According to sources, recent allegations regarding Thomas Tuchel and England were created to “put pressure” on Manchester United to fire head coach Erik ten Hag. The Manchester United manager is under intense criticism since his team has only won two of their first seven Premier League games this season. They also drew their first two Europa League matches.

Last season’s FA Cup victory saved Ten Hag after co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his new-look recruitment staff reportedly spoke with several possible replacements. Tuchel, who won the Champions League with Chelsea, has been connected with Manchester United, with one recent rumour claiming he is’most likely’ to replace Ten Hag.

He clarified: “It’s thought that recent reports of talks between Thomas Tuchel and England are an attempt to put pressure on Manchester United, who have an interest if they do part ways with Erik ten Hag.” While Ten Hag has rightfully been chastised for some of his decisions this season, the former United coach thinks he is “one of the hardest-working managers” he has ever worked with.

I can image how irritating it is for Erik, who is certainly one of the hardest-working managers I’ve encountered,” McCarthy added.