Kasper Hjulmand Appointed as Bayer Leverkusen’s New Coach

Following the termination of Erik ten Hag’s contract, Bayer Leverkusen has officially announced the appointment of Kasper Hjulmand, the former coach of Denmark’s national team, as their new head coach. The agreement is a two-year contract.

Hjulmand, aged 53, previously led Denmark to the Euro 2020 semi-finals, where they were defeated by England in extra time. His four-year tenure concluded after a 2-0 defeat against Germany in the Euro 2024’s last 16.

The Danish coach, who formerly managed Mainz 05 during the 2014-15 Bundesliga season, is making his return to German football to take the helm at Leverkusen, last season’s runner-up.

Hjulmand stated, “I’ve consistently held Bayer Leverkusen in high regard as a well-managed, structured, and ambitious club. Recent discussions have reinforced this view.”

“Being entrusted with such a squad is an honor. This task is a great motivator for me. Building on past achievements, I am keen to shape Bayer Leverkusen’s future alongside both seasoned and promising new players.”

Ten Hag’s dismissal occurred after only a couple of Bundesliga matches. The Dutchman, who had been without a managerial role since his departure from Manchester United in October, succeeded Xabi Alonso in May, following Alonso’s move to Real Madrid.

Alonso had guided Leverkusen to a double triumph in the 2023-24 season, securing their first-ever Bundesliga title and their second German Cup without a single defeat.

Hjulmand now faces the challenge of replicating Alonso’s success. However, this task is complicated by the departures of significant players during the off-season, including Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong, Jonathan Tah, and Granit Xhaka.

In response to these departures, Leverkusen has invested around 170 million euros ($199.80 million) in rebuilding their team, acquiring players such as Ibrahim Maza, Malik Tillman, Jarell Quansah, Loic Bade, and Mark Flekken.

Leverkusen CEO Fernando Carro noted, “A developing squad like ours requires clear leadership. Kasper’s open, communicative, and understanding approach will be beneficial.”

Leverkusen will resume their league matches at home against Eintracht Frankfurt, followed by a visit to Copenhagen on September 18 for their Champions League debut.