Could Former Man United Coach Ten Hag Replace Alonso at Leverkusen?

Berlin (Germany), May 3 (NationPress) As the Bundesliga clash in Freiburg approaches this coming Sunday, the swirling rumors concerning Bayer Leverkusen's Spanish head coach Xabi Alonso are reaching a fever pitch. Although Alonso maintained a calm demeanor and kept his future plans under wraps during the pre-match press conference, the reputable sports magazine Kicker has reported that "a deal is nearing completion" for his successor.

The magazine has identified former Ajax and Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag as the frontrunner to become Bayer Leverkusen's new head coach for the 2025-26 season, describing the negotiations as a "done deal," as reported by Xinhua.

According to Kicker, Leverkusen's management is aware of their coach's ambitions to succeed Carlo Ancelotti at Real Madrid. Consequently, the 2024 German champions are moving to secure an unofficial agreement with the 55-year-old Dutch strategist. The question no longer revolves around if, but rather when the official announcement will be made, the magazine noted.

Other media sources have also mentioned former Barcelona coach Xavi and Cesc Fabregas, the former Arsenal, Barcelona, and Chelsea midfielder currently managing Como, as potential successors. The hold-up regarding Alonso's departure is attributed to Real Madrid's ongoing quest for the La Liga title and Ancelotti's possible transition to the Brazilian national team, according to reports.

Alonso emphasized the importance of maintaining "good communication" with Bayer's leadership team, including CEO Simon Rolfes and Fernando Carro. "Everyone is kept in the loop and well-informed," stated the former Spanish international, who has 114 caps.

While he did not explicitly confirm his transfer, Alonso suggested a future move. "They are still competing for the Spanish title. The season is not over yet, and we need to be patient," he remarked, adding that the timing of any announcement is about waiting for the right moment.

The 2024 German double champion indicated he is calmly preparing for Saturday's league match in Freiburg, stating, "Having spent many years in professional football, I am accustomed to situations like this."

Kicker also reported that Real Madrid is awaiting Ancelotti's final decision about his future, with several other clubs also interested. However, Alonso's exit from Madrid seems inevitable. "I understand football and respect the developments at other clubs. It's not something I need to discuss extensively," Alonso commented.

Alonso joined Leverkusen in October 2022, guiding the team from the brink of relegation to its first Bundesliga title and clinching the 2024 German Cup.

Insider information suggests a "gentlemen's agreement" may be close, potentially including an "exit clause" should a major club like Real Madrid come calling. Despite his reputation as a tactical genius and exceptional game analyst developed during his playing days, Alonso's tenure at Leverkusen marks his first significant coaching experience, following roles at Liverpool, Real Madrid, and Bayern.