Levi Rothermund
Bayer Leverkusen have officially unveiled Erik ten Hag as their new manager, following the departure of Xabi Alonso to Real Madrid. Ten Hag signs a two-year deal and becomes the sixth managerial appointment of his career, returning to the Bundesliga with the task of sustaining Leverkusen’s new golden era.
Following in Historic Footsteps
Xabi Alonso’s exit comes after a record-breaking season, where he led Leverkusen to a domestic double and a European-record 51-match unbeaten run. Alonso’s success has elevated expectations, and Ten Hag steps into a club that has quickly risen to become one of Germany’s elite.
Sporting director Simon Rolfes said:
“With Erik ten Hag, we rely on an experienced coach with an impressive track record. His six titles with Ajax were exceptional, and he also showed his class under tough conditions at Manchester United.”
Ten Hag’s Coaching Journey
Ten Hag, 56, had been out of work since November 2024 after being dismissed by Manchester United. Despite a turbulent stint, he still won the League Cup (2023) and FA Cup (2024).
Before that, Ten Hag rose to prominence at Ajax, winning three Eredivisie titles, two domestic cups, and reaching the Champions League semi-finals in 2018/19. His managerial résumé also includes roles at Go Ahead Eagles, Bayern Munich II, and FC Utrecht.
Ajax had approached Ten Hag to return after Francesco Farioli’s sudden exit, but he declined, seeking a fresh challenge.
Ambitions in Leverkusen
Speaking at his unveiling, Ten Hag said:
“Bayer 04 is one of the best clubs in Germany and also part of the European elite. I was impressed by the people in charge and their ambitions. It’s an exciting task to develop a strong team during this phase of transition.”
He now inherits a squad facing significant turnover. Florian Wirtz is expected to join Liverpool, while Jeremie Frimpong and captain Jonathan Tah are also on the move. A partial rebuild will be required for Leverkusen to maintain their momentum in the Bundesliga and Europe.
Final Word:
With Alonso gone and key players likely to follow, Ten Hag’s challenge is clear — steady the ship, reshape the squad, and continue Leverkusen’s rise as a top-tier European force. The next two seasons will be pivotal for both coach and club.