Bayer Leverkusen have named Danish coach Kasper Hjulmand as their new manager on a deal running until 2027, following the dismissal of Erik ten Hag after just two Bundesliga matches.
Hjulmand, who previously managed Denmark, expressed his excitement at taking charge: “It is an honour to be entrusted with such a team. I’m motivated to shape the future of the club.”
His appointment ends a turbulent two weeks for Leverkusen, who dismissed Ten Hag on September 1. The former Manchester United boss had replaced Xabi Alonso, who led the club to an unbeaten league and cup double in 2023-24 before moving to Real Madrid.
Sporting director Simon Rolfes admitted hiring Ten Hag had been a mistake, but insisted continuing with him would have been “an even bigger mistake.” The club, last season’s runners-up, managed just one point from their opening two games.
Ten Hag described his sacking as “unprecedented” and “a complete surprise.”
Hjulmand is set to debut on the bench in Friday’s home clash against Eintracht Frankfurt. He beat out candidates including former Barcelona coach Xavi, ex-Spurs boss Ange Postecoglou, and Raul, who recently coached Real Madrid’s B team.
The 53-year-old guided Denmark to the Euro 2021 semi-finals and the last 16 at Euro 2024 before stepping down in July. He previously led Nordsjaelland to their first Danish title in 2012 and had a brief spell at Mainz in 2014-15.
Rolfes said the new coach would bring “a clear and dominant style of play” while pushing the club toward “the most ambitious national and international goals.”
After Frankfurt, Leverkusen begin their Champions League campaign away to Danish champions Copenhagen.
