Erik ten Hag is back: Former Manchester United boss agrees deal to replace Real Madrid-bound Xabi Alonso as Bayer Leverkusen manager

The Dutchman is set to return to management for the first time since being sacked by Manchester United. According to The Athletic, Bayer Leverkusen have "reached an agreement in principle" to appoint Ten Hag and are now finalising the move.

Ten Hag will take over from Xabi Alonso who is heading to Real Madrid as Carlo Ancelotti's successor. As reported by Bild, Ten Hag is itching to show he is a top manager again after his Red Devils struggles. and does have previous experience in Germany as he worked as Bayern Munich II manager between 2013 and 2015. Leverkusen had also been interested in Como manager Cesc Fabregas but he is set to stay in Italy.

Bayer Leverkusen won the title for the first time under Alonso in 2023-24 but finished 13 points behind Bayern Munich this time around.

Leverkusen will hope to announce the new appointment shortly, while Ten Hag can start preparing for the new campaign and a fresh challenge in the Bundesliga.