

The Dutch tactician, standing firm in the eye of the storm, reminded fans and critics alike that building a legacy takes time, even if the sting of defeat makes every second feel like an eternity. This loss has cast a shadow over Bayer Leverkusen’s opening to the 2025/26 season, leaving supporters yearning for the glory days.
'This doesn’t come as a surprise,' Ten Hag was quick to underline that football miracles don’t manifest overnight, Ten Hag knows all too well the uphill battle he faces with this squad.
Leverkusen’s squad has been gutted since their historic Bundesliga title and German Cup triumph in 2024, with a staggering 15 players waving goodbye. The departure of Xabi Alonso to Real Madrid this summer was just the tip of the iceberg. Fan favorites and key pillars like Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong, Granit Xhaka, Jonathan Tah, and Amine Adli have all moved.