Introduction to Bayer Leverkusen’s Recent Developments
Bayer Leverkusen’s dismissal of Erik Ten HAG after only two Bundesliga games highlights the weight of transformation the club is undergoing. A little more than a year after Leverkusen celebrated a historic first league title under Xabi Alonso, the most important managers are looking for cohesion and are not willing to risk instability in the early season.
Leverkusen’s Season So Far
The team’s Bundesliga season began with a 2-1 defeat against Hoffenheim before collapsing in a 3-3 draw against 10-man Werder Bremen last weekend. The abrupt outcome of Ten HAG, which was announced on Monday, underlines the tension between the expectations and the hard realities of Leverkusen, which is rebuilding its squad and identity. Sports director Simon Rolfes admitted that the dismissal of Ten Hag was painful but inevitable, stating that building a new and successful team with the current setup has not been possible.
Ten Hag’s Departure Inevitable After Bremen Draw
Ten HAG inherited a Leverkusen squad in the summer that saw an exodus of important players: Florian Wirtz, Granit Xhaka, Jeremie Frimpong, and Jonathan Tah were sold, while Alonso moved to Real Madrid. The backbone of the team that had defined Leverkusen’s identity was gone. The integration of replacements was difficult, and early performances showed confusion rather than cohesion between players. Reports from the club pointed out tense relationships and tactical concerns, with the team’s usual urgent and counter-pressing style not present.
Reactions to Ten Hag’s Departure
Captain Robert Andrich publicly criticized his teammates after the Bremen draw, saying, "We have too many people who are only concerned with themselves… Everyone ran around the field alone." Ten HAG himself admitted the turbulence but offered few solutions, stating, "There was a big change in the team’s leadership and hierarchy. New players have to step up. We didn’t do that today."
Who Could Come Next?
With the international break, Leverkusen’s Rogier Meijer and Andries Ulderink are temporarily in charge of the first team. The search for Ten Hag’s replacement is underway, with CESC Fabregas, currently heading Italian side Como, reportedly a leading candidate. Fabregas has publicly indicated a willingness to leave Como, promoting speculation that Leverkusen could be his next destination. Another option is former Barcelona head coach Xavi Hernandez, who is organized with Leverkusen’s offensive football philosophy. Imanol Alguacil, another Spaniard, is also considered a possible outsider, known for his aggressive and urgent style that fits with Leverkusen’s core identity.
