Former Arsenal and Chelsea star now frontrunner after Erik ten Hag slips down the pecking order
Bayer Leverkusen’s search for a new manager has taken a dramatic turn, with Cesc Fabregas now leading the race to replace the departing Xabi Alonso. The Spanish midfielder, currently in charge of Serie A side Como, has reportedly become the Bundesliga champions’ primary target, overtaking former Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag.
Alonso, who guided Leverkusen to their historic 2024 Bundesliga title, is set to join Real Madrid this summer, leaving the German club scrambling to find a worthy successor. Initially, ten Hag appeared to be the frontrunner, with reports suggesting positive early talks between the Dutchman and Leverkusen’s hierarchy. However, the situation has shifted rapidly, and Fabregas has now emerged as the preferred candidate.
According to Sky Germany, Leverkusen’s leadership—CEO Fernando Carro and sporting director Simon Rolfes—have intensified their pursuit of Fabregas after receiving encouraging signals from his camp.
Unlike previous approaches, where the 37-year-old firmly dismissed interest to focus on his project at Como (a club he co-owns), there are now indications he could be open to a move.
Reporter Florian Plettenberg claims Fabregas’ departure from Como is becoming “increasingly likely,” with players and agents close to the club picking up on subtle hints.
After Como’s recent victory over Cagliari, Fabregas struck a more ambiguous tone than usual when addressing his future:
“I want to leave an important legacy because whoever comes after me will find something good,” he said. “I am very calm. Football changes quickly—today you’re good, tomorrow you lose and suddenly you’re not. But my message hasn’t changed. Whatever happens, I’ll be grateful to this group. I’m proud of what we’re building here.”
While Leverkusen appears to be Fabregas’ most probable destination, RB Leipzig has also registered serious interest. However, ten Hag’s chances of landing in Germany have dwindled further after Liverpool legend Jürgen Klopp—now Head of Global Soccer for Red Bull—reportedly vetoed his appointment, deeming him an unsuitable fit for their style of play.
As the managerial saga unfolds, all eyes are on Fabregas—will he make the leap to the Bundesliga, or will Como convince him to stay? For now, Leverkusen fans are waiting anxiously for their next champion to be revealed.
Similar Posts:
- Xabi Alonso Dodges Real Madrid Rumors as Leverkusen Fight for Season Redemption
- Bayer Leverkusen’s Xabi Alonso to Address Victor Boniface’s Reckless Driving Incident
- Cesc Fàbregas Emerges as Top Contender for Stuttgart Managerial Role
- Xabi Alonso Set for Real Madrid Move After Emotional Leverkusen Exit
- Transfer Gossip: Liverpool Trails as Xabi Alonso Leans Towards Bayern Munich Move
