"I'm pained he's leaving" - Thomas Tuchel moans at Mane exit

Thomas Tuchel has come out to lament about Sadio Mane's imminent departure from Bayern Munich following a tough season in the Bundesliga. (Photo credit: Sky Sports)

Ahead of Sadio Mane’s move to Al Nassr from Bayern Munich, club coach Thomas Tuchel has come out to say he’s disappointed that Mane couldn’t live up to his potential at the club.

Mane’s single season in the German Bundesliga was marred by injuries and a lack of goals, a development that has contributed to his move away from the German champions just after one season at the club after joining from Liverpool last summer.

"It was kind of sad. We had a long hug, but we had both a smile on our faces, and we assured ourselves to keep the good relationship. It's not personal from his side," Tuchel said in Singapore during Bayern's preseason tour.

"I can totally understand that he feels hurt. I will also not be happy if things like this happen. We didn't bring it to its full potential, which is also my job and my responsibility. So it's always kind of a sad moment, but in this particular situation, it was the best solution to untie the knot."

Mane has often been a bench player since the former Chelsea manager took over in March, and on Tuesday, the Saudi club made an official announcement that the reigning Africa Player of the Year will be joining the money-spinning league.

"We're experiencing the next league that tries to become more popular and famous, who tries to build a brand, and they convince a lot of players, a lot of quality players, and even coaches," Tuchel said.

So this is a completely new situation and a bit too early for me to have a clear opinion. I'm an observer, a surprised observer."