Ten Hag Leads Race for Leverkusen Manager Post

Erik ten Hag, recently dismissed as Manchester United manager, has become the leading candidate to replace Xabi Alonso at Bayer Leverkusen, should Alonso move to Real Madrid as anticipated. Leverkusen has placed Ten Hag at the top of their shortlist due to his prior experience at Bayern Munich and his immediate availability. The club has not yet started formal discussions but has made initial inquiries, while also considering candidates such as Xavi and Fabian Hurzeler. Alonso remains a favored option to succeed Carlo Ancelotti at Real Madrid, though Ancelotti's expected move to coach Brazil is now uncertain due to Real Madrid's hesitance. This managerial uncertainty adds complexity to Leverkusen's planning. Leverkusen, currently second in the Bundesliga, are preparing for a major leadership transition after recent successes.