Hopefully, Erik Ten Hak doesn't let Leverkusen slump this season, because it would be a shame if he failed again like he did when he took over at Manchester United. Keeping up with Bayern Munich might be difficult because they are currently so strong, and I think Leverkusen must be able to keep up with Dortmund if they want to finish second. Chasing the Bundesliga trophy is almost impossible at the moment, because Leverkusen has lost more of their key players following the departure of Xabi Alonso, so it will be very difficult for Erik Ten Hak to strengthen the team in his first season.
Finding second place in the Bundesliga next season will likely also be quite difficult for Leverkusen if the quality of their players has declined. Because a team like Dortmund is a team that frequently finishes in the top four of the Bundesliga, Leverkusen will have to compete fiercely for a top-four finish, as finishing second will not be easy for Leverkusen next season. I have even more confidence in Dortmund for that position, as I currently still doubt Leverkusen's ability to secure that position by the end of next season.
Yes, ETH is not Xabi Alonso. But how could anyone deny that he is a proven winner! Don't forget about his 3 league titles & cups with Ajax, & now he is going to give his footstep on Leverkusen through mid‑2027. You know the Werkself is still be proud with league top scorer Patrik Schick, also Florian Wirtz is remaining under contract. This Patrik Schick netted 21 Bundesliga goal last season.
Also remember Die Werkself finished 2nd to Bayern last season with only a midteen point gap. So effective squad groundwork is underway, it is so much sensible talk to challenge Dortmund for the top two, it is not wishful thinking at all. So, betting against them would be such a naive decision.