Bayer 04 Leverkusen can confirm that Erik ten Hag has been relieved of his duties as head coach, effective immediately. The decision was made by the club’s executive board this morning following a series of disappointing performances at the start of the 2025/26 Bundesliga campaign.
Ten Hag, who joined the club in May as successor to Xabi Alonso, oversaw just two league matches and one cup fixture. Despite early optimism, Leverkusen suffered a 2–1 home defeat to Hoffenheim and squandered a 3–1 lead against ten-man Werder Bremen to draw 3–3, leaving the team languishing in the bottom half of the table.
Club officials met early Monday to assess the situation and concluded that a change in leadership was necessary to realign with the club’s ambitions for the season. Ten Hag was informed of the decision shortly thereafter.
“We thank Erik for his efforts and professionalism during his brief tenure,” said sporting director Simon Rolfes. “This was not an easy decision, but one we felt was essential to protect the integrity and trajectory of our campaign.”
The Dutch manager’s short stint was marked by internal tensions, tactical inconsistencies, and a lack of cohesion on the pitch. Several key players departed during the summer transfer window, and the squad struggled to adapt to Ten Hag’s methods.