Kasper Hjulmand takes over as new Bayer Leverkusen head coach, replacing Erik ten Hag. -AP
Bayer Leverkusen have appointed former Denmark manager Kasper Hjulmand as their new coach on a two-year contract following the dismissal of Erik ten Hag.
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Hjulmand, 53, guided Denmark to the semi-finals of Euro 2020, where they lost in extra time to England, and stepped down after their 2-0 defeat by Germany in the last 16 of Euro 2024, ending a four-year spell.
The Dane previously coached Mainz 05 in the 2014-15 Bundesliga season and has now returned to German top-flight football to take over last season's runners-up Leverkusen.
Ten Hag was sacked after two Bundesliga matches. The Dutchman, who had been out of management since his sacking by Manchester United in October, replaced Xabi Alonso in May, after the Spaniard left to take over at Real Madrid.
He managed only one victory in the three official matches, against lower league Grossaspach in the German Cup, while in the Bundesliga they lost against Hoffenheim and drew 3-3 at 10-man Werder Bremen after leading 3-3.
"We are delighted to have brought in Kasper Hjulmand," managing director sport Simon Rolfes said.
"He will now work with our team to re-establish a clear and proactive style of play. Kasper is the right man to develop our new Werkself side into a top team that will strive to achieve the most ambitious national and international goals.
Hjulmand said: "It's an honour to be entrusted with a team like this. After outstanding successes in the past, I am now very motivated to help shape the future of Bayer 04 Leverkusen with both established and exciting new players."
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