- Ten Hag faces early doubts after 2-1 defeat to Hoffenheim
- Tactical choices and lack of pressing criticised internally
- Leverkusen spent heavily after losing several key players
According to a report from German publication Kicker doubts are emerging within the club hierarchy following a sobering 2-1 opening day Bundesliga defeat to Hoffenheim. The team reportedly lacked a clear game plan, with central elements of Ten Hag’s philosophy, such as pressing and counter-pressing, being completely absent.
The concerns reportedly extend beyond the on-pitch performance, with criticism aimed at Ten Hag’s match preparation and team speeches – areas where his celebrated predecessor, Xabi Alonso, excelled. The Dutchman’s in-game tactical adjustments have also caused surprise, specifically the decision to move new signing Aleix Garcia from his natural central midfield role to the right wing, a switch that seemingly weakened the team’s structure and nullified the player’s strengths.
Leverkusen underwent a major squad overhaul in the summer, losing four pillars of their recent title-winning side: Florian Wirtz, Granit Xhaka, Lukas Hradecky, and Jonathan Tah. Despite this, the club have invested heavily, signing Malik Tillman, Jarell Quansah, Loic Bade and Lucas Vazquez, among others. Ten Hag’s public call for “four to five” more new signings during pre-season was reportedly not well-received internally.
The Dutch coach is under immediate pressure to deliver a much-improved performance in Leverkusen’s next fixture against Werder Bremen. With squad turnover high and expectations raised after recent investment, results in the coming weeks could determine how long the club maintains patience with their new coach.
