Erik ten Hag was sacked by Bayer Leverkusen after only two Bundesliga games, a decision he calls “unprecedented”. He emphasizes the need for time to rebuild the squad after key player departures and expresses disappointment at the lack of trust from the management. Ten Hag thanks Leverkusen supporters and wishes the team success for the rest of the season.
Erik ten Hag has expressed his shock and disappointment following his dismissal by Bayer Leverkusen, a decision that came just two Bundesliga games into his tenure. The Dutch manager, who took over the reins at the BayArena with high expectations, was relieved of his duties in a move he describes as "unprecedented."
Ten Hag's appointment was intended to usher in a new era for Leverkusen, following the departure of Xabi Alonso. However, the club also saw significant changes in its playing personnel during the summer transfer window. Key figures such as Florian Wirtz, Granit Xhaka, and Jeremie Frimpong all moved on, leaving Ten Hag with the task of rebuilding the squad.
Despite the challenges, the club's management evidently had little patience for the rebuilding process. After Leverkusen secured just one point from their opening two league matches, the decision was made to part ways with Ten Hag. This makes him the first coach in Bundesliga history to be appointed during the off-season only to be sacked a mere two games into the subsequent campaign.
"The decision by Bayer Leverkusen’s management this morning to put me on a leave of absence came as a complete surprise," Ten Hag stated through his agency, SEG Football. "To part ways with a coach after just two league matches is unprecedented."
The former Manchester United boss acknowledged the significant changes within the squad, emphasizing the need for time and trust to build a cohesive team. "This summer, many key players who were part of past successes left the squad. Building a new, cohesive team is a careful process that requires both time and trust. A new coach deserves the space to implement his vision, set the standards, shape the squad and leave his mark on the style of play," he explained.
Ten Hag expressed his disappointment at not being given the opportunity to fully implement his plans. "I started this job with full conviction and energy, but unfortunately the management was not willing to grant me the time and trust I needed, which I deeply regret. I feel this was never a relationship based on mutual trust."
He also highlighted his track record of success when given the time and support to build a team. "Throughout my career, every season I have been able to see through to the end as a coach has brought success. Clubs that placed their trust in me have been rewarded with success and silverware."
Despite the abrupt ending to his time at Bayer Leverkusen, Ten Hag expressed his gratitude to the club's supporters. "Finally, I would like to thank the Bayer Leverkusen supporters for their warmth and passion, and I wish the squad and staff every success for the remainder of the season."
The decision to sack Ten Hag so early in the season has raised eyebrows across the footballing world. It remains to be seen who Leverkusen will appoint as his replacement and whether they can turn their fortunes around after a difficult start to the campaign. The pressure will undoubtedly be on the new manager to deliver immediate results.
Here is a relevant tweet:
2 – Erik ten Hag is the first manager in Bundesliga history to take over a team during the summer break and see his tenure end just two BL matches into the new season. Flash. pic.twitter.com/3CPr3eMYzn
— OptaFranz (@OptaFranz) September 1, 2025