Ex-Manchester United Coach Erik ten Hag Set for Managerial Role with Bundesliga Side

Erik Ten Hag spent just over two years Manchester United. (Credit: Imago)

i

Erik Ten Hag spent just over two years Manchester United. (Credit: Imago)

Ex-Manchester United Coach Erik ten Hag Set for Managerial Role with Bundesliga Side

Stephen Awino 10:19 - 25.05.2025

Erik ten Hag is set to return to management with Bundesliga side after a stint on the sidelines following his Manchester United exit.

Former Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag is poised to make a return to management, with reports indicating he is close to finalizing a deal to become the new head coach of Bundesliga side Bayer Leverkusen.

The Dutchman, who has been out of work since being dismissed by Manchester United in October, is expected to replace Xabi Alonso, who is set to take over at Real Madrid following Carlo Ancelotti's departure.

Ten Hag had taken time away from football despite receiving multiple offers, choosing instead to wait until summer 2025 before returning to the game.

PAY ATTENTION: Stay updated with the Latest Sports News in Kenya from Pulse Sports

A Familiar Face Returns to German Football

Former Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag
Former Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag (Credit: Imago)

Sources close to the Dutch tactician told BBC Sport earlier this month that he was preparing to resume coaching duties by July and was open to assessing any suitable opportunity.

Ten Hag’s potential appointment marks a return to familiar territory, as he previously spent two years in Germany managing Bayern Munich’s second team from 2013.

His understanding of the Bundesliga system and development pathways is seen as an asset for Leverkusen, a club that thrives on nurturing young talent and playing dynamic football.

Alonso’s departure leaves big shoes to fill, having guided Leverkusen to a historic Bundesliga title in 2024, ending Bayern Munich's long-standing dominance.

Under Alonso, Leverkusen not only secured their first league title but also completed a domestic double by winning the German Cup.

Although the club couldn't replicate last season’s success, they still secured a strong second-place finish, ensuring Champions League football next season.

From Manchester Setback to Bundesliga Revival

Former Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag
Former Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag || Imago

Ten Hag's tenure at Manchester United saw mixed fortunes.

In his two full seasons, he clinched the FA Cup and League Cup, and guided the team to a third-place finish in the 2022–23 Premier League season.

Despite these successes, inconsistency and underperformance in the 2023–24 campaign led to mounting pressure.

Even after a surprising FA Cup final win against Manchester City, he was relieved of his duties on October 28 following a 2-1 defeat to West Ham.

Now, Ten Hag appears ready for a fresh challenge in Germany. If appointed, his task will be to build upon Alonso’s foundation and sustain Leverkusen’s domestic and European ambitions.