Erik Ten Hag Sacked by Bayer Leverkusen After Two Bundesliga Games

Erik ten Hag has been dismissed as head coach of Bayer Leverkusen after overseeing just two Bundesliga matches, marking one of the fastest sackings in Bundesliga history. Ten Hag expressed surprise and disappointment at the decision, criticizing the club for a lack of trust and insufficient time to build a cohesive team amid significant squad changes. Despite a 4-0 win in the DFB-Pokal, Leverkusen struggled in league play, drawing 3-3 with Werder Bremen and losing to Hoffenheim, leading to widespread criticism from German media outlets who questioned his credibility and fit with the club. The club's management deemed the dismissal necessary, citing problems both on and off the pitch, including a lack of clear sporting strategy and poor relationship with the squad. Ten Hag reflected on his career, noting his history of success when given time and trust, and thanked supporters for their passion. His departure follows a similar pattern after his previous sacking from Manchester United less than a year earlier, where he also issued a gracious farewell to fans.