I'm experiencing similar hesitations. Bayer Leverkusen may not be the same this year. They already lost the first leg at home to Hoffenheim. This was one of the manager's less serious tests, and he lost it. There's been a lot of concern about how well he can perform against more serious and powerful teams. The fans are also unhappy with this situation. Their chances of winning the title this year are practically zero, in my opinion. If they can make it to the Champions League next year, they'll consider themselves lucky.
I don't see any reason to have high hopes for Bayer Leverkusen. This team is mediocre. They have performed well in the last two seasons, so it is unlikely that they will do well this season. The scenario is completely different this season.
They don't have a skillfull coach like Xabi Alonso. I have no faith in ten hag's ability. He took Manchester United to a terrible state. So I don't think Leverkusen will do well with such a coach. Moreover, we have not seen a good performance from the team in friendly matches. They lost their first match of the Bundesliga against a small team like Hoffenheim. Leverkusen lost their last point against this team in 2022.