Two coaches but only one job

Bayer Leverkusen coach Kasper Hjulmand knows that his replacement is imminent. The Dane was available at the start of the season and the former Bundesliga champion called him when Eric ten Hag was dismissed after only three games. But since winning the league two seasons ago, the German club has raised the success bar higher and finishing in sixth place this season wasn’t enough for them. So, they are planing to replace Hjumland, but still haven’t sacked him. He is waiting, knowing his time is up, while the club is finalizing their next coach. Leverkusen has two excellent candidates and is negotiation with both: Oliver Glasner and Andoni Iraola.

Iraola has suitors in Germany

According to Bild, the Austrian manager is the prime candidate to take over from Hjumland, and the negotiations are on the way. CEO Fernando Carro and sporting director Simon Rolfes already had extensive discussions with Glasner years ago and they all know each other. Glasner didn’t want to distract himself from the Conference League final and put all talks on hold until Crystal Palace won the game. Now talks are under way and Leverkusen want his reply until end of May/beginning of June.

Glasner's larger-than-life Treble with until-then trophyless Eagles

Should the Austrian decline the offer, Iraola remains the preferred alternative. Bayer is also trying to reach an agreement with him. However, the current Bournemouth coach is also Crystal Palace's first choice to succeed Glasner. When he officially decided to leave Bournemouth at the end of the season, the Spanish tactician had numerous options: his boyhood club Athletic Bilbao, Manchester United (Carrick was not the permanent manager back then) and even Chelsea, as it was evident that Liam Rosenior was not gonna stay. But in the end, he could end up in Palace, a club similar size (and quality) as Bournemouth.