Bayer Leverkusen managing director Fernando Carro has acknowledged that the club made an error in hiring Erik ten Hag but insists the decision to part ways with him after just two matches was necessary.
Ten Hag’s dismissal came quickly following defeats to Hoffenheim and Werder Bremen, ending his Bundesliga return almost as quickly as it began.
He was replaced by Kasper Hjulmand, the former Denmark national team coach, who guided Leverkusen to a 3-1 victory over Eintracht Frankfurt in his first game in charge.
Club explains decision
Speaking to German outlet Bild Sport, Carro was candid about the failed move: “I would clearly describe this as a mistake on our part.
“Nevertheless, such things can happen. Anyone who makes personnel decisions knows that. It’s annoying, but a normal matter that we handled professionally.”
Reports from Germany suggested frustration within the club’s hierarchy over Ten Hag’s attempts to push transfers involving players linked to his agency.
Beyond transfer disputes, his tactical approach and inability to lift morale inside the dressing room are believed to have further weakened his position.
Ten Hag defends short tenure
The Dutchman, however, attributed his early exit to the squad overhaul Leverkusen underwent during the summer transfer window.
With several key players departing and a number of arrivals still settling, Ten Hag argued that the challenges went beyond coaching.
Despite his defence, Carro maintained that the club could not afford to prolong what it considered a bad fit. “When a mistake is made, you have to react in a timely manner,” he added.
New chapter under Hjulmand
Leverkusen’s win under Hjulmand lifted morale after a turbulent start. Spanish left wing-back Alejandro Grimaldo emerged as the standout player, scoring two direct free kicks, while the side also overcame the setback of red cards to Robert Andrich and Equi Fernandez.
Attention now shifts to Europe, where Leverkusen will travel to Denmark for their Champions League opener against Copenhagen on September 18, with Hjulmand tasked to steady the squad and prove the club’s decision was justified.