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3 hours ago
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Reigning Bundesliga Champions, Bayer Leverkusen, find themselves in a tricky situation as the 2024/25 campaign is gradually coming to an end.
Die Werkself are currently looking at replacements as Xabi Alonso's links with Real Madrid keep strengthening every passing day.
The Spanish club are eager to replace Carlo Ancelotti with Alonso, who has been exceptional for Leverkusen last season, winning the German league title unbeaten.
Therefore, according to reports from Kicker via Sky Sports journalist Florian Plettenberg, Die Werkself are looking at several options, but former Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag is leading the race to be at the helm in Bay Arena next season.
While the Dutchman tops their shortlist of potential candidates, Leverkusen continue to wait for Alonso's stance. The Spaniard's fate is aligned with Ancelotti's decision to take charge of the Brazil national team.
There are some complexities that needs sorting out between Real Madrid and Brazil national team as they try and land the Italian manager.
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The Bundesliga champions haven't held talks with Ten Hag or anything like that, but they are interested in the 55-year-old. They are currently exploring the market and gathering information.
According to reports on Kicker, former Barcelona manager Xavi is the other name on Leverkusen's list. But they are tilted towards Ten Hag because he speaks German and understands the Bundesliga due to prior experience.
Will Erik Ten Hag return to a managerial role?
Ten Hag has been without a club since he was axed from Manchester United in October after overseeing the worst start in the Premier League for the Red Devils.
The Dutchman, interestingly, once worked with Bayern Munich reserves (2013-15), and therefore, he is no stranger to German football in general. It may surely help Leverkusen in coming to a decision.
The 55-year-old also had a great time nurturing young players and playing an attacking brand of football during his tenure at Ajax in the Eredivisie. He won three league titles with Ajax along with two KNVB Cups.
He also led United to FA Cup and Carabao Cup glory during his time at Old Trafford.
This can be an opportunity for Ten Hag to reignite his managerial career. The Bundesliga will allow him to work with young and dynamic players, something that he has always cherished throughout his career.
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