Bayer Leverkusen just made a big coaching move, signing Erik ten Hag to take over from Xabi Alonso, who is off to Real Madrid. The Dutch manager, who was last seen at Manchester United, has agreed to a contract running until summer 2027. That means the club is betting big on ten Hag’s experience and hoping he’ll bring some magic to the Bundesliga.
The Road to Ten Hag: Fabregas Said No
Before locking in ten Hag, Leverkusen was eyeing Cesc Fabregas, who was also a top candidate. But Fabregas decided to pass on the offer. With Fabregas out of the picture, it was smooth sailing for ten Hag to get the job. The Dutch coach was even being considered for a role back at Ajax Amsterdam but clearly wanted the Leverkusen challenge.
Why Erik ten Hag? Because He Wins Stuff
The club’s sporting director, Simon Rolfes, is thrilled with the new hire. He points to ten Hag’s impressive trophy cabinet: six titles with Ajax from 2018 to 2022, including three league titles and two cups. Plus, ten Hag grabbed a League Cup and an FA Cup while at Manchester United, although things didn’t go perfectly there, especially after a rocky start to the 2024 season.
Ten Hag’s Mission: Bring Style and Success Back
Erik ten Hag is ready to hit the ground running. Leverkusen wants him to bring a style of football that is both technically slick and dominant. The goal? To shine in the Bundesliga, win the DFB-Pokal, and make noise in the Champions League. Ten Hag himself is pumped about the club’s ambitions and the chance to build something special during this new phase.
The Dutch Connection at Bayer Leverkusen
Fun fact: Erik ten Hag is the third Dutch coach in Leverkusen’s history, following the footsteps of Rinus Michels and Peter Bosz. Looks like Bayer has a thing for Dutch bosses. Let’s see if ten Hag can keep the tradition alive and kicking.
Erik ten Hag’s arrival marks a fresh start for Bayer Leverkusen. After the ups and downs at Manchester United, he’s got his eyes set on turning the German club into a force to be reckoned with. Bundesliga fans, buckle up. The ten Hag era is here.
