Tuchel targets Champions League trophy for Bayern Munich
Bayern Munich unveiled Thomas Tuchel as their new manager at a press conference on Saturday. The Bavarian side sacked Julian Nagelsmann earlier on Friday despite the 35-year-old having a 71% win rate, while also winning all eight matches in the UEFA Champions League.
Tuchel was unveiled to the media accompanied by club CEO Oliver Kahn and Board member for Sport Hasan Salihamidzic.
Tuchel Champions League triumph is within reach
The former Chelsea manager claimed that it was an honor and distinction to be approached by the Munich-based outfit. Speaking on his appointment, Tuchel said, “The club’s DNA is about commitment. Bayern is about winning, also about the way of winning. The squad is one of the most talented and best squads in Europe.
“I’m really looking forward to working with this squad. You’re a contender for every trophy with these players. It’s also a big commitment. In the end, it’s also a personal wish to work close to my family. There were many reasons to commit quickly.”
Tuchel mentioned that the timing of his appointment came as a surprise and that there were no contacts from the club beforehand. The 49-year-old German also mentioned that he had expected to continue his career abroad after he was surprisingly sacked by Chelsea earlier in the season in September.
On being asked about his goals for the season, Tuchel said, “We have to build on the starting position that Julian has created with the team, that we have a chance of winning the trophy in all three competitions. There are risks involved, of course. But we love the pressure and the stress. My love for the game is much greater than any concerns. It’s about approaching the task with confidence – we want to be contenders for all three trophies.”
The new manager also said that the strength of the club is undisputed, and the squad is amongst one of the best in Europe. Interestingly, Tuchel’s first match in charge will be against his old side Borussia Dortmund, which could potentially be a title decider.
Bayern are currently second in the Bundesliga standings, a point behind Dortmund, and the winner of the Der Klassiker could very likely go on and win the title.
In the Champions League, Bayern are set to take on Manchester City in the quarter-finals. Should they find their way past Pep Guardiola’s side, Tuchel will come up against his old employers Chelsea if the Blues manage to knock out reigning UEFA Champions League holders Real Madrid over two legs.
Bayern Munich’s next game is Saturday, April 1 against Borussia Dortmund in Der Klassiker. For viewers in the United States, the game is on ABC and ESPN+.
Photo: IMAGO / Eibner