Erik ten Hag is on the verge of becoming the new head coach of Bayer Leverkusen, with multiple sources confirming that the Dutch tactician has reached an agreement to succeed Xabi Alonso, who is set to take the reins at Real Madrid ahead of the 2025–26 season.

According to reports from ESPN and BBC Sport, Ten Hag will sign a two-year contract running until June 2027, marking his return to German football and his first managerial role since being dismissed by Manchester United in late 2024.

Leverkusen Turn to Ten Hag After Alonso's Departure

Ten Hag’s appointment comes after a stellar two-year spell by Xabi Alonso, who guided Bayer Leverkusen to their first-ever Bundesliga title in 2024 and followed it up with a domestic double. Under Alonso, the club also secured Champions League qualification, finishing second in the 2024–25 Bundesliga campaign.

With Alonso now poised for a high-profile move to Real Madrid, Leverkusen’s board identified Ten Hag as the ideal candidate to carry forward the momentum and maintain the club's presence among Europe’s elite.

A Bundesliga Return for Ten Hag

For Ten Hag, the move to Leverkusen represents a return to familiar territory. He previously coached Bayern Munich’s reserve team between 2013 and 2015 before achieving major success with Ajax, including three Eredivisie titles and a Champions League semi-final appearance in 2019.

His most recent stint at Manchester United brought mixed results. While he lifted the FA Cup and League Cup, inconsistent league performances led to his departure after just over two seasons in charge.

Now, Ten Hag is set to bring his tactical discipline and player development expertise to a Leverkusen side brimming with young talent and European ambition.

Fabregas Out, Ten Hag In

While Cesc Fàbregas, currently managing Como in Italy, was also considered for the role, Bayer Leverkusen moved swiftly to secure Ten Hag once Fabregas declined to commit. The club’s decision reflects a clear intention to continue competing at the highest level, both domestically and in Europe.

What's Next for Bayer Leverkusen?

With a new coach incoming, Bayer Leverkusen now prepares for a pivotal preseason. The club’s top priorities will include strengthening their squad for the Champions League, integrating Ten Hag’s tactical system, and maintaining the strong foundation laid by Alonso.

As the 2025–26 Bundesliga season approaches, the focus now shifts to how Ten Hag will shape Leverkusen’s identity, build upon their recent success, and reestablish his managerial reputation in one of Europe’s most competitive leagues.

 
Subscribe to our newsletter for more exclusive soccer stories, match breakdowns, and rising star features from around the world.