Erik ten Hag, after his dismissal as Manchester United manager in 2024, was appointed as head coach of Bundesliga club Bayer Leverkusen ahead of the 2025–26 season[4]. However, his tenure at Leverkusen has quickly turned controversial and unstable.
Reports from Germany indicate that Ten Hag is on the verge of being sacked after just three competitive games in charge, following a disappointing start to the season[1][3]. Notably, Leverkusen’s core squad has been significantly weakened over the summer with the departure of key players such as Lukas Hradecky, Jonathan Tah, Jeremie Frimpong, Granit Xhaka, and Florian Wirtz[1]. This has resulted in poor performances, including a recent 3–3 draw with Werder Bremen and a defeat to Hoffenheim[1].
Some outlets claim Ten Hag has already been dismissed after only two games[5], while others report that the club’s management is meeting to decide his future, suggesting an imminent decision by Monday[3]. The situation remains fluid, with his continued presence at Leverkusen highly doubtful as of September 2025[3].
Previously, Manchester United’s decision to sack Ten Hag resulted in a compensation package of £14.5 million for him, his coaching team, and sporting director Dan Ashworth[2]. This payout added to a year marked by the club’s worst-ever Premier League finish and a significant drop in revenue[2].
Despite mixed reports, it is clear that Erik ten Hag’s recent managerial appointments have been marked by rapid turnovers and significant organizational challenges both for Manchester United and Bayer Leverkusen[6][7].
References
- [1] Erik Ten Hag ‘On Verge’ of Sack Three Games Into First Post-Man Utd Job
- [2] Man United revenue down as Erik ten Hag sack cost revealed – ESPN
- [3] Ten Hag to be sacked by Leverkusen today?
- [4] Erik ten Hag – Wikipedia
- [5] 🚨 𝗕𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗞𝗜𝗡𝗚: Erik ten Hag has been sacked after 2 games!
- [6] Erik ten Hag – latest news, breaking stories and comment
- [7] Erik ten Hag news | Breaking News & Top Stories | NewsNow