Erik Ten Hag: Second Choice For Leverkusen, Manchester United Implications

Kenji Nakamura

4 min read

Post on May 23, 2025

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Bayer Leverkusen's Managerial Search and the Ten Hag Consideration

Xabi Alonso's Appointment: A Perfect Fit?

Bayer Leverkusen's appointment of Xabi Alonso as manager marked a significant shift in their managerial strategy. Alonso, a legendary midfielder known for his tactical acumen and playing style, seemed a natural fit for the Bundesliga club.

• Why Alonso? Leverkusen likely favored Alonso due to his playing experience, his understanding of European football, and his potential to instill a more possession-based, technically gifted style of play – a style arguably more aligned with Leverkusen's existing squad than Ten Hag's more direct, pressing approach.
• Leverkusen's Philosophy: Leverkusen historically favors a style of play emphasizing technical ability, quick passing, and controlled possession. Alonso's style directly aligns with this philosophy, offering a seamless transition for the players.

Why Ten Hag Was Considered: A Different Approach

Despite ultimately choosing Alonso, Leverkusen's consideration of Erik ten Hag speaks volumes about his managerial reputation. Ten Hag's success at Ajax, characterized by his possession-based, high-pressing approach and player development, made him an attractive candidate.

• Ten Hag's Tactical Approach: Ten Hag's style is known for its intensity and focus on high pressing, quick transitions, and a structured attacking system. While effective, this demands a specific player profile and could have posed a challenge for Leverkusen's existing squad.
• Potential Factors: Several factors might have influenced Leverkusen's final decision. Perhaps Ten Hag's salary demands were deemed too high, or contract negotiations proved difficult. The fit between his style and Leverkusen's existing players might also have played a role.

The Impact on Leverkusen’s Short-Term and Long-Term Goals

With Alonso at the helm, Leverkusen aims for a more cohesive, possession-based approach, potentially leading to improved passing accuracy, ball retention, and controlled game management. Whether Ten Hag's direct style would have yielded similar or better short-term results remains speculative. Long-term, both managers present different pathways for Leverkusen's development; Alonso might offer a smoother transition given his alignment with the club's established philosophy.

Manchester United's Appointment of Erik ten Hag: A Stroke of Luck?

The Manchester United Situation Before Ten Hag

Before Erik ten Hag's arrival, Manchester United experienced a period of turmoil. The team's performance under previous managers was inconsistent, characterized by tactical confusion, a lack of clear identity, and overall underachievement. Securing a high-profile manager like Ten Hag was therefore crucial for restoring stability and ambition.

Ten Hag's Impact at Manchester United

Ten Hag's impact has been multifaceted. He has introduced a more structured system, emphasizing pressing, improved passing accuracy, and clear attacking principles.

• Differing Approaches: Compared to his predecessors, Ten Hag's managerial style appears more disciplined and focused, prioritizing tactical organization and player development over individual brilliance.
• Player Turnover: Ten Hag has overseen both player acquisitions and departures. Certain players, lacking the necessary attributes for his system, have left, while additions better suit his high-intensity, possession-based game.

Ten Hag's Long-Term Vision for Manchester United

Ten Hag's long-term vision likely involves building a team that consistently competes for major trophies. This involves nurturing young talent, refining his tactical approach based on the team's evolution, and fostering a winning mentality throughout the squad.

Comparing Ten Hag's Managerial Styles and Suitability for Leverkusen vs. Manchester United

Conclusion: Erik ten Hag's Journey – A Case Study in Managerial Appointments

Leverkusen's decision to appoint Alonso over Ten Hag, while initially surprising, highlights the complex factors influencing managerial choices. The fit between a manager's style and a club's existing infrastructure, player profiles, and short-term/long-term goals is paramount. Meanwhile, Ten Hag's journey at Manchester United exemplifies the potential impact of a well-defined tactical vision and a commitment to player development. The different paths of both clubs following this decision provide a compelling case study in managerial appointments. Stay tuned for further analysis on Erik ten Hag's career and the ongoing impact of this managerial decision on both Manchester United and Bayer Leverkusen. Subscribe to our newsletter for updates!