Leverkusen Revival: Ten Hag’s Exit Brings Back ‘Good Vibes’ and Clarity, Says Rolfes
Bayer Leverkusen’s sporting director Simon Rolfes has made it clear that the club has no regrets over parting ways with Erik ten Hag, just weeks into his short-lived tenure. In the wake of a 2-1 friendly win over Viktoria Köln, Rolfes aimed a thinly veiled dig at the Dutch coach, suggesting that a “good atmosphere” had returned to the squad and players now “know what they’re supposed to do” on the pitch.
Ten Hag, who took charge following Xabi Alonso’s departure to Real Madrid, was seen as a high-risk but high-reward appointment. However, after a strong start in the DFB-Pokal, the former Manchester United and Ajax boss oversaw a league draw and loss, leading to his swift dismissal just three games into the season. Rolfes didn’t mince words, calling the appointment a mistake and emphasizing the team’s disjointed nature under Ten Hag.
The Bundesliga champions had undergone a massive summer overhaul, losing key players including Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong, and Granit Xhaka without adequately strengthening the squad. Ten Hag was left with a squad in transition—and according to Rolfes, completely lacked structure.
In contrast, interim coaches Rogier Meijer and Andries Ulderink seem to have quickly restored order. “We had a good structure, good routines,” Rolfes said post-match. “The boys knew what to do.” He also praised the leadership of new arrivals Lucas Vázquez and Loïc Badé, and highlighted the encouraging form of young midfielder Equi Fernández.
The message from the Leverkusen hierarchy is clear: Ten Hag’s departure has rejuvenated the dressing room,
