Contested Premier League manager vies for Bayer Leverkusen coaching position, competing against Cesc Fabregas
Scoop: Cesc Fabregas Turns Down Leverkusen, Likely to Stay with Como
Looks like the Bundesliga's 2023/24 champions, Bayer Leverkusen, are missing out on the Arsenal legend, Cesc Fabregas, despite earlier speculations.
It seems Erik ten Hag, previously touted as the favorite, is no longer in the running. The change in fortune can be traced back to weekend developments in Germany and Italy.
Leverkusen's vacant coaching spot opened up after Xabi Alonso announced his departure, expectedly bound for Real Madrid. The Bundesliga side has wasted no time in shaping their squad for next season, with sporting director Simon Rolfes fielding numerous questions about Ten Hag, fresh off his sacking from Manchester United.
According to talkSPORT's European football expert, Andy Brassell, the situation has drastically changed on the continent. Fabregas and Ten Hag were thought to be the top candidates for Leverkusen, with the latter enjoying a favorable reputation in Germany from his days at Bayern Munich's second team.
However, Leipzig, one of the other teams interested in Fabregas, failed to secure a spot in the Champions League, potentially influencing his decision. Moreover, Fabregas' recent words post-match win against Cagliari, his sixth straight victory, hinted at a possible farewell.
"Whatever happens, I will be grateful to this club. I am very proud of what is happening in Como,” he said. “I want to leave an important legacy. The important thing is that whoever comes after me finds a great club with very well-prepared players and a spectacular work culture."
Brassell added, "That means that Leipzig, Milan, Roma, all the other teams that have shown interest, are out of the running."
Rumors about Fabregas joining Leverkusen have been quashed, with the Spanish ex-midfielder seemingly set to continue with Como in Italy. The turn of events signals a significant blow for Leverkusen, who are now left scrambling to find a suitable replacement for Alonso.
Sources:[1] Starsatfc.com[2] Goal.com[3] BBC.co.uk
- Despitw speculations linking him to Bayer Leverkusen, Cesc Fabregas has reportedly chosen to stay with Como in Italy.
- Leverkusen's search for a new manager takes a hit as Fabregas, a top candidate, is likely unavailable.
- The Premier League, Champions League, and other European leagues may be potential destinations for Fabregas, given his decision to leave Como.
- With Fabregas off the table, Leverkusen faces the challenge of finding a suitable replacement for Xabi Alonso, who is bound for Real Madrid.
- Football fans across the globe await developments as the transfer market heats up, with managers and players shuffling positions within the premier leagues and beyond.
