Erik ten Hag expresses shock and disappointment after being sacked by Bayer Leverkusen.

Erik ten Hag’s tenure at Bayer Leverkusen was cut short after just two Bundesliga matches, with the club’s management deciding to part ways with him due to underwhelming performances. Ten Hag described the decision as a “complete surprise,” stating that he had been given neither the time nor trust needed to implement his vision and build a successful team.

The Dutch manager had taken over at Leverkusen in May, replacing Xabi Alonso, who left to join Real Madrid. Despite the challenge of replacing a highly successful manager, Ten Hag was confident in his ability to lead the team to success. However, Leverkusen’s summer exodus of key players, including Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong, and Granit Xhaka, made his task significantly more difficult.

Ten Hag emphasised the importance of trust and time in building a cohesive team, stating, “Building a new, cohesive team is a careful process that requires both time and trust.” Unfortunately, he felt that Leverkusen’s management did not provide him with the necessary support, leading to a relationship based on mistrust.

The sacking comes after Leverkusen’s poor start to the season, with one point from their first two league matches. Despite winning their German Cup opener 4-0 against SG Sonnenhof Grossaspach, the team’s league performances fell short of expectations. 

Leverkusen sporting director Simon Rolfes explained that the decision to sack Ten Hag was unavoidable, citing concerns about the team’s direction. Ten Hag’s departure marks the shortest managerial reign in Bundesliga history.

Throughout his career, Ten Hag has enjoyed success at Ajax Amsterdam, winning three Eredivisie titles and taking the club to the Champions League semifinals in 2019. He believes that clubs that place their trust in him are rewarded with success and silverware, highlighting the importance of a strong manager-club relationship.