Bayern Munich’s pursuit of a new manager has encountered a recent obstacle as Julian Nagelsmann has chosen to extend his contract with the German national team. However, the renowned German club is now turning their attention towards England.
/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/73175063/2002254648.0.jpg "Unable to convince Nagelsmann to return, Bayern Munich will recruit Roberto de Zerbi 1")
Julian Nagelsmann recently signed a new two-year agreement with the DFB (German FA), a move that reportedly caught Bayern off-guard as they were in talks with him for a potential return to the club.
Nagelsmann had also attracted interest from Liverpool and Barcelona for a return to club management. However, he has ultimately chosen to lead Germany until the 2026 World Cup.
This decision by Nagelsmann means that Bayern have now missed out on their top two targets to succeed Thomas Tuchel, whose departure was confirmed earlier this season.
Bayern Munich initially pursued Xabi Alonso, but after his decision to stay with Bayer Leverkusen, they shifted their focus to other options, including Roberto De Zerbi from Brighton.
The club has been actively working on securing new targets, with De Zerbi emerging as a top contender for the managerial position.
Despite Brighton’s efforts to extend his contract with a higher release clause, De Zerbi has not committed to a new deal yet.
Bayern would not hesitate to pay such a fee for De Zerbi, if they determine that he is the suitable candidate for the position. In the past, Bayern paid a record-breaking fee of over £20m to secure Nagelsmann after successfully enticing him away from RB Leipzig.
There have been rumors linking former Real Madrid manager Zinedine Zidane to the role, but sources have downplayed those claims. However, Bayern has been exploring other options, including former Manchester United manager Ralf Rangnick, who is currently in charge of Austria.
Another potential candidate has been informed of is Sebastian Hoeness, the head coach of Stuttgart. Hoeness has previously coached Bayern’s Under-19 and second team and has had an outstanding season with Stuttgart, as they compete for a spot in the Champions League.
It is worth noting that Hoeness is the son of former Bayern Munich legend Dieter Hoeness, and his uncle Uli Hoeness, another Munich great, currently serves as a board member at the Allianz Arena and has previously been the club’s president.