Raúl González on Bayer Leverkusen’s radar to replace Erik Ten Hag
Bayer Leverkusen are considering Real Madrid legend Raúl González as their new head coach following the dismissal of Erik ten Hag. According to Marca, the Spanish manager is among the leading candidates after the club’s failed attempt to convince Xavi Hernández, who declined the proposal.
From Madrid’s Youth Academy to Leverkusen’s Shortlist
Raúl, 48, has spent the last six seasons coaching at Real Madrid’s youth academy, primarily in charge of Castilla. During his tenure, he has overseen 209 matches, recording 82 wins, 70 draws, and 57 defeats, with a 50.3% success rate.
His most notable achievement came in the 2019–20 season, when he led Real Madrid’s U-19s to their first UEFA Youth League title, defeating Benfica 3-2 in the final. That squad featured future stars such as Miguel Gutiérrez, while PSG striker Gonçalo Ramos scored twice for the Portuguese side.
Although Raúl’s later years at Castilla focused more on player development than silverware, Bayer Leverkusen see him as a promising project much like they did with former coach Xabi Alonso.
Ten Hag’s Exit Creates Vacancy
Bayer Leverkusen officially dismissed Erik ten Hag on September 1 after just two Bundesliga rounds, making him the fastest-sacked coach in league history. The Dutchman openly criticized the board but thanked the club’s supporters in his farewell message.
Leverkusen are now actively searching for a long-term replacement. Xavi Hernández was their first choice, but his refusal has led the board to turn toward Raúl, a figure admired in European football for his leadership and youth development experience.
A Career Leap for Raúl?
If appointed, the former striker would take charge of a professional first-team for the first time, marking a major step forward in his managerial career. For Leverkusen, betting on Raúl would mean once again trusting a young, ambitious coach with strong ties to Spanish football and a clear record of working with emerging talents.
