Bayer Leverkusen have parted ways with Kasper Hjulmand after just one season in charge, with former Toulouse coach Carles Martinez set to take over following a disappointing 2025/26 campaign.
After only one season in charge, Bayer Leverkusen have dismissed head coach Kasper Hjulmand following a disappointing campaign that fell short of the club’s expectations both domestically and in Europe.
The 54-year-old former Denmark national team manager was appointed in September 2025 after the early departure of Erik ten Hag. His arrival was intended to stabilize the club, but results gradually declined as the season progressed, leading many to expect a managerial change once the campaign concluded.
DANKE, Kasper! 🙏
Vielen Dank für deinen Einsatz und dein Engagement. Deine herzliche und freundliche Art haben wir hier sehr geschätzt. Wir wünschen dir alles Gute für die Zukunft. Mach’s gut, Kasper Hjulmand! pic.twitter.com/sDIry7UT7M
— Bayer 04 Leverkusen (@bayer04fussball) June 4, 2026
Although Hjulmand oversaw several memorable results, including an impressive away victory against Manchester City, Leverkusen struggled to maintain consistency throughout the season. Their European journey ended earlier than anticipated with a disappointing exit from the UEFA Champions League knockout rounds.
The Bundesliga campaign also proved frustrating for the club. Leverkusen failed to secure a top-four finish and missed out on Champions League qualification, with costly defeats against teams such as Union Berlin and Augsburg damaging their ambitions.
Club chairman Werner Wenning thanked Hjulmand for his efforts and commitment during his time at the BayArena. While acknowledging achievements such as reaching the DFB-Pokal semi-finals and the Champions League round of 16, Wenning admitted that the club’s overall objectives had not been fully achieved.
Leverkusen have moved quickly to appoint a successor, confirming that Carles Martinez will take over as head coach. The Spaniard arrives with a strong reputation after his work with Toulouse and is viewed as a coach capable of guiding the club back toward competing at the highest level.
DANKE, Kasper! 🙏
Vielen Dank für deinen Einsatz und dein Engagement. Deine herzliche und freundliche Art haben wir hier sehr geschätzt. Wir wünschen dir alles Gute für die Zukunft. Mach’s gut, Kasper Hjulmand! pic.twitter.com/sDIry7UT7M
— Bayer 04 Leverkusen (@bayer04fussball) June 4, 2026
Chief executive Fernando Carro expressed confidence in the appointment, stating that Martinez’s coaching profile aligns perfectly with the club’s long-term vision of remaining among Europe’s leading teams. The club believes his tactical approach and developmental expertise can help build a stronger future.
Sporting director Simon Rolfes also praised Martinez, highlighting his success in developing young players and managing diverse squads. Drawing on experience gained at FC Barcelona’s renowned academy as well as his work in France, Martinez is expected to bring fresh ideas to Leverkusen. He will be officially unveiled at a press conference on Friday.
