Next Bayern Munich manager: 10 candidates to replace Thomas Tuchel

The conclusion of the 2023/24 season leaves Bayern Munich in an unusual position: trophyless and in search of a new manager.

Changes on the pitch are nothing new for the Bavarians, but there is something different this time, as the club appear to be talking up a flurry of candidates – including Thomas Tuchel, who almost made a U-turn after previously saying he would succeed. go to the end of the season as planned.

So with Bundesliga players looking uncharacteristically scattered when it comes to finding a successor, it's hard to keep up with who is in line to take over at the Allianz Arena.

Here are the managers who seem to be leading the race, although this could easily change in what could be a volatile summer in Munich.

1

Vincent Kompany

Burnley

Vincent Kompany has become a sought-after manager in recent weeks, with the Belgian linked with vacancies at Bayern and Brighton, among others.

That comes despite facing relegation from the Premier League with Burnley and a lack of top-flight success in charge, even if his trophy-laden playing career precedes him. It would be a brave decision for anyone to hire the Belgian, and the fact that he is being backed so much at this stage is interesting in itself.

2

Mauricio Pochettino

Free agent (Last job: Chelsea)

Mauricio Pochettino has recently left unexpectedly himself, and this has opened the door for him to switch west London to Bavaria.

Ever since he left Stamford Bridge, the indication has been that he might jump straight into another role, and with Bayern looking to return to the top of German football, pairing Harry Kane with his former boss now could be a different matter.

3

Roberto De Zerbi

Free agent (Last job: Brighton)

Roberto De Zerbi is ready to approach his club without negotiations, having parted ways with Brighton & Hove Albion at the end of the season.

One obstacle they must overcome, if they wish to sign the Italian, would be that the former Seagulls boss has appeared to suggest he will take a long break after leaving the south coast side.

But with him being touted as a potential replacement for Jurgen Klopp at Liverpool in recent months, perhaps a move to Bayern wouldn't be beyond his station.

4

Hansi Flick

Free agent (Last job: Germany)

Former manager Hansi Flick knows how to win at Bayern, so he would be a safer bet than most on this list. His time as Germany manager, including an early exit from the World Cup, may tarnish his reputation, but he will always be a winner of the Champions League and Bundesliga, and a return to familiar ground could bring him the best yet.

However, whether that is what this team needs to finally give up their domestic title remains to be seen.

5

Sebastian Hoeness

VfB Stuttgart

This would be a long shot, even if it would make a lot of sense from a selfish perspective. Sebastian Hoeness' Stuttgart side shocked the Bundesliga not only by qualifying for next season's Champions League, but doing so ahead of Bayern, and eventual winners Borussia Dortmund.

It has been said that but for the heroes of Bayer Leverkusen, the success of Hoeness's team will be the story of the season.

So weakening a rival by selecting their own talented manager will probably work well for Bayern, although indications are that Hoeness is committed to Stuttgart for now.

6

Erik ten Hag

Manchester United

You would be forgiven for thinking that Erik ten Hag has done a poor job at Manchester United, his side having to settle for eighth place in the Premier League. Of course, the upcoming FA Cup final against Manchester City is still their chance to play in Europe next season.

However, it seems that the powers that be at Bayern see things differently, with Ten Hag mentioned as a possible candidate for the top job in Bavaria despite a poor campaign.

But for all his achievements, it's hard to imagine Bayern seeing him as the best option given the Dutchman's limited success in two years at United.

7

Thomas Frank

Brentford

Reports in recent days have suggested that Thomas Frank has been discussed internally as a possible candidate for the position.

While Frank's work in turning Brentford into a stable Premier League side was impressive, it could be argued that there was little to show that he could thrive at a club like Bayern Munich. It can represent one hell of a jump, so this is on the unpredictable end of the probability scale.

8

Massimiliano Allegri

Free agent (Last job: Juventus)

There are many things in Massimiliano Allegri's favor when it comes to landing the Bayern job. He is a league winner and has managed many egos in a highly talented Juventus team for a long time.

So, if Bayern are preparing to build their next dynasty, Allegri can boast of managing one.

However, the nature of his move to Turin will cast doubt on his suitability for the role, not least after another sub-par League campaign from the Old Lady.

9

Xabi Alonso

Bayer Leverkusen

The fact that Xabi Alonso is so low on the list perhaps points to Bayern's lack of confidence in signing him, with the Spaniard leading Bayer Leverkusen to an unprecedented Bundesliga title in an unbeaten campaign.

Naturally, continuing the project in Leverkusen seems to be the most likely outcome, with many players willing to do the same. However, you won't be surprised if Bayern keep their eye on their former midfielder and pounce when given the chance.

10

Zinedine Zidane

Free agent (Last job: Real Madrid)

Zinedine Zidane's record is quite impressive, although he has never been successful outside of Real Madrid. In the Frenchman's favor is his ability to control a star-studded dressing room – something that could come in handy should Bayern come calling.

However, there are players who are better placed than a manager who can handle club football for three years.