I want my boys back. That club is not good for them and here is why. I will do everything in my power to get them out”- Former Manchester United coach Erik ten Hag who is now the New Bayer Leverkusen’s coach has reveals why he hated his time at Manchester United and why he wanted to sign back Andre Onana, Antony and Lisandro Martinez back to Bayer Leverkusen.

Erik ten Hag Eyes Manchester United Trio for Bayer Leverkusen Rebuild

After taking the reins at Bayer Leverkusen, Erik ten Hag is reportedly keen on a bold reunion with three of his former Manchester United players—Antony, Lisandro Martínez, and André Onana—as he looks to build a side capable of dominating both domestically and in Europe.

Ten Hag, who previously worked with all three players across his spells at Ajax and Manchester United, sees the trio as central to instilling his tactical identity and raising the competitive ceiling at the Bundesliga club.

🔁 Familiar Faces, Trusted Talents

Ten Hag’s interest in reuniting with Antony, Martínez, and Onana isn’t just sentimental—it’s strategic. Each player thrived under his guidance in the past and is seen as a perfect fit for the aggressive, high-intensity, possession-based system he plans to implement at Leverkusen.

Antony, though often criticized during his time in the Premier League, was one of Ten Hag’s most dynamic attackers at Ajax. His pace, flair, and ability to cut inside and strike with his left foot made him a nightmare for Eredivisie defenders. Ten Hag believes that away from the pressure cooker of English football, Antony can rediscover his confidence and become a key attacking outlet in the Bundesliga.

Lisandro Martínez, affectionately dubbed “The Butcher of Amsterdam,” embodies Ten Hag’s defensive philosophy—aggressive, composed, and comfortable in possession. Injury setbacks hampered his time at United, but Ten Hag remains convinced of his value as a leader at the back. His left-footed distribution and ability to step into midfield suit Leverkusen’s fluid backline approach.

André Onana, meanwhile, is no stranger to German football and could be tempted by a new challenge after a rollercoaster debut season at Old Trafford. Onana’s skill with the ball at his feet and his experience playing a sweeper-keeper role make him an ideal choice to anchor Leverkusen’s buildup play from the back—something Ten Hag values immensely.

🎯 Leverkusen’s Ambition Meets Ten Hag’s Vision

Following the departure of Xabi Alonso to Liverpool, Bayer Leverkusen are eager to maintain their place among Europe’s elite. Ten Hag’s appointment is a statement of intent, and targeting proven players who already understand his demands allows for a smoother transition.

Bringing in Antony, Martínez, and Onana could also signal a cultural reset at the club, installing leaders who are not only familiar with Ten Hag’s system but are hungry to prove themselves after mixed spells at United.

💰 Transfer Realities

While no formal offers have been made, sources close to the situation suggest Leverkusen are exploring creative deal structures, including loan options with purchase obligations, to navigate Financial Fair Play limitations. United, in turn, may be open to sales as they look to reshape their own squad under new sporting leadership.

🧠 The Ten Hag Effect

This potential triple swoop is not just about talent—it’s about trust. Ten Hag has shown time and again that he values players who understand his philosophy and can execute it under pressure. Reuniting with Antony, Lisandro Martínez, and André Onana at Bayer Leverkusen could be the catalyst for another tactical revolution—this time in the heart of Germany.