Erik ten Hag has admitted he was shocked by Bayer Leverkusen’s decision to sack him after just two Bundesliga games in charge.

The Dutchman, who was only appointed on July 1, was relieved of his duties on Monday following a poor start to the season.

In total, Ten Hag oversaw three matches: a German Cup win over SG Sonnenhof Grossaspach, a 2-1 league defeat to Hoffenheim, and a dramatic 3-3 draw against Werder Bremen.

“The decision by Bayer Leverkusen’s management this morning to put me on a leave of absence came as a complete surprise,” Ten Hag said.
“To part ways with a coach after just two league matches is unprecedented.”

He also blamed the club’s transfer decisions for their struggles, accusing Leverkusen of selling key players and not giving him sufficient time to implement his ideas with the squad.