The Coaching Market Moves at Great Speed in Europe, One of the Most Unexpected Domino Effects Could Directly Benefit Xavi Hernández. The former FC Barcelona coach, after abruptly leaving the Barça bench, is waiting for a new opportunity. This could come from Germany, with Bayer Leverkusen as a possible destination.
The Key to This Operation Lies in Madrid with Xabi Alonso, the current Leverkusen coach is on Real Madrid's radar for the next season. From the white club, they consider that the Tolosa native has the ideal profile to lead the new post-Ancelotti project. If his signing by the merengue team is finally confirmed, Leverkusen already has several alternatives to cover his departure.
One of the options that the German club's management is considering is Xavi Hernández. The Catalan coach fits the profile of a young coach, with projection and experience in big scenarios. Moreover, his football proposal of possession and high pressure is liked in Germany, where teams are increasingly betting on proactive play.
He's Not Fernando Carro's Favorite
However, the name that most appeals to Bayer Leverkusen's leaders and their CEO, Fernando Carro, is not Xavi's. At the moment, the favorite to replace Xabi Alonso would be Erik ten Hag, the former Manchester United coach was dismissed a few months ago by the 'red devils'. His experience in the Bundesliga as an assistant at Bayern and his knowledge of Central European soccer place him in a privileged position.
The Fact That Ten Hag Is Geographically Closer and Has Already Worked in Environments Similar to Leverkusen's Plays in His Favor. Moreover, his play style is compatible with the squad that Xabi Alonso would leave. Bayer 04's sports management considers that the Dutchman has the ability to keep the team in the elite without the need for a revolution in the locker room.
Xavi Is Well Regarded
Nevertheless, Xavi Hernández Remains a Highly Valued Option. The Terrassa coach is determined to return to coaching as soon as possible and believes that his time at Barça did not show all his potential. He sees Bayer Leverkusen as an ideal opportunity to relaunch his career in a competitive environment and without the media pressure of Camp Nou.
Xavi Would Be Willing to Adapt His Style and Continue Evolving as a Coach, something he already hinted at during his last season in Barcelona. The Bundesliga could be the perfect context to apply his ideas with greater freedom and without so many external demands. Added to this is the appeal of coaching in the Champions League and in a club that has just become the champion of Germany for the first time in its history.
For Now, Xabi Alonso's Future Will Be Determinant, if Real Madrid decides to bet on him, an unexpected door will open for Xavi. A chain of movements that could lead the former blaugrana to occupy one of the most desired benches in Europe. Everything will depend on the decisions made in the coming weeks at Santiago Bernabéu.