Reports indicate that three clubs are keeping a close watch on Erik ten Hag as a potential managerial contender should he part ways with Manchester United. Ten Hag, who assumed the reins at Old Trafford in the summer of 2022 after his tenure at Ajax, is nearing the conclusion of his second season with the club. While his inaugural season saw him secure a fourth-place finish in the Premier League and clinch the Carabao Cup, this term has been marked by fluctuations in performance for United.
Despite a recent victory over Liverpool in the FA Cup semi-finals, United’s premature exit from the Champions League group stage and their struggle to secure a top-four spot in the Premier League have cast doubts on Ten Hag’s future. While Gareth Southgate has rebuffed rumors linking him to United, speculation persists regarding Ten Hag’s potential successor. If United were to part ways with him, three clubs have emerged as potential landing spots for the Dutchman.
According to reports from the Daily Star, Bayern Munich is among the clubs expressing interest in Ten Hag. A move to Bayern would see him reunited with striker Harry Kane, whom he reportedly pursued during his time at United before Kane’s transfer to Bayern from Tottenham. With Bayern’s current manager, Thomas Tuchel, set to depart at the end of the season, Ten Hag is seen as a leading contender to fill the vacancy.
Another club reportedly eyeing Ten Hag is Bayer Leverkusen. With rumors circulating about Xabi Alonso’s departure this summer, Ten Hag is purportedly at the top of Leverkusen’s shortlist for the managerial position, owing to their impressive performance this season.
Stuttgart is the third Bundesliga club reportedly keen on securing Ten Hag’s services. Currently occupying third place in the Bundesliga, Stuttgart has enjoyed a successful domestic campaign under the management of Sebastian Hoeness. However, it remains uncertain whether Hoeness would be replaced by Ten Hag if the opportunity arises.
As speculation mounts over Ten Hag’s future at Manchester United, the prospect of managing Bayern Munich, Bayer Leverkusen, or Stuttgart presents enticing possibilities for him in the Bundesliga. Each club offers its own unique set of challenges and opportunities, which could potentially appeal to Ten Hag as he weighs his options for the future.
