Bayer Leverkusen have confirmed the appointment of Danish coach Kasper Hjulmand as their new manager on a deal running until 2027. The 53-year-old replaces Erik ten Hag, who was dismissed after just two Bundesliga matches in charge.
“It is an honour to be entrusted with such a team,” Hjulmand said in a club statement. “I’m motivated to shape the future of the club.”
The move comes at the end of a turbulent fortnight for the German champions. Ten Hag, who had only arrived on September 1 to replace Xabi Alonso following his move to Real Madrid, managed just one point from his opening two league fixtures. Leverkusen sporting director Simon Rolfes admitted the club made a mistake in hiring Ten Hag, stating that allowing him to continue “would have been an even bigger mistake.”
Ten Hag, however, described his dismissal as “unprecedented” and “a complete surprise” in his own statement.
Hjulmand, who resigned as Denmark’s head coach in July 2024, boasts international pedigree. He guided the Danes to the Euro 2020 semi-finals, where they lost narrowly to England, and steered them to the round of 16 at Euro 2024, eliminated by hosts Germany. Domestically, he is best remembered for delivering FC Nordsjaelland’s only Danish Superliga title in 2011–12.
Though his only previous Bundesliga spell — with Mainz in 2014–15 — ended after a difficult run of one win in 13 matches, Leverkusen believe his tactical vision and leadership will drive the club forward.
Hjulmand will take charge of Leverkusen’s home clash against Eintracht Frankfurt on Friday, before beginning their Champions League campaign with a trip to Danish champions Copenhagen.
He was chosen from a shortlist that also included Xavi, Ange Postecoglou, and Raul. According to Rolfes, the Dane will be tasked with implementing “a clear and dominant style of play” while targeting ambitious domestic and international success.
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