Should be an issue in Leverkusen: Ex-Barca coach Xavi. © APA/afp / MANAURE QUINTERO

Leverkusen boss: “Xavi, Raul? Are many Spanish names being mentioned?”

Vice-champion Bayer Leverkusen wants to present a successor to Erik ten Hag as quickly as possible.

September 03, 2025

From: dpa/sn

"We hope that training next Tuesday can perhaps be led by someone new, but I can't give any assurances here," said Managing Director Fernando Carro on the sidelines of the DFL General Assembly.

"We're working hard to find a solution quickly, but you know how it is in business. You only have security once you've signed," said the 61-year-old. Former world-class player Raúl is currently being discussed in Spanish media as an option. "There are many Spanish names that have been mentioned, including in the summer, but I won't tell you anything about them," Carro explained.

Ten Hag gone after only three competitive games

The 2024 champions parted ways with Dutchman ten Hag after just two Bundesliga matchdays. Following a 1-2 defeat in the season opener against Hoffenheim, Bayer squandered a 3-1 win at Werder Bremen. The final score was 3-3. Furthermore, the former Ajax Amsterdam and Manchester United coach is said to have lost the team at record speed, alienating the bosses, including Carro and sporting director Simon Rolfes.

Only played at the BayArena for three games: Erik ten Hag. © APA/afp / INA FASSBENDER

Ten Hag, for his part, spoke of the feeling that the relationship had never been characterized by mutual trust. He had criticized the quick separation, calling it unprecedented.

To SkyAccording to information, initial talks with Barcelona legend Xavi took place last week. Roger Schmidt and Edin Terzic are also reportedly on the list of potential candidates.