Bayer Leverkusen are moving quickly in their search for a new head coach following the departure of Erik ten Hag after just 2 games in charge. The club want an appointment confirmed by Tuesday so the new man can take charge of training before next Friday’s Bundesliga clash with Eintracht Frankfurt.
Softfootball understands that if no deal is completed in time, assistants Andries Ulderink and Rogier Meijer are expected to oversee preparations.
German transfer journalist Florian Plettenberg, reported that Kasper Hjulmand is currently leading the race. Writing on his official X account, he stated:
Kasper Hjulmand is currently the top favourite to become the new head coach of Bayer 04 Leverkusen!
Talks are advanced, and the new coach is expected to be presented next week.
The 53-year-old Dane is currently without a club and is set to succeed Erik ten Hag, provided nothing extraordinary happens.
Leverkusen’s criteria for the role have narrowed the shortlist considerably. The club are keen on a coach who can continue with the 3-4-2-1 system preferred by former boss Xabi Alonso. Bundesliga experience is also considered an advantage.
That requirement has ruled out several names, including Marco Rose, Roger Schmidt, and former Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou. Raul, Claudio Giraldez, and Inigo Perez are also understood to be out of the running.
Hjulmand, who previously managed the Denmark national team, ticks several boxes. Known for his tactical discipline and ability to organise sides effectively, he also speaks fluent Spanish, a quality reportedly valued by Leverkusen’s board.
With the deadline approaching, all signs point to Hjulmand being unveiled early next week, barring any last-minute surprises.
