Bayer Leverkusen appoints Kasper Hjulmand as their new head coach, replacing Erik ten Hag, who was dismissed after only two Bundesliga games. Hjulmand signed a contract that runs until 2027.
The 53-year-old Dane, who previously coached Denmark’s national team, said, “I feel motivated to shape the club’s future and honored to hold this role.” He will debut on the bench when Leverkusen host Eintracht Frankfurt on Friday.
Leverkusen endured a turbulent start to the season after firing Ten Hag on September 1. Sporting director Simon Rolfes admitted hiring the former Manchester United manager was a mistake but argued that keeping him would have been “an even bigger mistake.” The club managed just one point in its first two matches.
Ten Hag called his dismissal “unprecedented” and “a complete surprise.” He had succeeded Xabi Alonso, who left for Real Madrid after guiding Leverkusen to an undefeated double; the Bundesliga and DFB-Pokal, in 2023-24.
Officials chose Hjulmand, who led Denmark to the Euro 2021 semi-finals and Euro 2024 round of 16, over Ange Postecoglou, Xavi, and Raul.Rolfes said the new coach will pursue “ambitious national and international goals” while implementing a dominant playing style.
Hjulmand managed Mainz in the 2014-15 Bundesliga season before the club dismissed him after a poor run. He also guided Nordsjaelland to their first-ever Danish title in 2012.
After facing Frankfurt, Leverkusen will travel to Copenhagen to open their Champions League campaign against the reigning champions.
