Pini Zahavi has revealed that Manchester United had agreed a “deal” to appoint Thomas Tuchel as Erik ten Hag’s replacement.

It was widely known that the Red Devils talked with the German in the summer but Zahavi confirms he rejected the offer:

“If I were Thomas, I would have gone to Manchester United. He had the opportunity. Everything was prepared, the deal was basically done.”

Zahavi has brokered several high-profile transfers during his time as an agent (including Harry Kane’s move to Bayern Munich) so he is a very reliable source of information.

Why did Tuchel turn down United?

It is believed that the 51-year-old had disagreements with the club’s hierarchy over transfer policy. The Red Devils have changed their recruitment model, with sporting director Dan Ashworth, technical director Jason Wilcox and Chief Executive Omar Berrada coordinating signings.

Tuchel clearly wanted more of a say on the players brought in so he turned down the opportunity. He was subsequently appointed England manager until the next World Cup.

Amorim was first choice when ten Hag was sacked

It should be emphasised that the only manager United made an approach for following the decision to axe Erik ten Hag was Ruben Amorim.

Based on the fact that the Portuguese has been named United “Head Coach” rather than “Manager”, it’s clear that the board were looking for someone who wasn’t interested in having much input on transfers.

Tuchel has fallen out with clubs before, most notably at Chelsea, so some may feel that things have turned out for the best for the Red Devils.

There is, of course, no guarantee that Amorim will be a success at Old Trafford but his way of working is more aligned with the club he is joining.

Find out who is in Manchester United’s first-team squad for the 2024/2025 season here