Erik ten Hag: Bayer Leverkusen name former Man Utd manager as Xabi Alonso’s successor as head coach

Former Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has been selected as Xabi Alonso’s successor to lead Bayer Leverkusen as head coach. This marks Ten Hag’s first role since his departure from Old Trafford in October 2024. Bayer Leverkusen secured second place behind Bayern Munich in the Bundesliga last season.

Bayer Leverkusen have confirmed the appointment of Erik ten Hag, previously of Manchester United, as the new head coach, succeeding Xabi Alonso.

The 55-year-old Dutch tactician has inked a deal with the German outfit that extends until June 2027.

Ten Hag steps into a squad that clinched second in the Bundesliga and advanced to the German Cup semi-finals, following a triumphant season under Alonso, who led the club to both titles the previous year.

Alonso departed to helm Real Madrid, taking over from Carlo Ancelotti, who has assumed leadership of Brazil’s national team.

This appointment is Ten Hag’s first venture since his dismissal from Manchester United in October 2024. During his two-and-a-half-year tenure at Old Trafford, he secured two domestic trophies but was sacked after the club endured its worst seasonal start, suffering four losses in nine Premier League matches.

At his inaugural press conference following the announcement, Ten Hag expressed enthusiasm: “Bayer Leverkusen ranks among Germany’s finest clubs and is a prominent force in Europe’s elite circles. The club boasts exceptional facilities, and my conversations with its leadership have left a strong impression. I am here to advance the lofty aspirations cultivated in recent years. It’s an exciting challenge to shape a new era and nurture a squad with bold ambitions.”

Ten Hag proved 'quality' at Man Utd

Simon Rolfes, Bayer Leverkusen’s sporting director, lauded Ten Hag’s proven excellence and achievements, highlighting his stints at Ajax and Manchester United.

Ten Hag’s four-year spell at Ajax, beginning in 2018, yielded three Eredivisie titles and two KNVB Cups. In 2022, he transitioned to Manchester United, where he lifted the FA Cup and League Cup.

“By appointing Erik ten Hag, we are entrusting our team to a seasoned coach with a remarkable record of sporting triumphs. His six titles with Ajax Amsterdam were extraordinary,” Rolfes remarked.

“From 2018 to 2022, he and Ajax reigned supreme in Dutch football, capturing three league crowns and two cup victories. Even amidst challenging circumstances at Manchester United, Erik demonstrated his coaching prowess. Our footballing philosophies are in harmony. With a technically sophisticated and commanding style, we aim to chase the highest honors in the Bundesliga, DFB-Pokal, and Champions League.”