Raúl González, the former Real Madrid legend, has become a prominent candidate to take over as head coach of Bayer Leverkusen following the dismissal of Dutch coach Erik ten Hag, as the German club seeks a quick replacement to restore balance after a shaky start in the Bundesliga.

Spanish newspaper “Marca” reported that Bayer Leverkusen’s management has shortlisted three names to lead the team: Raúl González, Marco Rose, and Edin Terzić, with a final decision expected before the end of this week, taking advantage of the international break.

The newspaper noted that Raúl’s nomination is supported by his experience in German football, having had a successful playing stint with Schalke, in addition to his tactical style based on defensive discipline and realism on the pitch, which the management sees as suitable for the team’s current situation.

Raúl left coaching Real Madrid Castilla after six years overseeing the club’s reserve team, gaining significant experience in working with young talents and developing their abilities, making him an attractive option for Leverkusen officials.

Bayer Leverkusen announced the dismissal of Dutch coach Ten Hag after a disappointing start in the German league, where the team drew one match and lost two others against Hoffenheim and Werder Bremen, earning only one point out of a possible six, which hastened his departure.