Bayer Leverkusen dismisses Erik ten Hag after three games and targets Ange Postecoglou as replacement

Bayer Leverkusen has made a shock decision by sacking Erik ten Hag after just three matches in charge, the shortest managerial spell in Bundesliga history. The German club is now already looking at options to replace him, and according to Fabrizio Romano, Ange Postecoglou is high on the list.

Postecoglou emerges as favorite

The 60-year-old Australian coach, who guided Tottenham to the Europa League title last season, is available after leaving Spurs due to a poor domestic campaign. His free-agent status makes him an attractive target, but Bayer could face competition from Fenerbahçe, who also see him as an option following José Mourinho’s dismissal.

Another candidate under consideration is Matthias Jaissle, currently at Al-Ahli, though Postecoglou’s profile fits Bayer’s attacking philosophy.

What Postecoglou would bring to Bayer

Known for his bold, possession-based style, Postecoglou builds from the back with short passes and inverted full-backs, turning midfield into a dynamic hub. His teams also press high and look to score more than they concede often preferring a 3-2 win over a 1-0 result.

This high-risk, high-reward football made him popular at Celtic and with the Australian national team, and it could align with Bayer’s recent attacking traditions.

Why Ten Hag was dismissed so quickly

Ten Hag’s exit comes after a string of poor performances. In preseason, Leverkusen suffered a heavy 5-1 defeat to Flamengo’s U-20 team, raising early doubts. The first Bundesliga rounds failed to show improvement, leading the board to act swiftly.

Now, with Postecoglou available, Bayer Leverkusen hopes to quickly stabilize and resume the progress that defined their last seasons.