Thomas Tuchel named Bayern Munich boss and first faces Borussia Dortmund reunion before Pep Guardiola rematch and potential revenge at Chelsea
Thomas Tuchel's appointment at Bayern Munich sees the return of one of football's top managers.
However, it won't be plain sailing for the German as he prepares for a series of tough tests in his opening weeks in the job.
Tuchel is back in management following his sacking at Chelsea in September, confirmed on Friday as Julien Nagelsmann's replacement at Bayern.
The 49-year-old has been living in Munich since his departure from the Premier League and will take training for the first time on Monday.
He has signed a two-year contract with the German champions, who are currently a point behind leaders Borussia Dortmund in the Bundesliga table.
Tuchel was at Paris Saint-Germain prior to his stint in west London, and made a name for himself during his spell at Borussia Dortmund.
Although he has the admiration of their fans, Tuchel's first task at his new employer will be to get one over his former club.
Bayern's first match after the international break is a home clash against bitter rivals Dortmund.
Just one point sits between the two sides, who have been consistent rivals for the title in previous campaigns, so a lot is at stake at the Allianz Arena.
Champions League action will return a week-and-a-half later, with Manchester City sitting between them and the semi-finals.
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Tuchel has already experienced success against Pep Guardiola on the European stage, beating him in the 2021 final with Chelsea.
Guardiola got the better of him in their following meetings, but Tuchel currently holds their Champions League bragging rights.
Should Bayern win over the two legs, they will face the winners of Real Madrid vs Chelsea.
Tuchel would therefore prepare for his return to Stamford Bridge just eight months after he was dismissed by the Blues.
It would see him come up against his replacement Graham Potter in the dugout in west London as both sides fight for a coveted spot in the final.
He is a fan favourite at Chelsea, with some supporters continuing to sing his name, but their support could be silenced should Tuchel get his revenge on the biggest stage.