Key Takeaways:
- Bayer Leverkusen secured just five victories from their final 13 Bundesliga fixtures of the 2025/26 season
- Kasper Hjulmand’s team concluded the campaign in sixth place, missing out on Champions League qualification
- Bayer Leverkusen have entered discussions with Filipe Luís regarding the head coach position following his departure from Flamengo
Leverkusen’s Late-Season Struggles and Search for a New Manager
Bayer Leverkusen endured a challenging conclusion to their 2025/26 Bundesliga campaign, recording only five wins across their final 13 matches. This run of form saw the club finish in sixth position, trailing behind both VfB Stuttgart and Hoffenheim. As a result of this placement, Leverkusen will not participate in next season’s Champions League.
Kasper Hjulmand, who took over from Erik ten Hag in September, may soon be replaced, as the club actively seeks a new head coach.
🚨💣 EXCL | Filipe Luis is currently the top favourite to become the new Bayer 04 Leverkusen head coach to replace Kasper Hjulmand.
Negotiations have started. Leverkusen also have concrete option B and C on the shortlist, but Luis is currently the clear priority target. The plan… pic.twitter.com/3Ph3NbmXKM
— Florian Plettenberg (@Plettigoal) May 27, 2026
Filipe Luís Emerges as the Top Candidate
According to Sky Germany, Bayer Leverkusen have held negotiations with Filipe Luís regarding the head coach role. While two other unnamed candidates remain under consideration, the Brazilian is reportedly the leading option for the German outfit.
Luís assumed the managerial post at Flamengo in September 2024. During his tenure, he guided the team to both a league title and Copa Libertadores triumph. Despite this success, the 40-year-old – well known from his playing days at Atlético Madrid – was dismissed from his role in March of this year.
| Manager | Previous Club | Tenure | Trophies Won | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kasper Hjulmand | Bayer Leverkusen | Since September 2025 | None | Expected Departure |
| Filipe Luís | Flamengo | September 2024 – March 2026 | League title, Copa Libertadores | Negotiating with Bayer Leverkusen |
Potential Leadership Change Ahead
Should Bayer Leverkusen finalise an agreement with Filipe Luís, it will mark a significant shift as the club looks to rebound from a disappointing season and reestablish their Champions League credentials.
