Chelsea could have an advantage over Manchester United in the pursuit of Thomas Tuchel this summer, with Mauricio Pochettino and Erik ten Hag's futures uncertain. Pochettino is due for talks with Chelsea, while Ten Hag's future at United hinges on their FA Cup final result. Tuchel, the former Chelsea manager, is reportedly open to a return to Stamford Bridge, presenting a potential managerial target for both clubs.

Chelsea could hold a significant advantage over Manchester United if both clubs target Thomas Tuchel this summer. The managerial futures of Mauricio Pochettino and Erik ten Hag are uncertain following underwhelming seasons.

Pochettino is set to meet with the Chelsea board at the end of the season. Despite his players showing resilience in a 2-2 draw at Aston Villa last weekend, the Argentine may still face the consequences of another challenging season at Stamford Bridge.

During Pochettino's first year at Chelsea, the team won only 13 out of 33 Premier League matches and conceded 59 goals, more than twice as many as league leaders Arsenal, who recently defeated them 5-0. Meanwhile, Ten Hag's Manchester United are just six points ahead of Chelsea and have suffered 12 league defeats this season.

In his debut season at Old Trafford, Ten Hag guided the team to a third-place finish and Carabao Cup victory with 75 points. However, this season, they are on course to finish with 61 points and have struggled with poor performances and results.

If both Pochettino and Ten Hag are dismissed, it could pave the way for a battle between Chelsea and Manchester United for Tuchel. The Bayern Munich head coach, who led Chelsea to a Champions League triumph in 2021, will be the most sought-after unemployed manager this summer.

Both Chelsea and Manchester United have expressed interest in Tuchel. Chelsea, with their previous connection to Tuchel, have an advantage over United if they pursue their former manager, who is keen to return to the club.

According to the Daily Mail, Manchester United will delay any decision on Ten Hag's future until after the FA Cup final against Manchester City on Saturday 25th May. Chelsea's final game of the season is on Sunday 19th May against Bournemouth.

Following the conclusion of the season, Chelsea will meet with Pochettino, although a decision may be made beforehand. If they decide to part ways with Pochettino, they may approach Tuchel's representatives in advance to gauge his interest in returning to Stamford Bridge.

Tuchel has previously expressed his desire to return to Chelsea due to his affection for the club. Although he was sacked in September 2022, Tuchel is reportedly open to a second stint in the English capital.

Chelsea's fans greatly admire Tuchel, and he would be a top candidate if the club requires a new manager for the next season. Besides Tuchel, Manchester United are also interested in former Chelsea boss Graham Potter, who is a target for Ajax, while England manager Gareth Southgate may not be available until late July at the earliest.

Missing out on Tuchel to a Premier League rival would be disappointing for Chelsea's owners as they aim to restore the club to its former glory. However, any delay in Manchester United's decision on Ten Hag's future could impact their pursuit of Tuchel.