DutchmanErik ten Hag, who has only managed Bayer Leverkusen in only eight matches, including friendlies, has been dropped by the German club. The decision was made by the club’s hierarchy early this morning. Erik, who has conceded 5 goals just two games into the league, was laid off, as he had gotten no wins for the club so far. It seems unfair to let the Dutch leave so soon with all the changes going on in the club. The dismissal is a record as the earliest sack in Bundesliga history, as previously there had been no coach who didn’t last for at least 4 league games.
What went wrong?
Erik ten Hag faced a separation before the end of Deadline Day as a result of his poor performance and internal pressure following a loss at home to Hoffenheim on their opening day in addition to a draw away this Saturday, after losing a 3-1 lead to Werder Bremen, who had been hampered by Niklas Stark’s red card. So far, Leverkusen is placed in the 12th position in the league table with just a point from their game at Bremen. Some of the fault could be attributed to the dynamics of the squad, as the likes of Wirtz, Frimpong, Xhaka, Tah, Amine Adli, Hincapie, and Kossounou had been sold off without proper replacement on the team.
Sporting Director Simon Rolfes pointed out that building a new and successful team with Erik ten Hag’s lineup couldn’t be done effectively. He further stated that they believed in the quality of their team and were now vested in doing everything within their power to ensure their development.
CEO Fernando Carro believes that a separation at the early stage of the season was a necessary evil to achieve the club’s goals for this season.
The assistant coaching staff will have to take over for the time being. However, training has been postponed this morning.
A few things to know about Erik ten Hag
Erik led Manchester United to two trophies, the Carabao Cup in 2023 and the FA Cup in 2024 but was sacked in October 2024 when United placed 14th on the league table.
Before taking over at United, Ten Hag had a highly successful career at Ajax. The Dutchman, who won three Eredivisie titles, guided his team to the Champions League semi-finals in the 2018/19 league season.
While this situation doesn’t reflect well on anyone, the club, or ten Hag, this quick decision is not necessarily a wrong one for both parties. This parting will usher in a fresh perspective for ten Hag and the German side.
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