Key Takeaways:
- Erik ten Hag was dismissed by Bayer Leverkusen after only two league matches, making this the fastest managerial sacking in Bundesliga history
- Ten Hag’s contract, intended to run for two years after taking over on July 1, was terminated on September 1 following a short three-game spell including one cup win, one league defeat, and one league draw
- He is the third former Manchester United manager to lose his job within a week, with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer departing Besiktas and Jose Mourinho leaving Fenerbahce
Brief Tenure Ends Abruptly
Erik ten Hag has become the subject of an unprecedented Bundesliga departure, having been removed from his post at Bayer Leverkusen after managing only three matches. The Dutchman, installed as head coach on 1 July following his exit from Manchester United in October 2024, was tasked with succeeding Xabi Alonso after he left for Real Madrid. However, Leverkusen ended his two-year contract early, with confirmation of the decision arriving on 1 September.
| Date | Competition | Opponent | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| August 2025 | German Cup | SG Sonnenhof Grossaspach | Win |
| August 2025 | Bundesliga | Hoffenheim | 2-1 Loss |
| August 2025 | Bundesliga | Werder Bremen | 3-3 Draw |
Historic Speed of Dismissal
Ten Hag’s exit outpaces the previous Bundesliga record for earliest managerial departure, which had stood at five matches. In his short spell, the Dutchman oversaw a first-round German Cup victory against SG Sonnenhof Grossaspach, followed by a 2-1 league defeat to Hoffenheim and a high-scoring 3-3 draw with Werder Bremen.
The managerial change comes in a tumultuous period for former Manchester United coaches: Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has also exited Besiktas, and Jose Mourinho has parted ways with Fenerbahce—all within a single week.
Ten Hag’s Reaction and Reflections
The club’s decision has prompted a strong reaction from Ten Hag, who says, “The decision by Bayer Leverkusen’s management this morning to put me on a leave of absence came as a complete surprise. To part ways with a coach after just two league matches is unprecedented.
“This summer, many key players who were part of past successes left the squad. Building a new, cohesive team is a careful process that requires both time and trust. A new coach deserves the space to implement his vision, set the standards, shape the squad and leave his mark on the style of play.
“I started this job with full conviction and energy, but unfortunately the management was not willing to grant me the time and trust I needed, which I deeply regret. I feel this was never a relationship based on mutual trust.
“Throughout my career, every season I have been able to see through to the end as a coach has brought success. Clubs that placed their trust in me have been rewarded with success and silverware.
“Finally, I would like to thank the Bayer Leverkusen supporters for their warmth and passion, and I wish the squad and staff every success for the remainder of the season.”
Next Steps for Leverkusen
Simon Rolfes, Leverkusen’s managing director, has commented that “nobody wanted to take this step” but acknowledged, “the past few weeks have shown that building a new and successful team with this set-up is not feasible”. The search for a new head coach at the BayArena is now underway as Leverkusen aim to stabilise their season following a turbulent start.
