Leverkusen H Hunts for a New Coach with Xabi Alonso on His Way Out
Ex-Bayern standout poised to replace Alonso.
Looks like a new broom is about to sweep the Bayer Leverkusen club with the impending departure of Xabi Alonso to Real Madrid in summer. This move is not unexpected and the German champions are already on the lookout for a new coach.
- Hot Tip: Martin Demichelis - A Stable Force?
- Decision Time: Alonso's Fate is Sealed
With Xabi Alonso seemingly out of the picture, Leverkusen is eyeing some noteworthy candidates for its new coach. Particularly tantalizing is the prospect of Martín Demichelis, a popular choice due to his excellent command, clear leadership, and native German-speaking skills.
A Loaded Pool of Talent
According to Bild, Demichelis is among the top contenders. The 44-year-old coach currently manages CF Monterrey in Mexico and has also previously shining at River Plate. Beyond Demichelis, a few other notable mentions abound in the German media.
- Sandro Wagner, a coach for the DFB, and Francesco Farioli, the Ajax coach, are being considered.
- Xavi Hernández – Famous for his stint at Barcelona, has outside chances due to his shared philosophy with Leverkusen.
- Kasper Hjulmand, former Denmark coach, is also a dark horse contender.
Imanol Alguacil, Real Sociedad manager and a leading candidate with his impending availability following his summer exit, is attracting attention. German media outlet Sky Germany attributes this to the praise Leverkusen CEO Fernando Carro has for Alguacil’s performance[3][4].
Erik ten Hag, former Manchester United manager, is another secondary candidate, noted for his tactical approach during his Ajax era, despite recent setbacks[5].
Sandro Wagner had previously been linked to the position[3], but recent developments hint that he is more inclined to leave his national team post-Nations League rather than pursuing club management straight away[3]. Leverkusen emphasizes proactive planning, with Sporting Director Simon Rolfes confirming contingency preparations[5].
- Bayer Leverkusen may consider Martin Demichelis as a stable candidate for their new coach, given his command, leadership skills, and fluency in German.
- Apart from Demichelis, other potential coaches being considered include Sandro Wagner, Francesco Farioli, Xavi Hernández, and Kasper Hjulmand.
- Imanol Alguacil, Real Sociedad manager, and Erik ten Hag, former Manchester United manager, are also rumored to be secondary candidates for the position.
- Leverkusen is actively planning for their next coach, with Sporting Director Simon Rolfes confirming contingency preparations amidst the ongoing search.
