Why Erik ten Hag Was Sacked by Leverkusen After Just Two Games
Erik ten Hag’s Unexpected Departure from Bayer Leverkusen
The reasons for Erik ten Hag’s abrupt sacking after just two league games with Bayer Leverkusen have recently emerged. The former Manchester United manager was taken aback by the club’s decision, which he described as “unprecedented” after only three matches in charge.
In his final game, Leverkusen faced a 3-3 draw with Werder Bremen, losing a two-goal advantage and allowing an equalizer in stoppage time. Following this, club authorities dismissed Ten Hag, citing mounting issues within the team.
Sources indicate there was growing discontent between the players and their new coach, particularly after losing several key squad members who led the team to an impressive Bundesliga and German Cup double two seasons ago. The team struggled with training methods and communication changes under Ten Hag compared to his predecessor, Xabi Alonso.
The relationship between Ten Hag and his squad worsened, leading to his dismissal.
Post-match, Ten Hag criticized the team in the dressing room, calling their performance “boys, not men,” and said they should be “embarrassed.” Leverkusen’s sporting director, Simon Rofles, explained that ongoing issues made building a successful team impossible, prompting the early intervention during the international break.
Ten Hag’s brief tenure included only one home match, a 2-1 defeat to Hoffenheim, after an initial 4-0 victory in the DFB-Pokal. In response to his departure, Ten Hag expressed surprise at the decision, emphasizing the importance of time and trust in developing a cohesive team. He stated:
‘This summer, many key players left, and forming a new team requires patience. I believed I could lead this project successfully, but the management didn’t allow me the time needed.’
He also criticized the squad’s fitness levels, stating, “Some players are not yet fit enough, and the team lacks the intensity I expect.” Despite the hardships, Ten Hag acknowledged the support from fans and wished the club success moving forward.
His departure marks his first managerial role since leaving Manchester United last October and makes him the third former United boss to be sacked within a week, following Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Jose Mourinho at their respective clubs.