Since succeeding Julian Nagelsmann back in March, Thomas Tuchel has faced a significant amount of scrutiny in charge at Bayern Munich. Der Rekordmeister’s eleventh-straight Bundesliga title and their phenomenal start to the season have all been forgotten due to the unrelenting nature of Bayer Leverkusen.
However, defeat to the Werkself on matchday 21 was only ever going to leave further question marks surrounding Tuchel’s future, and an embarrassing first-leg loss away to Lazio in the Champions League has applied further pressure on the 50-year-old. Therefore, if Tuchel were to depart Bavaria, who would take the hot seat at the Allianz Arena?
As reported by Bild, Bayern are seriously considering re-appointing Hansi Flick, who has been without a job since being relieved of his duties as the German National Team head coach in September. It is understood that Flick has also recently spoken to Bayern’s honorary president, Uli Hoeneß, and is seen as a perfect candidate for the job by the decision-makers at Bayern.
Nevertheless, Bayern will face competition from Barcelona, who are looking to replace Xavi in the summer. It has previously been reported that Flick would be interested in the role in Spain, with the 58-year-old learning Spanish as he prepares for the possibility of being appointed by the Blaugrana.
However, according to The Times, the record champions are willing to go toe-to-toe with Liverpool in order to appoint Leverkusen head coach Xabi Alonso. Since the Spaniard took charge at the BayArena, Die Werkself have transformed from relegation contenders to being arguably the best side in Europe.
Regardless, Leverkusen are optimistic that Alonso will remain in charge ahead of next season. Sporting director Simon Rolfes recently explained that Alonso feels very comfortable at Leverkusen, and due to his contractual situation, there is little reason for the head coach to leave in the summer.
For Bayern, they find themselves in yet another mini-crisis, and the pressure will only continue to mount for Tuchel. If he fails to bring silverware to Bavaria by the end of the campaign, then a change will undoubtedly be made, but as to who the heir to his throne will be, it remains a mystery.
GGFN | Will Shopland
