Erik ten Hag, now at the helm of Bayer Leverkusen, is reportedly eyeing a reunion with three players he knows well from his time at Manchester United and Ajax: Antony, Lisandro Martínez, and André Onana. His goal is to craft a squad that can compete at the highest level in both the Bundesliga and European competitions, and he believes this trio can help make that vision a reality.
Having coached all three at various stages, Ten Hag trusts their abilities and sees them as crucial to implementing his tactical approach, which emphasizes intensity, pressing, and fluid ball movement. Antony, despite an underwhelming spell at United, was a standout under Ten Hag at Ajax. His speed, technical flair, and ability to cut in from the right wing made him a persistent threat, and his former manager feels that a move away from the scrutiny of English football could reignite the Brazilian’s confidence and effectiveness.
Lisandro Martínez, known for his aggressive defending and composure on the ball, was a key figure in Ten Hag’s defensive line at both Ajax and United. Though injuries limited his impact in England, the Argentine is still seen as a natural leader and fits perfectly into a backline that prioritizes ball progression and tactical flexibility.
André Onana, who has prior experience in German football, is another name Ten Hag trusts deeply. Despite a turbulent first season at Old Trafford, his ability to operate as a ball-playing goalkeeper makes him well-suited to Ten Hag’s possession-heavy philosophy. His familiarity with the coach’s system could make him a key figure in Leverkusen’s new era.
Ten Hag’s arrival at Leverkusen comes in the wake of Xabi Alonso’s departure to Liverpool, and the club is determined to stay competitive at the top level. Signing players already attuned to Ten Hag’s style offers a seamless integration into his system and could help set a new tone within the squad. All three targets are also eager for a fresh start after inconsistent spells at United, and a move to Germany could serve as a revitalizing step in their careers.
Though formal negotiations have yet to begin, sources suggest Leverkusen are weighing various financial strategies, including loans with obligations to buy, to stay within Financial Fair Play rules. Manchester United, undergoing a squad rebuild of their own, might be open to offers if the terms are favorable.
Ultimately, this potential triple move is as much about familiarity and trust as it is about skill. Ten Hag has always preferred players who understand his demands and can carry them out under pressure. A reunion with Antony, Martínez, and Onana could provide the foundation for his next ambitious project—this time in the heart of Germany’s top flight.
