Bayer Leverkusen on Monday confirmed former Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag as their new manager, Afrosport reports.
Ten Hag, who was sacked as United manager in October 2024, replaces Xabi Alonso, with the Spaniard confirmed as Real Madrid’s new manager on Sunday.
The 55-year-old Dutchman has signed a two-year contract to remain with the German club until June 2027.
“Bayer 04 are one of the best clubs in Germany and also among the top clubs in Europe,” the Dutchman told the club website. “The club offers outstanding conditions, I’ve been very impressed with the discussions of the management.
“I’ve come to Leverkusen to continue with the ambition shown in recent years. It’s an attractive challenge to set up something together in this period of change and develop an ambitious team.”
Welcome to Bayer 04 Leverkusen, Erik ten Hag!
pic.twitter.com/Nj2ErK6Wsx
— Bayer 04 Leverkusen (@bayer04_en) May 26, 2025
Ten Hag will take over a Leverkusen side that finished second behind rivals Bayern Munich in the Bundesliga and reached the German Cup semi-finals a season after winning both competitions under Alonso.
The former Ajax manager led United to Carabao Cup and FA Cup triumphs in just over two seasons at Old Trafford but was sacked with the Red Devils 14th in the Premier League.
He enjoyed immense success during his time at Dutch club Ajax, winning the three Eredivisie titles as well as leading the team to the semifinal of the Champions League in 2018-19.
Leverkusen sporting managing director, Simon Rolfes, added: “With Erik ten Hag we have brought in an experienced coach with impressive success on the pitch. His six title wins at Ajax were exceptional.
“With three league titles and two domestic cup wins he and Ajax dominated Dutch football from 2018 to 2022. And Erik demonstrated his quality as a coach with the ensuing success at Manchester United under difficult circumstances at times.
“Our ideas of football coincide. With technically demanding and dominant football, we want to carry on in the Werkself style and aim for the highest targets in the Bundesliga, DFB Pokal and Champions League.”
Leverkusen confirmed that Ten Hag will officially start his new role at BayArena on 1 July.
