Thomas Tuchel has already voiced his admiration for Marcus Rashford ahead of his potential move to Manchester United.

Erik ten Hag’s position as United manager is increasingly uncertain following a woeful start to the Premier League season that sees them languishing in 14th place. Despite being given £200million to spend on new players in the summer, the Dutchman has overseen just three wins in his first 11 games this season, with the most recent result being a goalless draw against Aston Villa.

Ten Hag has not lived up to the expectations set by new minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, who stuck by him by triggering a one-year extension in his contract during the summer. As a result, Old Trafford bosses are set to meet on Tuesday to discuss the manager’s future, with Tuchel being considered as a potential successor.

Tuchel, who has been without a club since leaving Bayern Munich at the end of last season, is viewed as a readily available option by the United hierarchy. He brings with him Premier League experience from his time at Chelsea – and the German has never hidden his appreciation for certain United players either.

One such player is academy graduate Rashford, who has endured a strained relationship with Ten Hag. Despite his recent dip in form, Rashford remains a talented player with enormous potential that could be harnessed under the right manager.

Tuchel could very well be that man, having been effusive about Rashford both in terms of character and on-pitch ability during his time as Paris Saint-Germain’s head coach. The German said in December 2020: “We value him very much when he plays in England and not Parc des Princes, honestly, because (him scoring against us) gets a little bit annoying.

“I have met him as an opponent three times and every time I’ve met a calm and humble guy and a nice person, which is amazing. I like this mixture a lot.

“For me personally, the sporting side is clear – he’s a big threat with his speed, with his ability to score, with his determination and his finishing. He’s very precise, taking shots inside and outside of the box.

“He is super rapid on counter-attacks and strong in the air with headers. He’s had a big impact and it’s nice to see guys like him from the academy having such a big impact in a big, big club like United.”

Tuchel, 51, welcomed United’s interest last season and spoke glowingly about the club prior to Bayern’s games against United in the Champions League group stage last year. He also made unprompted references to United’s aura and their storied 1999 Champions League final comeback victory over Bayern Munich.

Meanwhile, Rashford continues to have a difficult relationship with Ten Hag. Having made his United debut in 2016, the forward thoroughly enjoyed his first season under the Dutchman, scoring 30 goals in all competitions.

Yet his performances took a nosedive last season and he has faced disciplinary action for various off-pitch incidents. They include oversleeping and missing a team meeting, as well as skipping training after a late-night party in Belfast.

Rashford finally seemed to be regaining his form this season, only to be bizarrely substituted at half-time during the Porto game last week, despite scoring a goal. His visibly frustrated reaction hinted at ongoing tensions between him and Ten Hag, with the arrival of Tuchel potentially signalling a fresh start for Rashford.