Erik ten Hag reveals failed attempt to sign Garnacho for Bayer Leverkusen

Erik ten Hag has revealed he tried to sign Alejandro Garnacho for Bayer Leverkusen during his brief tenure as manager in the summer of 2025, but the move did not materialise.

Erik ten Hag has revealed his failed attempt to sign Alejandro Garnacho for Bayer Leverkusen. The Dutch coach, who took over at Leverkusen in the summer of 2025, tried to bring the Argentine winger from Aston Villa in July of that year, as he has now stated.

Ten Hag had returned to management after being sacked by Manchester United in October 2024. His time at Leverkusen was brief, however, as he was dismissed after just two Bundesliga matches. The 56-year-old has now spoken about his unsuccessful pursuit of the 22-year-old attacker. "He's a character, you have to manage him, but I had a strong connection with him," Ten Hag said.

The former United boss described Garnacho as "a little bit selfish" but also as someone capable of "incredible things". He stressed the player needs a coach who will give him trust and love and ensure discipline. Ten Hag expressed regret that the move did not happen, explaining that Garnacho wanted to stay in England because it is the best league.

Garnacho's current situation in England

Plans for a potential Leverkusen career for Garnacho are impacted by his current situation in the Premier League. The forward has not played in the league since September 5 and was recently omitted from the Aston Villa squad for their 2-1 win at Newcastle United. This season he has made only four substitute appearances, totalling 42 minutes. His last outing was on October 15 in the Europa League against Fenerbahce, where he came on for the final 11 minutes.

Ten Hag also commented on his time at Manchester United, criticising that promises of loyalty and communication made to him were not kept. He particularly regretted the sale of Scott McTominay to Napoli in the summer of 2024, which happened against his wishes.

Leverkusen on a strong run

While Garnacho struggles in England, Bayer Leverkusen are in a rich vein of form. The team under Xabi Alonso, who succeeded Ten Hag, sits 4th in the Bundesliga with 13 points from six games, just one point behind leaders Bayern Munich. The side is on a five-game winning streak in the league, most recently beating SC Freiburg 2-1. Patrik Schick, who provided an assist and scored in the Freiburg match, is the current top scorer with six goals this season.

Leverkusen's next fixture is away at 14th-placed TSG 1899 Hoffenheim on October 25. Garnacho, who has yet to score or assist in 60 minutes for Leverkusen this 2026/27 season, was intended to be integrated into this successful squad.