In a dramatic turn of events, Bayer Leverkusen has parted ways with head coach Erik ten Hag merely two games into the Bundesliga season. The decision follows a disappointing start, including a late collapse against 10-man Werder Bremen that saw Leverkusen surrender a 3–1 lead and settle for a draw.

Leverkusen’s sporting director Simon Rolfes stated that the current setup was “not feasible” for building a successful team, while CEO Fernando Carro described the move as “painful but necessary.” The club’s shareholders approved the dismissal based on management’s recommendation.

Ten Hag had been tasked with rebuilding the squad after a summer exodus of key players, including Lukas Hradecky and Granit Xhaka—whom he had hoped to retain. Despite high-profile signings like Eliesse Ben Seghir, Jarell Quansah, and Malik Tillman, the changes came too late to salvage his position.

The Dutch coach, renowned for his success at Ajax and a mixed tenure at Manchester United, now faces another abrupt exit in his managerial journey.