Ten Hag Set for Bundesliga Return as Leverkusen Coach

Erik ten Hag is close to becoming the manager of German champions Bayer Leverkusen. The former Manchester United manager has made progress in talks with the Bundesliga team. He has shown his “total availability” after talking with the club earlier this week.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Bayer Leverkusen is in advanced talks with Erik ten Hag to make him their new coach. The 55-year-old Dutch manager is ready to join the club after discussing the position earlier this week. Ten Hag will replace Xabi Alonso, who is reportedly set to join Real Madrid. Alonso led Leverkusen to an unbeaten Bundesliga title in the 2023/24 season.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Ten Hag has been out of a job since leaving Manchester United in October 2024. At United, he won both the Carabao Cup and FA Cup. His appointment at Leverkusen marks his return to German football, where he previously coached Bayern Munich’s reserve team. This experience may help him in the Bundesliga.

Leverkusen is currently second in the Bundesliga. They are three points behind leaders Bayern Munich and five points ahead of third-placed Borussia Dortmund with three matches left. The club has already qualified for next season’s Champions League, giving Ten Hag a chance to coach in Europe’s top competition.

WHAT NEXT FOR TEN HAG?

If he gets the job, Ten Hag will need to keep Leverkusen’s level high after their success under Alonso. The Dutch coach will prepare for domestic and Champions League football next season. Ten Hag had other options, with Ajax reportedly interested in bringing him back after Francesco Farioli resigned.

Leverkusen’s next match is a key away game against RB Leipzig this weekend. A win could keep their slim title hopes alive if Bayern slip up against Hoffenheim. Ten Hag would likely take over after the season ends, giving him time to analyze the team and plan for the summer transfer window at the BayArena.