Erik ten Hag's appointment as Bayer Leverkusen's head coach marks a significant development in European football, as he succeeds Xabi Alonso, who departed to manage Real Madrid
Ten Hag has signed a contract with Leverkusen until 2027, Idman.biz reports.
Philosophy in action: Possession vs. precision
Ten Hag brings a wealth of experience from his previous roles. At Ajax, he secured three Eredivisie titles and led the team to the Champions League semi-finals in the 2018–19 season. His tenure at Manchester United included victories in the FA Cup and League Cup, although it concluded in October 2024 following a series of underwhelming performances. Notably, Ten Hag has prior experience in German football, having managed Bayern Munich II from 2013 to 2015.
Across the continent, Xabi Alonso was quietly masterminding a revolution. Under his watch, Bayer Leverkusen morphed into a machine—a side that embraced positional play with near-perfect discipline. Using a fluid 3-4-2-1, Leverkusen's system is all about spatial awareness, buildup precision, and defensive compactness. The result? A Bundesliga title, a domestic cup, and a near-invincible run that captured Europe’s imagination.
Comparative Summary
|
|
Erik ten Hag (Man United) |
Xabi Alonso (Leverkusen) |
|
Matches Managed |
114 |
137 |
|
Wins |
66 |
88 |
|
Draws |
17 |
31 |
|
Losses |
31 |
18 |
|
Win Percentage |
57.9% |
64.2% |
|
Points Per Game (PPG) |
1.97 (2022–23), 1.58 (2023–24) |
2.2 |
|
Goals Per Game |
Data not specified |
2.3 |
|
Major Trophies |
2 |
3 |
|
Unbeaten Streak |
Data not specified |
51 matches |
|
Notable Achievement |
EFL Cup & FA Cup victories |
Unbeaten Bundesliga season |
While Ten Hag’s methods rely on intensity and instinct, Alonso’s setup thrives on timing and calculated control.
The pressure and the praise
Ten Hag faced growing scrutiny as United struggled to maintain consistency, particularly in big matches. Critics questioned whether the players had truly absorbed his system, or whether the squad lacked the technical quality to execute his high demands.
Under Alonso, Leverkusen achieved historic success, including an unbeaten Bundesliga title in the 2023–24 season and a DFB-Pokal victory. However, the subsequent season saw them finish second in the league and reach the German Cup semi-finals. Ten Hag inherits a squad that has demonstrated its capabilities but will face challenges, such as the departure of key players like Jeremie Frimpong to Liverpool and potential transfers involving Florian Wirtz
Who’s winning the football future?
Ten Hag remains a respected figure, known for his tactical rigor and developmental focus. But with Alonso now heavily linked to elite managerial posts—including Real Madrid—it’s clear that the football world is watching his rise with awe.
Both coaches represent the modern evolution of the game. But as one wrestles with pressure and identity, the other glides with momentum and mastery. The contrast is as stark as it is fascinating—and fans across Europe are taking note.
Looking Ahead
Erik ten Hag now inherits a squad molded by Alonso’s philosophy—disciplined, attack-minded, and full of confidence. His challenge will be to sustain that momentum while stamping his own identity on the team.
With Leverkusen set to compete in the UEFA Champions League next season and expectations at an all-time high, all eyes will be on Ten Hag as he begins a new chapter in his managerial journey.
Idman.biz
