Manchester United's search for their next manager has suffered a new setback with Bayern Munich boss Ottmar Hitzfeld joining Arsene Wenger in effectively ruling himself out of replacing Sir Alex Ferguson at the end of next season.
Hitzfeld has emerged as one of the favourites to succeed the Scot when he brings down the curtain on his glittering managerial career.
But the 52-year-old, who has led both Dortmund and Bayern to Champions League glory, is contracted to the German champions until 2004 and insists he will not be tempted by the lure of Old Trafford before then.
His announcement follows hot on the heels of Wenger's decision to sign a two-year extension to his existing contract at Arsenal, which was due to expire next in June.
Hitzfeld, who has won 17 trophies as a manager including three straight Bundesliga titles, said: "I have been aware of speculation this summer that Manchester United are thinking of me as their future manager.
"It is a great honour that my name is being discussed, but there is no question about this for me.
"I have a contract with Bayern Munich until 2005 and I intend to honour it. I have never broken a contract in my career."
If Hitzfeld and Wenger remain true to their word United would appear to be left with three outstanding candidates - Martin O'Neill, David O'Leary and Roma boss Fabio Capello. None of those three have ruled themselves out of the running.
PA