Man United twice declined to chance to speak to Potter about managerial post

The former Brighton boss has joined one of the Premier League's top clubs this week after being appointed as Thomas Tuchel's replacement at Chelsea.

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However according to The Athletic, things could have been very different for the 47-year-old.

After being named as boss of the Seagulls in 2019, former Ostersunds and Swansea head coach Potter has established himself as one of the top coaches in the country, leading to interest from the top clubs.

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As a result of his efforts on the south coast, United have twice been encouraged to pursue Potter as a manager; once following the sacking of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and again when they searched for a permanent successor to interim coach Ralf Rangnick last term.

However, on both occasions, United declined the opportunity to hold talks with the Englishman.

This is said to have been down to his lack of Champions League experience, an odd demand given the club's current standing in the Europa League.

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Chelsea clearly haven't been deterred by that lack of experience in Europe's biggest competition, handing him a five-year contract to shape the west London side's long-term future.

Various reports claim he has been told Chelsea's goal remains to finish in the Premier League top four this season, despite the change of manager.

However, it is also reported the new Blues boss has been told his job will not be in danger if they miss out on a Champions League place, as long as things are positive on the pitch and in the dressing room under Potter's leadership.

It remains to be seen if Potter will be a success at the London club, but if he can emulate the sort of success that he's already showed in his career, it could mean that Man United are left to regret their lack of interest in one of English football's most talented coaches.