Bayern Munich have appointed former Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel after sacking Julian Nagelsmann.
The departure of Nagelsmann, 35, came out of the blue with Bayern through to the Champions League quarter-finals and just a point behind Bundesliga leaders Borussia Dortmund.
They have turned to Tuchel ahead of the crucial April 1 showdown with Dortmund, which could give the champions the momentum they need to retain their crown.
CEO Oliver Kahn and sporting director Hasan Salihamidzic thanked Nagelsmann and wished him well in brief statements.
Legendary former goalkeeper Kahn said: “Personally and on behalf of Bayern, I would like to thank Julian and his coaching team and wish everyone the best of luck for the future.”
And Salihamidzic added: “I am very grateful to Julian for what he has done for Bayern and I wish him all the best.”
Announcing the decision, a club statement said: “Bayern Munich have released head coach Julian Nagelsmann.
“This decision was taken by CEO Oliver Kahn and sporting director Hasan Salihamidzic in consultation with club president Herbert Hainer.
“Nagelsmann will be succeeded by Thomas Tuchel. Tuchel will receive a contract until 30 June 2025 and will supervise squad training for the first time on Monday.
“Along with Nagelsmann, assistant coaches Dino Toppmoller, Benjamin Gluck and Xaver Zembrod have also been released.”
German tactician Tuchel, 49, has been out of work since being axed by Chelsea and replaced by Graham Potter last September.
He led the Blues to glory in the Champions League, European Super Cup and Club World Cup after succeeding club legend Frank Lampard but fell out with the new Stamford Bridge hierarchy.