Breaking News: Cesc Fàbregas and Erik ten Hag Emerge as Top Candidates to Replace Xabi Alonso at Bayer Leverkusen
Bayer Leverkusen is set to appoint a new manager following the announcement that Xabi Alonso will depart at the end of the season. The club has identified two prominent figures as frontrunners for the role: former Arsenal and Barcelona midfielder Cesc Fàbregas and ex-Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag.(The Sun)
Xabi Alonso’s Departure and Legacy
Xabi Alonso’s tenure at Bayer Leverkusen has been nothing short of remarkable. Since taking over in October 2022, he transformed the team from a relegation-threatened side to Bundesliga champions, clinching the title with a 5–0 victory over Werder Bremen in April 2024. Under his guidance, Leverkusen also reached the UEFA Europa League final and the DFB-Pokal final, setting a European record of 49 competitive matches unbeaten .(Wikipedia, Wikipedia)
Alonso’s tactical acumen and leadership have left a lasting impact on the club, making his impending departure a significant event in German football.
Cesc Fàbregas: A Rising Star in Management
Cesc Fàbregas, 38, has made a notable transition into management. After retiring from professional football, he took charge of Italian club Como 1907 in July 2024. In his first season, he led the team to a potential top-half finish in Serie A, showcasing his managerial capabilities.(BILD, BILD, The Sun)
Reports indicate that Fàbregas is keen on moving to Bayer Leverkusen. Following a 3–1 victory over Cagliari, he hinted at a possible departure from Como, stating his desire to leave a positive legacy at the club . However, Como is reportedly reluctant to release him and may demand a substantial compensation fee, as Fàbregas is under contract until 2028 .(BILD, The Sun)
Erik ten Hag: Experienced and Ambitious
Erik ten Hag, 55, is another strong contender for the Leverkusen managerial position. The Dutch coach was dismissed by Manchester United in October 2024, despite winning both the League Cup and FA Cup during his tenure. Ten Hag is known for his tactical discipline and emphasis on structured play, qualities that align with Leverkusen’s football philosophy.(The Sun)
Negotiations between ten Hag and Bayer Leverkusen are reportedly underway, with both parties exploring the potential for collaboration .(The Scottish Sun)
The Decision Ahead
Bayer Leverkusen’s sporting director, Simon Rolfes, has emphasized the club’s ambition and commitment to securing a top-tier manager. The decision to replace Xabi Alonso is pivotal, as the club aims to maintain its competitive edge domestically and in European competitions.(BILD)
As talks progress with both Fàbregas and ten Hag, the football world eagerly awaits the announcement of Xabi Alonso’s successor. The choice will not only influence Bayer Leverkusen’s future but also signal the club’s direction in the evolving landscape of European football.