Erik ten Hag, the former Manchester United manager, has expressed shock after being dismissed by Bayer Leverkusen following only two league matches in charge, marking the shortest managerial tenure in Bundesliga history. The Dutch coach described his sacking as “a complete surprise” and criticized the club’s hierarchy for not allowing him the necessary time to implement his vision and rebuild the squad amid a summer exodus of key players.
Ten Hag took over the reins at Leverkusen on July 1, 2025, after Xabi Alonso left the club for Real Madrid, signing a two-year deal with ambitions of restoring the team’s competitive edge in both domestic and European competitions. His brief tenure included a German Cup victory over SG Sonnenhof Grossaspach, a 2-1 league defeat to Hoffenheim, and a 3-3 draw against Werder Bremen, culminating in the club terminating his contract on September 1, 2025.
The former Manchester United boss, known for winning both the Carabao Cup and FA Cup during his time at Old Trafford, released a strongly worded statement emphasizing that coaches deserve time and trust to properly integrate their philosophy and systems. “To part ways with a coach after just two league matches is unprecedented,” Ten Hag said. “A new coach deserves the time and trust to implement his vision. I regret that the management was not willing to grant me this opportunity.”
His abrupt exit adds to a string of recent managerial casualties involving former United coaches. Within the same week, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer departed from Besiktas and Jose Mourinho was removed from his position at Fenerbahce, highlighting the increasing volatility in football management.
Leverkusen’s sporting director, Simon Rolfes, defended the club’s decision, stating, “The past few weeks have shown that building a new and successful team with this set-up is not feasible. We appreciate Erik’s efforts, but we have to make difficult decisions in the best interest of the club.”
The Bundesliga side has already commenced the search for a replacement, exploring both domestic and international managerial options as they aim to stabilize the team before the league season intensifies. Fans and analysts alike are watching closely to see who will be entrusted with leading Leverkusen forward following the dramatic departure of Ten Hag.[/p>