Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag was rather blunt with his response when asked to comment on Chelsea’s decision to sack Thomas Tuchel.

Speaking at his pre-match press conference ahead of the game against Real Sociedad, ten Hag said that, while he has some sympathy for Tuchel, he was more focused on his own team:

“I feel sorry, but there is nothing I can say. It’s Chelsea, not Man United. It’s early in the season, yes.”

Tuchel’s departure could have an impact on the race for the top four this season so, in a way, the Blues’ managerial situation could have a direct impact on United.

Before the German’s sacking, the London club were struggling for form. They are two points behind ten Hag’s side in the Premier League table at the moment.

There is generally a “new manager bounce” after an appointment but that will probably have worn off by the time the two teams meet each other at the end of October.

As ten Hag says, his focus will be on more immediate matters. After the Europa League fixture on Thursday, United take on Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park on Sunday evening.