Bayer Leverkusen have officially parted ways with coach Erik ten Hag after just three competitive games in charge[1]. The decision, announced on September 1, 2025, comes after a disappointing start to the Bundesliga season, where the team managed only one point from their first two matches: a 1-2 loss against Hoffenheim and a 3-3 draw with Werder Bremen, despite holding a two-goal lead and having a man advantage in the latter[1][5]. Ten Hag, who signed a two-year contract in the summer as a replacement for Xabi Alonso, also led Leverkusen to a 4-0 win over Grossaspach in the DFB-Pokal first round[1]. However, according to the club’s management, the environment had become untenable amid persistent dressing room discord and instability in the playing squad[3]. An interim coaching team will take over training duties until a new head coach is appointed during the international break[3].
In transfer news, Leverkusen completed the signing of Eliesse Ben Seghir from AS Monaco for a fee reportedly worth €32 million plus €5 million in bonuses and a sell-on clause[2]. Ben Seghir, considered an exceptional young talent, has signed a contract until 2030 and leaves Monaco after registering 15 goals in 85 appearances[4]. The 20-year-old Moroccan international brings creativity and technical skill to Leverkusen’s midfield, a move hailed by the club’s sporting management as a “long sought-after” deal[4]. Ben Seghir himself expressed enthusiasm about experiencing Bundesliga football after his time in Ligue 1[4].
Meanwhile, Leverkusen are undergoing a significant squad overhaul with potential departures before the transfer deadline. Piero Hincapié is attracting attention from Arsenal, and a loan deal with an obligation to buy is being discussed as Arsenal hesitates to meet his €60 million release clause[6]. Arthur is also linked with a move to Paris FC following the arrival of Lucas Vázquez, while Jonas Hofmann could leave if Leverkusen secure another key signing[6]. Victor Boniface is reportedly drawing interest from Gulf clubs, and Aleix García‘s rumored departure to West Ham might depend on Leverkusen’s efforts to sign Quinten Timber from Feyenoord[6]. The newly acquired Faris Alfa-Ruprecht could also be sent out on loan as the club seeks the right balance in the squad[6].
References
- [1] Bayer Leverkusen officially confirm ten Hag sacking – OneFootball
- [2] Bayer Leverkusen curses signing with Moroccan Eliesse Ben Seghir – Foot Africa
- [3] Official | Erik ten Hag sacked by Bayer Leverkusen after two games – Get German Football News
- [4] Official: Leverkusen complete Ben Seghir transfer – Bulinews
- [5] Multiple reports: Erik ten Hag sacked by Bayer Leverkusen – Bulinews
- [6] Six players to leave Bayer Leverkusen before the transfer deadline – Bulinews