Erik ten Hag became Bayer Leverkusen boss after signing a two-year contract in May

Ten Hag Loses Bundesliga Debut as Leverkusen Fall 2-1 to Hoffenheim

Erik ten Hag endured a tough start to life in the Bundesliga as his Bayer Leverkusen side suffered a 2-1 home defeat against Hoffenheim on the opening weekend of the season.

Quansah’s Dream Start Turns Sour

Leverkusen made the perfect start when Jarell Quansah, signed from Liverpool last month for £35m, headed home Alejandro Grimaldo’s free-kick just six minutes into his debut.

But Hoffenheim responded strongly. Fisnik Asllani equalised with a powerful near-post strike before turning provider as Tim Lemperle fired in the winner to seal victory for Christian Ilzer’s side.

Despite chances for Grimaldo and Nathan Tella, Ten Hag’s men couldn’t find a way back. The result marks a disappointing start for Leverkusen, who finished second last season, 13 points behind champions Bayern Munich.

Dortmund Held in Six-Goal Thriller

Elsewhere, Borussia Dortmund were held 3-3 by St Pauli in a dramatic clash.

Serhou Guirassy opened the scoring but later missed a penalty.
Andreas Hountondji and Waldemar Anton traded goals before Julian Brandt extended Dortmund’s lead.
A late red card for Filippo Mane turned the game, with Danel Sinani and Eric Smith striking late to rescue a point for the hosts.

Former Sunderland midfielder Jobe Bellingham made his Bundesliga debut for Dortmund but was withdrawn at half-time.

What’s Next?

Ten Hag will be under pressure to deliver a swift response as Leverkusen look to mount another title challenge, while Dortmund’s defensive lapses raise questions ahead of a demanding campaign.