Bayer Leverkusen turn to Kasper Hjulmand as Erik ten Hag’s replacement after Postecoglou talks collapse

Bayer Leverkusen are moving swiftly to fill the managerial vacancy left by Erik ten Hag’s abrupt dismissal, with former Denmark national team coach Kasper Hjulmand emerging as the leading candidate.

The Bundesliga leaders parted company with Ten Hag after just two league matches of the 2025/26 campaign, citing a lack of conviction in his early performances. The Dutchman, who previously managed Ajax and Manchester United, had been appointed in the summer following Xabi Alonso’s departure to Real Madrid. However, his tenure proved short-lived, continuing a turbulent chapter in his coaching career.

Initial reports linked the club with Ange Postecoglou, who impressed at Celtic before enduring a mixed spell at Tottenham. Yet, according to Sky Deutschland, Leverkusen have shifted focus towards Hjulmand, who is currently without a club.

Hjulmand gained international recognition for guiding Denmark to the Euro 2020 semi-finals, though his four-year reign ended in 2024. His only previous experience in German football came with Mainz during the 2014/15 season, a tenure that lasted just six months. Despite that difficult spell, Leverkusen’s board believe his tactical acumen and calm leadership can restore stability to the squad.

Negotiations are ongoing, and while no agreement has been finalized, the club hopes to have Hjulmand in charge for Friday’s Bundesliga clash against Eintracht Frankfurt — a fixture that could mark the start of a new chapter at the BayArena.

Stay tuned to Betway Arabia for the latest updates and expert sports coverage from the world of football.