"The Leverkusen board's decision to terminate my contract this morning came as a complete surprise," Ten Hag said in a statement on 1/9. "There is no precedent for a team parting ways with a coach after only two league games."
According to the Dutch coach, Leverkusen's squad has undergone significant changes this season after the departure of key players like defenders Jeremie Frimpong, Jonathan Tah, and midfielders Amine Adli, Granit Xhaka, and Florian Wirtz. In their place, the team has acquired lesser-known players like Jarell Quansah, Malik Tillman, Eliesse Ben Seghir, Loic Bade, and Lucas Vazquez.
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Coach Erik ten Hag during Leverkusen's match against Hoffenheim at BayArena, Leverkusen, Germany, in the first round of the Bundesliga on 23/8/2025. Photo: Reuters |
Coach Erik ten Hag during Leverkusen's match against Hoffenheim at BayArena, Leverkusen, Germany, in the first round of the Bundesliga on 23/8/2025. Photo: Reuters
"Building a cohesive new team is a careful process that requires both time and trust," Ten Hag added. "A new coach deserves the space to implement their vision, establish standards, shape the team, and leave their mark on the style of play."
The 55-year-old coach admitted he arrived in Germany with high expectations, but the relationship with the Leverkusen board was never based on mutual trust. "I started this job with belief and energy. Unfortunately, the board was not willing to give me the necessary time and trust, which I deeply regret," Ten Hag said.
Throughout his coaching career, Ten Hag has stayed with each team he's managed for at least a year. He has achieved notable success, including three Dutch league titles and a Champions League semi-final appearance with Ajax. At Man Utd from 2022-2024, he also led the team to win the League Cup and FA Cup.
"Every season I've been able to see through has brought success. The clubs that have placed their faith in me have been rewarded with trophies," he emphasized.
Ten Hag replaced Xabi Alonso two months ago, after the Spanish coach moved to Real Madrid. Leverkusen began the 2025-2026 Bundesliga season with a 2-1 loss to Hoffenheim and then a 3-3 draw against Bremen. Leverkusen's decision on 1/9 makes him the fastest sacked coach in the league's history.
Compiled by Hoang An.
