Bayer Leverkusen has reportedly set its sights on Xavi Hernandez as the club searches for a new head coach following the abrupt dismissal of Erik ten Hag. Ten Hag, who was brought in to succeed Xabi Alonso, struggled to find his footing with the team, delivering disappointing results in the opening stages of the Bundesliga. Sources from within the squad suggest that morale had dipped significantly, contributing to a tense and negative atmosphere around the club.
After just two matchdays, Leverkusen’s management acted swiftly, parting ways with Ten Hag. In the meantime, the club’s interim coaching staff has taken over responsibilities, but the search for a permanent replacement is already in motion. Reports indicate that former Barcelona coach Xavi, Roger Schmidt, and Marco Rose are among the top candidates being considered for the role, though no official decision has yet been made.
According to Sky reporter Patrick Berger, the planning for Ten Hag’s succession began even before his dismissal was formally announced. Discussions with Xavi, who has been without a managerial role since leaving Barcelona in the summer of 2024, were reportedly held last week. Alongside him, Roger Schmidt—formerly with Benfica until summer 2024—and Marco Rose, dismissed from RB Leipzig in March 2025, are also being evaluated for the position. Despite the speculation, it remains uncertain which of the three is currently favored by Leverkusen’s hierarchy.
The potential appointment of Xavi comes with both excitement and caution. Fans and commentators have debated whether the former Barcelona midfielder should take on the Leverkusen challenge, especially given the club’s ongoing player turnover and high expectations following recent domestic success. Some suggest that Xavi might be better suited to a team with lower immediate pressure, allowing him to rebuild and implement his footballing philosophy without the weight of urgent results.
As the transfer window continues and managerial decisions loom, Bayer Leverkusen faces a critical period of transition. The club’s choice for the next head coach will likely define its trajectory in the Bundesliga and European competitions for years to come, making the appointment one of the most closely watched in European football this season.
