Overview

• German outlet Kicker, cited by UK media, reports Ten Hag is on the brink of dismissal, and the club has issued no public show of support.
• Leverkusen opened with a 2-1 home defeat to Hoffenheim, then let a 3-1 advantage slip in a 3-3 draw at 10-man Werder Bremen.
• Ten Hag said after the Bremen draw that his players are not yet ready or fit enough and that intensity must improve after the international break.
• Preseason featured a 5-1 loss to Flamengo’s under-20s and a mixed run of friendlies, followed by a 4-0 win in the DFB-Pokal first round.
• The Dutchman took charge in May after his October 2024 exit from Manchester United, and German reports describe internal criticism with a review of his position expected after the transfer window.