Bundesliga champions weigh up managerial options as former Man Utd boss enters frame
As Bayer Leverkusen look to build on the most successful season in their history, their search for Xabi Alonso’s successor has taken an intriguing turn. The German champions, fresh off their historic Bundesliga title win, had initially earmarked Cesc Fabregas as their first-choice candidate to take over the reins. But with Como reluctant to part ways with the Spaniard, another high-profile name is now looming large on Leverkusen’s radar — former Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag.
A dramatic twist in the post-Alonso succession plan
According to reliable German journalist Florian Plettenberg, Leverkusen are currently deep in negotiations with Serie A newcomers Como to bring Fabregas to the BayArena. The idea of handing the keys to one of football’s sharpest young minds, who has quickly built a reputation for his intelligence and leadership since moving into coaching, clearly excites the Leverkusen hierarchy.
But Como, ambitious in their own right and backed by a strong ownership group, are reportedly in no rush to let go of their prized possession. They view Fabregas as a long-term project — someone capable of taking the club to greater heights in Italy’s top flight. That resistance has complicated Leverkusen’s plans.
And so, while the door to Fabregas remains ajar, another has quietly opened. Step forward Erik ten Hag, a coach who may be looking to reboot his managerial career after a turbulent spell at Old Trafford.
Ten Hag waiting in the wings — and perhaps with a point to prove
Ten Hag has been out of work since leaving Manchester United last October. His departure came after a disappointing start to the 2024-25 season, with United managing just three wins from their first nine Premier League games. The decision to part ways with the Dutchman was seen as a necessary reset by many, but recent events have started to cast a different light on his tenure.
Since his exit, United’s fortunes have not improved — in fact, they’ve arguably worsened. Under Ruben Amorim, the Red Devils have slipped as low as 16th in the league table, with morale, cohesion, and results all continuing to falter. That downturn has given Ten Hag’s supporters fresh ammunition, suggesting the issues at United ran much deeper than just the man in the dugout.
Could Leverkusen offer Ten Hag the perfect stage for redemption?
Leverkusen’s ambitions remain sky-high
There is no doubt that whoever inherits Alonso’s position will have a tough act to follow. The Spaniard has not only guided Leverkusen to their first-ever Bundesliga crown but has also ushered in a new era of exciting, fearless football that has captured the imagination across Europe. With a squad full of talent and a fanbase now dreaming of domestic dominance and European success, the next appointment is absolutely critical.
Leverkusen’s managing director of sport, Simon Rolfes, is playing his cards close to his chest. He’s refused to confirm any names but has made it clear that the process is entering its final phase.
“No candidate has turned us down at any point in the process,” Rolfes told Sky Germany. “I believe we will wrap this up in May and that we’re in the final stages. It will definitely happen in May.”
His comments are telling — the club is determined to have the new boss in place before the summer break kicks into full swing, allowing preseason plans to begin under a new direction.
Fabregas vs Ten Hag — two very different options
What makes this managerial chase so compelling is the contrast between the two frontrunners. On one hand, you have Cesc Fabregas — still new to the coaching game, but with a football brain honed at clubs like Arsenal, Barcelona, and Chelsea. Charismatic and innovative, his early work at Como has turned heads, and many see him as one of the brightest managerial prospects in Europe.
On the other, Erik ten Hag brings experience, structure, and a defined philosophy. He led Ajax to the Champions League semi-finals and delivered cup success at Manchester United, even if things unraveled toward the end of his spell in England. His tactical rigidity and commitment to attacking football could be a snug fit for a Leverkusen team used to imposing itself on opponents.
Yet he also represents a safer option — perhaps more short-term than transformative. In contrast, appointing Fabregas would be a bold gamble on potential over proven pedigree.
Decision time in Leverkusen
It’s now a waiting game. If Como decide to stand firm, Ten Hag is in pole position to make a swift return to elite-level management. And for a coach who will still feel he has much to offer at the top level, the chance to work with one of Europe’s most dynamic squads could be exactly what he needs to reassert his credentials.
But if Como relent — swayed by Leverkusen’s offer or persuaded by Fabregas’ own ambitions — then football fans across the continent may get to witness one of the game’s great midfield maestros stepping up on one of the biggest Bundesliga stages.
Whichever path Leverkusen choose, the decision will speak volumes about the club’s long-term strategy. Do they stick with the youthful energy and fresh ideas of Fabregas, or turn to a more seasoned hand in Ten Hag?
One thing’s for sure: with their first-ever Bundesliga title secured and a team bursting with talent, Leverkusen’s next move will be watched with huge interest — and could shape the club’s future for years to come.
