fully prepare for next season and ensure that they regain control over Germany once again.
As for Tuchel, there is little indication as to what could be on the horizon. However, the soon-to-be-vacant role as Germany’s head coach could appeal to the 50-year-old.
GGFN | Will Shopland
