Bayer Leverkusen target Oliver Glasner for managerial role

Bayer Leverkusen are set to hold talks with Oliver Glasner as they intensify their search for a new head coach. 

The meeting comes less than 48 hours after Glasner guided Crystal Palace to UEFA Conference League glory, highlighting the Austrian’s rapid rise in demand.

The timing reflects Leverkusen’s urgent need for stability following a disappointing 2025/26 Bundesliga campaign.

Bayer Leverkusen finished fifth, missing out on Champions League qualification after managing just five wins in their final 13 league matches. 

The slip in form ended their hopes of securing top-tier European football next season and prompted the search for fresh leadership.

Filipe Luís had been the club’s primary target. However, the Brazilian, recently dismissed by Flamengo in March, is now poised to take charge at AS Monaco. 

With that avenue closing, Leverkusen have turned their attention to other options, and Glasner has emerged as a leading candidate.

German media reports indicate that discussions between Bayer and Glasner’s representatives are already advancing. 

A formal face-to-face meeting between the club and the 51-year-old Austrian is scheduled for Friday. This development marks a significant step in Leverkusen’s recruitment process.

Notably, the interest is not entirely new. Bayer Leverkusen CEO Fernando Carro and sporting director Simon Rolfes had held preliminary discussions with Glasner several years ago during his tenure at Eintracht Frankfurt. 

Those talks took place before the club appointed Xabi Alonso in 2022, suggesting Glasner has long been on their radar as a tactical and motivational fit.

Glasner’s success at Crystal Palace, culminating in the recent European triumph, has further enhanced his reputation. 

Known for his organized defensive structures and ability to maximize squad potential, he could bring the consistency Leverkusen require to rebound from their late-season slump.

The upcoming meeting will be pivotal in determining whether Glasner becomes the next man to lead the ambitious German side. 

As negotiations progress, Leverkusen fans will be watching closely for confirmation of their new coach ahead of the next competitive season.