Leverkusen appoint Hjulmand after Ten Hag exit

Leverkusen Appoint Hjulmand to Succeed Ten Hag

Bayer Leverkusen have confirmed the appointment of Kasper Hjulmand as their new head coach, just days after the club sacked Erik ten Hag following only two Bundesliga matches.

The 53-year-old Dane has signed a deal until summer 2027, marking a new chapter in the club’s turbulent start to the season.

Hjulmand’s Managerial Background

Hjulmand is best known for his impressive tenure with the Denmark national team, guiding them to the Euro 2020 semi-finals, where they narrowly lost to England in extra time.

Before taking the national job, Hjulmand led FC Nordsjaelland to their only Danish Superliga title in 2011–12, building a reputation for tactical innovation and nurturing young talent.

“It is an honour to be entrusted with such a team,” said Hjulmand.

“I am very motivated to help shape the future of Bayer Leverkusen with both established and exciting new players.”

The Ten Hag Fallout

Erik ten Hag’s appointment was short-lived. The former Manchester United boss joined Leverkusen this summer after Xabi Alonso’s departure to Real Madrid. However, he was dismissed on 1 September after collecting just one point from his opening two Bundesliga matches.

Leverkusen’s sporting director Simon Rolfes admitted the club had made a mistake in hiring Ten Hag, stating:

“Hiring Ten Hag was an error, but letting him continue would have been an even bigger mistake.”

Ten Hag’s dismissal was particularly jarring given the team’s high expectations following an unbeaten league and cup double in 2023–24 under Alonso.

Early Season Struggles

Leverkusen, who were Bundesliga runners-up last season, are currently languishing in 12th place with just one point from two games.

The underwhelming start created urgency for a fresh direction—something Leverkusen hopes Hjulmand can provide.

Debut Incoming: Frankfurt at Home

Hjulmand is expected to make his debut on the touchline when Leverkusen face Eintracht Frankfurt at home on Friday night.

The Dane will be tasked with reinvigorating a squad that boasts talent but appears to have lost its early-season rhythm following Alonso’s departure.