Bayer Leverkusen have parted ways with head coach Erik Ten Hag after only two league matches, following a shaky start to the 2025–26 Bundesliga season.
The club’s decision came in the wake of a 3–3 draw against 10-man Werder Bremen, during which Leverkusen blew a 3–1 lead, exposing problems with team discipline and on-field leadership. The defeat followed an earlier 2–1 home loss to Hoffenheim, compounding concerns about the team’s performance.
Ten Hag, who took over from Xabi Alonso in May on a contract running through 2027, had begun his tenure with a 4–0 DFB-Pokal victory over SG Sonnenhof Großaspach. However, the disappointing start in the league led to his swift dismissal.
Assistant coach Rogier Meijer will take temporary charge of training sessions while the club searches for a permanent replacement.
Ten Hag’s sacking marks another managerial exit among former Manchester United bosses, following recent departures of José Mourinho and Ole Gunnar Solskjær from their respective clubs.
Leverkusen’s turbulent start this season underscores the high expectations at the Bundesliga club and its intolerance for early-season setbacks.
