Has Bayer Leverkusen Found Their New Head Coach in Erik ten Hag?

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Has Bayer Leverkusen Found Their New Head Coach in Erik ten Hag?

Synopsis

In a significant move, Bayer Leverkusen has appointed Erik ten Hag as their head coach, following Xabi Alonso's departure to Real Madrid. Starting July 1, Ten Hag aims to bring his extensive experience and ambition to the Bundesliga club, promising an exciting new chapter.

Key Takeaways

  • Erik ten Hag appointed as head coach of Bayer Leverkusen.
  • Begins tenure on July 1 with a two-year contract.
  • Successor to Xabi Alonso, who moved to Real Madrid.
  • Brings experience from managing Manchester United and Ajax.
  • Aims to build an ambitious team during a transformative period.

Leverkusen, May 26 (NationPress) Bayer Leverkusen has named Erik ten Hag as their new head coach after Xabi Alonso opted to join Real Madrid. The Dutch tactician's role will commence on July 1, and he has agreed to a two-year contract.

The 55-year-old was dismissed by Manchester United in October and now re-enters European football with the 2024 Bundesliga champions.

"Bayer 04 is one of the finest clubs in Germany and ranks among the elite in Europe. The club provides exceptional conditions, and I was thoroughly impressed by the management’s discussions. I have joined Leverkusen to build on the ambition demonstrated in recent years. This is an appealing challenge to collaboratively develop an ambitious team during this transitional period," the Dutch coach stated.

Ten Hag's coaching journey began at Go Ahead Eagles in the 2012/13 season, where he achieved promotion to the top tier. He then moved on to coach the Bayern Munich second team, securing the Regional League title in Bavaria.

In 2015, he returned to the Netherlands as head coach and sporting director at FC Utrecht. Shortly after Christmas in 2017, Ajax approached him, and he led them to a league and cup double in the 2018/19 season, including notable victories in the UEFA Champions League against Juventus and defending champions Real Madrid before bowing out to Tottenham Hotspur in the semi-finals.

"With Erik ten Hag, we have recruited a seasoned coach with remarkable success on the pitch. His six title wins at Ajax were outstanding.

"Our football philosophies align. We aim to continue playing technically demanding and dominant football in the Werkself style while pursuing the highest ambitions in the Bundesliga, DFB Pokal, and Champions League," remarked Bayer sporting managing director Simon Rolfes.

Point of View

It's crucial to recognize the significance of Erik ten Hag's appointment at Bayer Leverkusen. His rich experience in European football and proven track record at Ajax position him as an authoritative figure in the Bundesliga. This strategic move reflects Bayer's ambition to secure a competitive edge in both domestic and international arenas.
NationPress
05/09/2025

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is the new head coach of Bayer Leverkusen?
Erik ten Hag has been appointed as the new head coach of Bayer Leverkusen.
When will Erik ten Hag start his role?
He will officially begin his role on July 1.
What is the duration of Ten Hag's contract?
He has signed a two-year contract.
What did Ten Hag say about joining Leverkusen?
He expressed excitement about the club’s ambitions and the challenge of developing a strong team.
What are Ten Hag's previous accomplishments?
He has had significant success at Ajax, winning multiple titles, including the league and cup double.