In a decision that has stunned German football, Bayer Leverkusen have sacked Erik ten Hag after only three matches in charge. The news, confirmed on September 1, 2025, comes as a shock to fans and pundits alike, given the Dutchman had only just begun his tenure in May. The club is now actively searching for a new manager, with speculation already swirling about potential successors.

A Rocky Start for Ten Hag at Leverkusen

Ten Hag arrived at Leverkusen in the summer, succeeding Xabi Alonso on a two-year deal. Expectations were cautiously optimistic, but his reign was undermined from the start.

• Preseason woes: The club endured a disastrous pre-season, including a humiliating 5-1 defeat against Flamengo’s U20 side.
  
• Bundesliga struggles: The campaign opened with a 2-1 home defeat to Hoffenheim, followed by a chaotic 3-3 draw with Werder Bremen. In that match, Leverkusen squandered a two-goal advantage and even had a man advantage, only to concede an equalizer in the 94th minute.
  

The draw against Bremen was seen as the tipping point. A public row between players over who should take a penalty, which Ten Hag later labeled “unacceptable,” highlighted a lack of authority and control within the squad.

Squad Overhaul and Internal Chaos

Ten Hag’s position was made even more difficult by the mass exodus of key players during the summer transfer window.

• Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong, Granit Xhaka, Jonathan Tah, and Lukas Hradecky all departed.
  
• The sales brought in over €200 million, but the replacements — including Jarell Quansah, Malik Tillman, and Mark Flekken — were still adapting.
  

This left Ten Hag with a squad in full rebuild mode. Despite the transition, the Leverkusen board expected immediate stability and results — expectations Ten Hag could not meet.

Board Statements: Painful But “Necessary”

Leverkusen’s CEO Fernando Carro admitted the decision was harsh but unavoidable:

“Ending the partnership so early is painful, but necessary for the future of the club.”

Sporting director Simon Rolfes added:

“The last days have shown us that building a successful team under the current circumstances was not feasible.”

Assistant coach Rogier Meijer has temporarily taken over training sessions while the club searches for a permanent replacement.

Why Was Leverkusen So Ruthless?

The ruthlessness of the decision surprised many, even in a results-driven sport. But context matters:

• Under Xabi Alonso, Leverkusen achieved unprecedented success, winning the Bundesliga undefeated and lifting the DFB-Pokal.
  
• The fall in performances under Ten Hag was therefore stark.
  
• The board and fans were unwilling to accept regression, even if the squad had been rebuilt.
  

Ten Hag’s past struggles at Manchester United also weighed against him, fueling perceptions that he was not the right fit for a long-term rebuild.

Who Should Replace Ten Hag at Bayer Leverkusen?

With the vacancy now open, attention turns to potential candidates. Here are the leading options:

1. Xabi Alonso (The Dream Return)

The architect of Leverkusen’s greatest-ever season, Xabi Alonso would be the fans’ favorite. His tactical system, deep knowledge of the club, and proven success make him the ideal choice. However, Alonso is currently managing Real Madrid, making his return unlikely — at least in the short term.

2. Rising German Coaches

Leverkusen may opt for a younger German coach with experience developing youth and playing attacking football. Names like Marco Rose or Manuel Baum could be considered. Their adaptability and tactical acumen suit Leverkusen’s philosophy.

3. Internal Solution: Rogier Meijer

Currently serving as interim manager, Meijer could stabilize the team while the board carefully evaluates long-term candidates. Promoting from within would ensure continuity during this turbulent moment.

4. A Bold Outside Pick

Leverkusen’s model has always been about forward-thinking football. A progressive coach with international experience and an attacking mindset could be the surprise solution — much like when Alonso was first hired.

Final Thoughts

The sacking of Erik ten Hag after just three matches is one of the most abrupt managerial decisions in recent Bundesliga history. While many argue the board acted too harshly — especially given the mass player sales and transition period — Bayer Leverkusen’s high standards leave little room for patience.

The next appointment will be crucial. The ideal candidate must bring stability, rebuild the squad’s identity, and maintain the competitive standards set by Alonso. Whether that means a bold external hire, a return for Alonso, or an internal solution, one thing is clear: Leverkusen cannot afford another misstep.

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